24239, Davenport, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 24239, Davenport, Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Hotspots: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24239

Finding the right hospital for managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, requires more than just proximity. It demands a deep understanding of a facility’s capabilities, from its specialized cardiology units to its commitment to telehealth and patient outcomes. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 24239, offering a fact-rich analysis to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Defining the Scope: Geographic Considerations**

ZIP code 24239, encompassing the town of Clintwood, Virginia, sits in a rural area. Hospital options are therefore more limited than in a major metropolitan center. This review will prioritize hospitals within a roughly 50-mile radius, acknowledging that travel time and access to care are crucial considerations for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Overview**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, provide a readily accessible snapshot of a hospital's overall performance. It's important to remember that star ratings are just one piece of the puzzle, and should be considered alongside other factors.

Unfortunately, within the immediate vicinity of 24239, the availability of hospitals with publicly available CMS star ratings is limited. This underscores the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. However, we will explore the available data and consider hospitals that may not have star ratings but offer vital services.

**Holston Valley Medical Center: A Regional Hub**

Holston Valley Medical Center, located in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a significant regional hospital that serves a wide area, including patients from the 24239 ZIP code. Holston Valley is part of Ballad Health, a large integrated healthcare system. Ballad Health has a network of hospitals and clinics, and the system is committed to improving health outcomes.

Holston Valley Medical Center features a comprehensive cardiology program, crucial for hypertension management. This includes access to cardiologists, specialized cardiac testing, and interventional procedures. The hospital also offers a robust emergency department, which is important for managing hypertensive crises. While specific CMS star ratings for Holston Valley may vary, the hospital's commitment to quality and its regional presence make it a key consideration for residents of 24239.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a vital indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle urgent medical needs. For individuals experiencing a hypertensive emergency, rapid access to care can be life-saving.

Unfortunately, publicly available data on real-time ER wait times is often limited. However, resources like the Hospital Compare website (maintained by CMS) and local hospital websites may provide some historical data. It's advisable to call the hospital's ER directly to inquire about current wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Beyond general cardiology, specialized centers can offer advanced care for complex hypertension cases. These centers often have teams of specialists, including cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists), endocrinologists (hormone specialists), and other healthcare professionals.

Holston Valley Medical Center, as a regional hub, likely offers access to a range of specialists. It's essential to inquire about the availability of these specialists and their expertise in managing resistant hypertension or hypertension complicated by other conditions.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Remote monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs can help patients manage their hypertension effectively from home.

Ballad Health, which includes Holston Valley Medical Center, has invested in telehealth services. Inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with cardiologists, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and other virtual care options. These services can improve access to care, reduce the need for frequent hospital visits, and empower patients to take control of their health.

**Patient Satisfaction and Outcomes: Gauging Quality**

Patient satisfaction surveys and outcome data provide valuable insights into a hospital's performance. Resources like the Hospital Compare website and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) offer data on patient experience and clinical outcomes.

Look for hospitals with positive ratings on patient satisfaction surveys, particularly regarding communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and overall hospital environment. Also, review data on outcomes for heart conditions, such as readmission rates and mortality rates, to assess the hospital's effectiveness in managing hypertension and related complications.

**Other Hospitals to Consider: Exploring the Landscape**

While Holston Valley Medical Center is a primary focus, other hospitals within the 50-mile radius of 24239 may offer valuable services. These hospitals may be smaller or have a more limited scope of services, but they can still play a crucial role in providing care.

* **Dickenson County Medical Center:** Located in Clintwood, VA, this hospital is the closest to the 24239 ZIP code. It is a critical access hospital and may have limited services.
* **Mountain View Regional Medical Center:** Located in Norton, VA, this hospital may offer some cardiology services.

**Navigating the Healthcare System: Key Considerations**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Physician Referrals:** Ask your primary care physician for recommendations and referrals to cardiologists or other specialists.
* **Hospital Websites:** Visit hospital websites for information on services, physician directories, and patient resources.
* **Hospital Tours:** If possible, consider visiting hospitals to assess the environment and meet with staff.
* **Patient Advocacy:** If you encounter challenges, consider seeking assistance from a patient advocate or hospital ombudsman.

**The Importance of Proactive Hypertension Management**

Managing hypertension is an ongoing process. Regular blood pressure monitoring, lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, stress management), and medication adherence are essential. Partnering with a healthcare provider who understands your individual needs is crucial.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management near 24239 requires careful consideration of factors like cardiology services, ER wait times, telehealth options, and patient outcomes. While the availability of hospitals with comprehensive data may be limited in this rural area, researching the available options, understanding your insurance coverage, and actively engaging with your healthcare providers are essential steps in ensuring optimal care. Holston Valley Medical Center stands out as a regional hub with a comprehensive cardiology program, but exploring other nearby facilities and utilizing telehealth resources can further enhance your access to care and empower you to take control of your health.