33319, Fort Lauderdale, Florida Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 33319, Fort Lauderdale, Florida is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in Broward County: A Review of Hospitals Near 33319

Finding the right hospital for arthritis treatment can be a daunting task. This review focuses on hospitals near the 33319 ZIP code in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering a fact-based assessment of their capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. This information is crucial for patients seeking the best possible care for their arthritis.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 33319 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Fort Lauderdale, places residents within a region with a diverse healthcare landscape. Several hospitals in the area offer varying levels of arthritis care, from general rheumatology to specialized centers. This review will delve into the specifics of each facility, providing a clear picture of their strengths and weaknesses.

**Memorial Regional Hospital: A Flagship Institution**

Memorial Regional Hospital, located at 3501 Johnson Street, Hollywood, FL 33021, is a major player in the Broward County healthcare scene. It's a large, comprehensive facility and a flagship of the Memorial Healthcare System. As of the latest CMS data, Memorial Regional holds a 3-star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and efficiency. While the rating is not the highest possible, it's important to note that CMS ratings can fluctuate.

Memorial Regional Hospital's Emergency Department (ER) wait times are a critical factor for patients experiencing acute arthritis flares. According to recent data, the average ER wait time can vary, so patients should check real-time updates available online or via the hospital's website. The hospital's website also provides information on wait times. The hospital's rheumatology department offers a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various forms of arthritis. Specific details about the number of rheumatologists, the availability of advanced imaging, and the types of specialized therapies offered can be found on the Memorial Healthcare System website.

**Broward Health Medical Center: A Comprehensive Approach**

Broward Health Medical Center, situated at 1600 S Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, is another significant hospital in the area. It is part of the Broward Health system and offers a wide array of medical services. Broward Health Medical Center currently holds a 2-star rating from CMS.

The hospital's ER wait times are an important consideration. Patients can find up-to-date information on wait times through the Broward Health website or by calling the hospital directly. Broward Health Medical Center's rheumatology department provides services for various types of arthritis. Patients should investigate the availability of specialized programs, such as those focused on specific types of arthritis or those offering multidisciplinary care.

**Holy Cross Health: A Community-Focused Option**

Holy Cross Health, located at 4725 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308, is a Catholic, non-profit hospital. Holy Cross Health currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS.

The hospital's ER wait times are a key factor for patients. The Holy Cross Health website provides up-to-date information on ER wait times. Holy Cross Health’s rheumatology department offers care for arthritis patients. Specific details about the rheumatology department, including the number of specialists and available treatments, can be found on the hospital's website.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general rheumatology, some hospitals offer specialized centers or programs. These may include:

* **Infusion Centers:** Many hospitals have dedicated infusion centers where patients can receive intravenous medications, such as biologics, used to treat certain types of arthritis. The availability of infusion services is a crucial consideration for patients requiring these treatments.
* **Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:** Access to physical therapy and rehabilitation services is essential for managing arthritis. Hospitals often have on-site physical therapy departments or partnerships with rehabilitation facilities.
* **Pain Management Clinics:** Chronic pain is a common symptom of arthritis. Some hospitals have pain management clinics that offer a range of treatments, including medication management, nerve blocks, and other interventional procedures.
* **Orthopedic Surgery:** For patients with severe arthritis that requires joint replacement or other surgical interventions, the availability of skilled orthopedic surgeons is crucial.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. Many hospitals now offer telehealth services for rheumatology consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those who live far from the hospital.

* **Telehealth Statistics:** Hospitals should provide information on the availability of telehealth services, including the types of appointments offered, the technology used, and the process for scheduling telehealth visits.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some hospitals use remote monitoring technologies to track patients' symptoms and progress. This can involve the use of wearable devices or other tools to collect data on pain levels, activity levels, and other relevant metrics.

**Key Considerations for Patients**

When choosing a hospital for arthritis care, patients should consider the following factors:

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the rheumatologists are paramount. Patients should research the physicians' credentials, board certifications, and areas of specialization.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, including medications, physical therapy, and other therapies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Patients should verify that the hospital and physicians are in their insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.
* **Accessibility:** The hospital should be conveniently located and accessible, with adequate parking and transportation options.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are an important consideration, especially for patients experiencing acute arthritis flares. Long wait times can exacerbate pain and discomfort. Patients should check real-time wait times online or by calling the hospital before going to the ER.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care requires careful consideration of various factors. This review provides a starting point for patients near the 33319 ZIP code, offering a factual overview of the available options. Patients should conduct further research, consult with their primary care physicians, and consider their individual needs and preferences when making a decision. Remember to check for the most up-to-date information on hospital websites, as services and ratings can change.