26347, Flemington, West Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 26347, Flemington, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26347**

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires access to reliable and accessible medical facilities. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 26347 (Grafton, West Virginia), evaluating their capabilities in hypertension management, including factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Regional Overview and Considerations**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Grafton, WV, is primarily influenced by the presence of regional medical centers and their associated networks. Proximity to larger cities like Morgantown and Clarksburg broadens the options, but travel time and accessibility remain crucial considerations, especially during a hypertensive crisis. Rural areas often face challenges in healthcare access, including physician shortages and limited specialized services.

**Hospital Profiles: Key Facilities and Their Offerings**

**United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV):** Located approximately 20 miles from Grafton, United Hospital Center (UHC) is a major regional player. UHC boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a generally good performance in various quality metrics. While not specifically a hypertension center, UHC provides comprehensive cardiovascular services, including cardiology consultations, diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms), and interventional procedures. Emergency room wait times at UHC fluctuate, but data suggests an average wait time that can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day and patient volume. Telehealth services are available, offering remote consultations with specialists, potentially easing access for those in rural areas. Data indicates that UHC has seen an increase in telehealth utilization in the past year, particularly for follow-up appointments.

**Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV):** Situated about 40 miles from Grafton, Mon Health Medical Center is another significant option. Mon Health has a three-star CMS rating. The hospital features a robust cardiology department, including specialists in hypertension management. Diagnostic capabilities include advanced imaging and cardiac catheterization. ER wait times at Mon Health are often comparable to UHC, with averages fluctuating between 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Telehealth services are available, though specific data on hypertension-related telehealth utilization is not readily available.

**Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (Weston, WV):** Located approximately 25 miles south of Grafton, Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital provides a more local option. This hospital has a three-star CMS rating. It offers general medical services and a focus on community health. While it may not have the same level of specialized cardiology resources as UHC or Mon Health, it can provide initial assessments and stabilization for hypertensive patients. ER wait times at Stonewall Jackson are generally shorter than the larger hospitals, often averaging around 30-45 minutes. Telehealth services are available, including consultations with specialists.

**Additional Hospitals and Considerations**

Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, such as Fairmont Regional Medical Center (Fairmont, WV), offer additional options. However, the availability of specialized cardiology services and CMS star ratings may vary. It is crucial to check the most recent data for each facility.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, particularly for hypertensive patients. Prolonged wait times can delay necessary treatment, potentially leading to complications. Hospitals with shorter wait times, such as Stonewall Jackson, may be a preferable option for immediate care, especially during a hypertensive crisis. However, it is essential to consider the scope of services available at each facility.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

While none of the hospitals in the immediate vicinity of 26347 are specifically designated hypertension centers, their cardiology departments are crucial for managing the condition. Look for hospitals with board-certified cardiologists and access to specialized diagnostic equipment. Consider the availability of programs for lifestyle modifications, such as dietary counseling and exercise programs, which are essential components of hypertension management.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Access Gap**

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide remote consultations with cardiologists, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Check the availability of telehealth services at each hospital and inquire about the types of services offered, including remote blood pressure monitoring programs.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Quality Indicator**

The CMS star ratings provide a valuable, albeit imperfect, indicator of hospital quality. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally perform better in various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. However, it's important to consider that these ratings are based on publicly available data and do not capture all aspects of care.

**Specific Data Points: A Closer Look**

* **United Hospital Center:** Average ER wait time: 30 minutes to 1 hour. Telehealth utilization: Increasing, particularly for follow-up appointments. CMS Star Rating: 4 stars.
* **Mon Health Medical Center:** Average ER wait time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Telehealth availability: Yes, specific hypertension-related data unavailable. CMS Star Rating: 3 stars.
* **Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital:** Average ER wait time: 30-45 minutes. Telehealth availability: Yes, including specialist consultations. CMS Star Rating: 3 stars.

**Access to Specialists: A Crucial Element**

Access to cardiologists and other specialists is critical for effective hypertension management. Inquire about the availability of cardiology specialists at each hospital, including their subspecialties (e.g., interventional cardiology, electrophysiology). Consider the hospital's affiliation with larger medical networks, which may provide access to a broader range of specialists.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Services**

Ensure that the chosen hospital has a well-stocked pharmacy and offers medication management services. Ask about the availability of pharmacists who can provide medication counseling and help manage potential drug interactions. Consider the hospital's formulary and ensure that it includes the necessary medications for your specific hypertension treatment plan.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are important indicators of hospital quality. Read online reviews and check patient satisfaction scores to get a sense of the hospital's overall performance. Consider factors such as communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the facility, and the overall level of care.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Managing hypertension requires a proactive approach, including regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. Choosing the right hospital is a crucial step in this process. United Hospital Center, with its higher CMS rating and comprehensive cardiovascular services, may be a strong contender. Mon Health Medical Center also provides a solid option, while Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital offers a more local option with potentially shorter ER wait times. Consider the factors outlined in this review, including ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and patient experience, to make an informed decision that best suits your individual needs. Always consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to determine the best course of action for your specific health situation. Remember to regularly check for updated information, as hospital services and ratings can change.