05735, Castleton, Vermont Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 05735, Castleton, Vermont is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare for High Blood Pressure Near ZIP Code 05735

Living with hypertension requires diligent management, and access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 05735 (Killington, Vermont) to assess their suitability for patients needing hypertension care. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, providing a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of Killington, VT, presents a limited selection of hospitals. The closest full-service hospital is **Rutland Regional Medical Center**, located in Rutland, VT, roughly a 30-minute drive. This hospital will be the primary focus of our review, as it serves as the central hub for healthcare in the region. Other options, such as smaller critical access hospitals or urgent care clinics, may offer limited services for hypertension management, but Rutland Regional is the core.

**Rutland Regional Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) is a significant player in the healthcare landscape of central Vermont. It's a non-profit community hospital, offering a wide array of services.

**CMS Star Rating:** RRMC holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, considering factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered "average," it's crucial to understand the nuances. CMS ratings are a snapshot and should be considered alongside other data points.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical concern for any patient, especially those experiencing a hypertensive crisis. RRMC's ER wait times fluctuate, but data from recent years indicates an average wait time that can range from 30 minutes to an hour. It is important to note that these are averages and can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of other patients' conditions. Patients experiencing severe symptoms should not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. The hospital's website and third-party platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals provide up-to-date ER wait time information.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension-Related Services:** RRMC offers several specialty centers that are relevant to hypertension management. The **Cardiology Department** is the most critical. This department provides comprehensive care for cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension. Services include diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation. The hospital also has a **Diabetes and Endocrinology Center**, which is relevant because hypertension often coexists with diabetes and other endocrine disorders. This center provides specialized care for managing these conditions, which can significantly impact blood pressure control.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. RRMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth appointments are available for some cardiology and endocrinology follow-up visits, medication management, and patient education. This allows patients to receive care remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly beneficial for those living in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The hospital's website and patient portal provide information on available telehealth services and how to schedule appointments.

**Hospital Affiliations and Network:** RRMC is affiliated with several healthcare networks, which can influence patient access to specialists and resources. It is part of the **University of Vermont Health Network**, which gives patients access to a broader network of specialists and advanced medical services. This affiliation can be particularly beneficial for complex cases or when specialized expertise is required.

**Other Healthcare Providers in the Area:**

Beyond RRMC, residents of the 05735 ZIP code have access to other healthcare providers. Several primary care physicians and internal medicine specialists in the Rutland area offer hypertension management services. These physicians can provide ongoing care, medication management, and referrals to specialists when needed. Local clinics and urgent care centers may also offer blood pressure screenings and initial assessments, but they are typically not equipped to handle complex cases or provide comprehensive hypertension management.

**Assessing the Quality of Hypertension Care:**

Evaluating the quality of hypertension care involves several factors. The hospital's commitment to evidence-based practices is crucial. This includes using current guidelines for hypertension diagnosis and treatment, such as those from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. The hospital's adherence to these guidelines can be assessed through its participation in quality improvement programs and its performance on relevant clinical measures.

**Patient Satisfaction and Experience:** Patient satisfaction is another important indicator of quality. RRMC's patient satisfaction scores, as reported by CMS and other platforms, offer insight into patients' experiences with the hospital's care. These scores reflect patient perceptions of communication with doctors and nurses, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall hospital environment.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Services:** Effective hypertension management relies heavily on medication adherence. RRMC has an on-site pharmacy that can provide patients with the medications they need. The hospital's pharmacy services include medication counseling and assistance with managing prescriptions.

**Additional Considerations:**

* **Access to Specialists:** Patients with uncontrolled hypertension or complex cases may require consultation with specialists, such as cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists), or endocrinologists. The availability of these specialists at RRMC and within the University of Vermont Health Network is a key consideration.
* **Patient Education:** Effective hypertension management requires patient education. RRMC offers patient education programs and resources on topics such as lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring of blood pressure.
* **Cost and Insurance Coverage:** The cost of healthcare and insurance coverage are significant factors. Patients should understand their insurance coverage for hypertension-related services and the hospital's billing practices.
* **Community Resources:** Local community resources, such as support groups and wellness programs, can provide additional support for patients with hypertension.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the 05735 ZIP code, Rutland Regional Medical Center is the primary hospital option for hypertension care. While the hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, it offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, endocrinology, and telehealth capabilities. Patients should consider the hospital's ER wait times, patient satisfaction scores, and access to specialists when making healthcare decisions. Patients should also consult with their primary care physicians and seek specialist referrals as needed. While the options are limited in the immediate vicinity, RRMC provides a solid foundation for managing hypertension in the Killington, VT area. Staying informed, actively participating in your care, and utilizing available resources will be crucial for successful hypertension management.