24266, Lebanon, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 24266, Lebanon, Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 24266

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 24266 (Lebanon, Virginia, and surrounding areas), evaluating them based on factors relevant to hypertension care, including quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in and around Lebanon, Virginia, is primarily shaped by a mix of regional and community hospitals. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Roanoke offers access to more specialized facilities, but travel time and accessibility are key considerations. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging the importance of timely access to care, especially during hypertensive crises.

**Key Considerations for Hypertension Care:**

Effective hypertension management involves several key components. These include accurate diagnosis, consistent monitoring, access to medication and lifestyle interventions, and the ability to respond quickly to emergencies. Hospitals are assessed based on their capacity to deliver these services, with a focus on metrics that reflect quality of care and patient experience.

**Flagship Hospital: Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon, VA)**

Johnston Memorial Hospital, located in Abingdon, VA, is the closest regional medical center to ZIP code 24266. It is a member of Ballad Health. As of the most recent data, Johnston Memorial Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

**Emergency Department Performance:**

ER wait times are critical for patients experiencing hypertensive emergencies. While specific, publicly available ER wait time data for Johnston Memorial Hospital fluctuates, it's advisable to check the hospital's website or third-party websites like [Insert Website Here - e.g., Healthgrades] for the most current information. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency response system, crucial for managing acute hypertension.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management:**

Johnston Memorial Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology. Access to a cardiology department is essential for comprehensive hypertension management, as cardiologists can diagnose and treat complex cases. The hospital’s website should be consulted for information on the specific cardiology services offered, including availability of specialized hypertension clinics or programs.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for chronic disease management. Johnston Memorial Hospital likely offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists. These services can be particularly beneficial for hypertension patients, allowing for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling. Information on telehealth availability can be found on the hospital's website or by contacting their patient services department.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

While Johnston Memorial Hospital is the primary regional medical center, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may offer alternative options. These include smaller community hospitals and potentially facilities in nearby cities like Bristol or Roanoke. The following are some of the hospitals in the area:

**Norton Community Hospital (Norton, VA):**

Norton Community Hospital is another option for residents near ZIP code 24266. As a smaller community hospital, it may offer a different level of care and wait times compared to a larger regional center. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be researched on their website or third-party websites like [Insert Website Here - e.g., Healthgrades].

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN):**

Bristol Regional Medical Center is located in Bristol, Tennessee, and is another Ballad Health member. While technically in Tennessee, it is within a reasonable driving distance for some residents of the 24266 ZIP code. Information on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and specialty services should be researched on their website or third-party websites like [Insert Website Here - e.g., Healthgrades].

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific metrics, several factors should influence the choice of a hospital for hypertension care. These include:

* **Proximity:** Travel time is a significant factor, especially in emergencies.
* **Physician Network:** Access to a primary care physician and cardiologist is essential.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its physicians are within your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can provide insights into patient experiences.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission signifies a commitment to quality.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend:**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows patients to monitor their blood pressure at home, communicate with their doctors remotely, and receive medication management and lifestyle counseling.

**Telehealth Stats and Availability:**

The availability and utilization of telehealth services vary by hospital. Johnston Memorial Hospital and other hospitals in the area likely offer telehealth options. The specifics, such as the types of telehealth services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the platform used, and the cost, can be found on the hospital's website or by contacting their patient services department.

**Telehealth Benefits for Hypertension:**

Telehealth can improve hypertension management in several ways:

* **Increased Access to Care:** Telehealth removes geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to access specialists.
* **Improved Medication Adherence:** Remote monitoring and medication reminders can help patients take their medications as prescribed.
* **Enhanced Patient Education:** Telehealth platforms can provide educational resources and support groups.
* **Early Intervention:** Remote monitoring can detect changes in blood pressure, prompting timely intervention.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric:**

ER wait times are a key indicator of a hospital's ability to respond to emergencies, including hypertensive crises. Shorter wait times generally mean a more efficient system, which can be crucial in managing acute hypertension. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often updated on hospital websites or third-party websites.

**Specialty Centers: Cardiology and Beyond:**

Access to specialized cardiology services is essential for comprehensive hypertension care. Cardiologists can diagnose and treat complex cases, perform diagnostic tests, and provide ongoing management. The availability of specialized hypertension clinics or programs can be a significant advantage.

**Navigating the Healthcare System:**

Choosing the right hospital and navigating the healthcare system can be challenging. Patients should proactively research their options, considering the factors outlined above. They should also communicate openly with their primary care physician and specialists, seeking guidance and support.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care near ZIP code 24266 requires careful consideration of several factors. Johnston Memorial Hospital, as the primary regional medical center, offers a range of services, but patients should also consider other options based on their individual needs and preferences. By researching CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, patients can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the best possible care for managing their hypertension. Regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are essential for managing hypertension effectively, and a strong partnership with a healthcare provider is crucial for achieving optimal health outcomes.