24350, Ivanhoe, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 24350, Ivanhoe, Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare for High Blood Pressure Near ZIP Code 24350**

Living with hypertension requires diligent management, and access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review examines the landscape of hospitals near ZIP code 24350, focusing on factors critical for hypertension patients: cardiology expertise, emergency care, telehealth options, and overall hospital performance. The goal is to provide a fact-rich assessment to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**Defining the Scope: Hospitals in the Vicinity**

The area surrounding ZIP code 24350, which encompasses Marion, Virginia, and its surrounding communities, presents a range of healthcare options. This review concentrates on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering accessibility for routine appointments and emergency situations. Primary focus will be on facilities offering comprehensive cardiovascular services.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**1. Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon, VA)**

Johnston Memorial Hospital (JMH), located approximately 25 miles from Marion, VA, is a key player in the region. JMH is part of Ballad Health, a large health system serving Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. It's a regional hub with a strong emphasis on cardiovascular care.

* **Cardiology Services:** JMH boasts a robust cardiology department. They offer a full spectrum of services, including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation programs. They have a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab.
* **CMS Star Rating:** JMH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it indicates an average level of performance across various quality metrics.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** The ED at JMH is equipped to handle cardiac emergencies. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's essential to consider them when facing a potential hypertensive crisis or related chest pain. Ballad Health provides online wait time information.
* **Telehealth:** Ballad Health has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits with specialists. This is particularly valuable for follow-up appointments and medication management for hypertension patients. The availability of telehealth can vary by specialist and insurance coverage.
* **Specialty Centers:** JMH has centers for heart and vascular care.

**2. Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN)**

Bristol Regional Medical Center (BRMC), also part of Ballad Health, is another significant option, located approximately 40 miles from Marion. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced cardiac care.

* **Cardiology Services:** BRMC provides advanced cardiology services, including electrophysiology (for treating arrhythmias), cardiac surgery, and a dedicated heart failure clinic. They offer a wide range of diagnostic and interventional procedures.
* **CMS Star Rating:** BRMC has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** The ED at BRMC is equipped to handle cardiac emergencies, with 24/7 availability of cardiologists. Wait times should be considered when seeking emergency care.
* **Telehealth:** Ballad Health's telehealth services are available at BRMC, providing access to specialists and virtual consultations.
* **Specialty Centers:** BRMC has a comprehensive heart and vascular institute.

**3. Wythe County Community Hospital (Wytheville, VA)**

Wythe County Community Hospital (WCCH) is located approximately 35 miles from Marion. It is part of Mountain States Health Alliance.

* **Cardiology Services:** WCCH provides basic cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and some outpatient cardiac care. However, it may not offer the same level of advanced interventional procedures as JMH or BRMC.
* **CMS Star Rating:** WCCH has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** WCCH's ED is available for cardiac emergencies.
* **Telehealth:** WCCH has limited telehealth services.

**4. Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN)**

Holston Valley Medical Center, also part of Ballad Health, is located approximately 50 miles from Marion.

* **Cardiology Services:** Holston Valley Medical Center offers comprehensive cardiology services, including diagnostic testing, interventional cardiology, and cardiac surgery. It has a dedicated heart and vascular institute.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Holston Valley Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Department (ED):** The ED at Holston Valley Medical Center is equipped to handle cardiac emergencies. Wait times can vary.
* **Telehealth:** Ballad Health's telehealth services are available.
* **Specialty Centers:** Holston Valley Medical Center has a comprehensive heart and vascular institute.

**Emergency Department Considerations: Navigating Critical Situations**

When facing a hypertensive crisis or other cardiac emergencies, timely access to emergency care is crucial. ER wait times are a critical factor. Patients should be aware of the typical wait times at each hospital. Online resources and hospital websites often provide this information. However, it's important to remember that wait times can fluctuate based on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth offers significant advantages for hypertension management. Virtual appointments allow for convenient follow-up visits, medication adjustments, and remote monitoring of blood pressure readings. The availability of telehealth services varies by hospital and specialist. Patients should inquire about telehealth options with their primary care physicians and cardiologists.

**Specialty Centers: Focusing on Cardiovascular Care**

Hospitals with dedicated heart and vascular centers often provide a higher level of specialized care. These centers typically have multidisciplinary teams of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. They often offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator of Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital performance based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the sole determinant of quality, these ratings can be a helpful starting point for evaluating hospitals.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital: The Role of Primary Care**

Effective hypertension management requires a strong partnership between the patient and their healthcare providers. Regular check-ups with a primary care physician are essential for monitoring blood pressure, adjusting medications, and addressing any underlying health conditions.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

For residents near ZIP code 24350, the choice of hospital for hypertension care depends on individual needs and preferences. Johnston Memorial Hospital and Bristol Regional Medical Center, both part of Ballad Health, offer comprehensive cardiology services and robust emergency care. Wythe County Community Hospital provides basic cardiology services. Holston Valley Medical Center offers comprehensive cardiology services. Patients should consider factors such as proximity, access to specialists, telehealth options, and CMS star ratings when making their decisions. Consulting with a primary care physician and cardiologist is essential for developing a personalized hypertension management plan.