Meritus Hagerstown Heart

For residents of Hagerstown, Maryland, and the surrounding region seeking a local "Heart Doctor Near Me," Meritus Hagerstown Heart, located at 1733 Howell Rd, offers a dedicated practice for cardiovascular care. Situated at the same address as Hagerstown Heart: W. Stephen Hood, M.D., it suggests a potential collaboration or shared facility aimed at providing accessible cardiac services to the community. Meritus Health is a well-established healthcare system in the area, and Meritus Hagerstown Heart likely benefits from this affiliation, offering a range of diagnostic and treatment options for various heart conditions.

The environment at Meritus Hagerstown Heart, based on its likely association with a broader healthcare system, is expected to be professional and geared towards patient comfort. Medical facilities under the Meritus Health umbrella typically maintain standards of cleanliness and efficiency. Patients can anticipate a waiting area, consultation rooms for discussing their health concerns with physicians, and examination rooms equipped for cardiac assessments. The presence of a technician performing echocardiograms indicates the availability of on-site diagnostic testing. The overall environment aims to provide a setting where patients feel comfortable and confident in receiving cardiac care within their local community.

Services Offered at Meritus Hagerstown Heart:

As a cardiology-focused practice under the Meritus Health system, Meritus Hagerstown Heart likely offers a range of services related to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of heart and vascular conditions. These services may include:

• Clinical Cardiology Consultations: Comprehensive evaluations for patients with known or suspected heart conditions.
• Electrocardiograms (EKGs): A standard diagnostic test to assess the electrical activity of the heart.
• Echocardiograms: Ultrasound imaging of the heart to evaluate its structure and function. The positive review specifically mentions the experience with an echocardiogram technician, highlighting the availability of this service.
• Cardiac Monitoring: Including Holter monitors and event monitors to record the heart's rhythm over extended periods, aiding in the diagnosis of intermittent arrhythmias. One of the patient reviews mentions returning a heart monitor.
• Stress Testing: To assess the heart's response to exercise or medication, helping to detect blockages or other issues.
• Management of Coronary Artery Disease: Medical treatment and management of conditions like angina and heart attacks.
• Heart Failure Management: Care for patients with weakened heart function, including medication and lifestyle guidance.
• Treatment of Arrhythmias: Medical management of irregular heart rhythms.
• Preventive Cardiology: Risk assessment and strategies to prevent the development of heart disease.
• Management of Hypertension and Hyperlipidemia: Addressing key risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Given its name and likely affiliation with Meritus Health, the practice is positioned to provide a broad spectrum of cardiac care to the Hagerstown community.

Features and Patient Experiences:

The provided reviews offer contrasting experiences at Meritus Hagerstown Heart, highlighting different aspects of patient care:

• Positive Experience with Technician Monique: One patient shared a "wonderful experience" specifically praising Monique, the echocardiogram technician. The review emphasizes Monique's professionalism, friendliness, and ability to make the patient feel at ease during the procedure. Her thorough explanations and caring demeanor were particularly appreciated, suggesting a high level of patient care from at least one member of the staff.
• Negative Experience Regarding Physician Communication and Follow-Up: The second review details a less satisfactory experience. The patient noted that the nurse and echocardiogram technician were "very nice," but described the physician's demeanor as indifferent ("so/so," "didn't seem to really care," felt like "wasting his time"). Furthermore, the patient reported a lack of communication regarding test results, with a chart indicating the doctor had spoken to them when no call was received. The subsequent call from the nurse with a brief negative finding and no further guidance left the patient feeling dismissed and that their health concerns were not taken seriously. This review raises concerns about physician attentiveness and follow-up communication.

These contrasting reviews illustrate the variability in patient experiences within a medical practice. While some staff members, like the technician Monique, are commended for their excellent care, other aspects, such as physician communication and follow-up, appear to be areas for potential improvement based on the negative feedback.

Promotional Information and Considerations:

Meritus Hagerstown Heart serves the Hagerstown, MD, community as a local option for cardiac care. The availability of on-site diagnostic services like echocardiograms and cardiac monitoring can be convenient for patients requiring these tests. The positive feedback regarding the technician suggests that some members of the staff are dedicated to providing a positive patient experience.

However, the negative review concerning physician interaction and communication should also be considered by prospective patients. It highlights the importance of clear communication, thorough follow-up, and a patient-centered approach in healthcare. Patients seeking care at Meritus Hagerstown Heart may want to inquire about the communication protocols for test results and the approach to addressing patient concerns.

If you are looking for a "Heart Doctor Near Me" in Hagerstown, Meritus Hagerstown Heart provides a local option within the established Meritus Health system. For appointments and inquiries, please contact them at:

Meritus Hagerstown Heart
1733 Howell Rd
Hagerstown, MD 21740, USA
Phone: (301) 797-2525
Mobile Phone: +1 301-797-2525

Prospective patients are encouraged to consider the available information, including the range of services and the varying patient experiences, when making decisions about their cardiac care. Direct communication with the practice may help address any specific concerns or questions you may have.