24277, Pennington Gap, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 24277, Pennington Gap, Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven or Healthcare Headache? A Look at Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24277

Finding the right hospital can be a life-or-death decision, especially when dealing with a condition like hypertension, which demands consistent, quality care. For residents near ZIP code 24277 (Richlands, Virginia, and surrounding areas), the landscape of healthcare options presents a mixed bag. This review delves into the key players, their strengths, weaknesses, and the data points that matter most for managing hypertension.

**The Regional Heavyweights: UVA Wise Hospital and Johnston Memorial Hospital**

The closest major medical facilities to 24277 are UVA Wise Hospital in Wise, Virginia, and Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, Virginia. Both serve as critical access points for the region, but their approaches to hypertension management and overall care differ.

UVA Wise Hospital, a part of the University of Virginia Health System, offers a comprehensive range of services. While specific hypertension program details aren't readily available in public-facing documents, its affiliation with a major university health system suggests access to evidence-based practices and potential for participation in clinical trials. The hospital's CMS star rating is a crucial indicator of overall quality. As of the latest available data, UVA Wise Hospital's star rating is a 3-star rating. This indicates an average performance in various areas, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Johnston Memorial Hospital, part of Ballad Health, is another significant player in the region. Ballad Health, a large regional health system, often emphasizes a commitment to community health. Johnston Memorial Hospital's approach to hypertension management may include a focus on preventative care, patient education, and medication management. The hospital's CMS star rating is a 2-star rating. This indicates a below-average performance in various areas, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Realities: Wait Times and Access**

For individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis, timely access to emergency care is paramount. ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital suitability. Unfortunately, specific, real-time ER wait times for UVA Wise Hospital and Johnston Memorial Hospital are not consistently available on public platforms. However, general trends can be observed. Smaller, rural hospitals often experience shorter wait times than larger, urban facilities. It's advisable to check with the hospitals directly or consult online resources like Google or Healthgrades for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Expertise**

The presence of specialized cardiology centers and endocrinology departments is critical for comprehensive hypertension management. UVA Wise Hospital, as part of a university health system, may have a more developed cardiology department with access to specialized procedures and a broader range of expertise. Johnston Memorial Hospital, while also offering cardiology services, may have a more limited scope. It's crucial to inquire about the specific expertise of cardiologists and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like echocardiograms and stress tests.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be challenging. Both UVA Wise Hospital and Johnston Memorial Hospital likely offer some telehealth services, but the extent of their offerings may vary. Telehealth can be invaluable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education related to hypertension. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options with their primary care physicians and specialists.

**Beyond the Basics: Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a vital component of overall healthcare quality. Online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the hospital's culture and the quality of care provided. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's own website often feature patient reviews. These reviews can highlight strengths and weaknesses in areas like communication, empathy, and the overall patient experience.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Access**

Effective hypertension management relies heavily on medication adherence. The hospital's pharmacy services and the availability of convenient prescription refills are essential considerations. Both UVA Wise Hospital and Johnston Memorial Hospital likely have on-site pharmacies, but the range of medications and the ease of access may vary. Patients should inquire about the hospital's pharmacy services and the process for obtaining refills.

**Preventative Care and Community Outreach**

Hospitals that prioritize preventative care and community outreach often demonstrate a commitment to improving overall health outcomes. Look for hospitals that offer health screenings, educational programs, and support groups related to hypertension. These initiatives can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition.

**The Bottom Line: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management near ZIP code 24277 requires careful consideration of several factors. UVA Wise Hospital, with its affiliation with a major university health system, may offer access to advanced resources and specialized expertise. Johnston Memorial Hospital, as a regional provider, may provide convenient access and a focus on community health.

The CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center capabilities, telehealth offerings, patient reviews, and medication management services are all critical factors to consider. Patients should actively research the hospitals, ask questions, and seek referrals from their primary care physicians to make informed decisions. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the most convenient access, and the best support for managing hypertension and improving overall health outcomes. It is recommended that patients contact the hospitals directly for the most up-to-date information on services, wait times, and specific programs related to hypertension management.