39117, Morton, Mississippi Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 39117, Morton, Mississippi is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in the Heart of Mississippi: A Hospital Scorecard Near ZIP Code 39117

Finding the right care for arthritis can be a complex undertaking. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 39117 (Clinton, Mississippi) focusing on key metrics relevant to arthritis patients. While proximity is a factor, the quality of care, specialist availability, and patient experience are paramount. This report considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, the presence of specialized centers, telehealth options, and overall reputation.

**University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) – Jackson, MS (Approximately 15 miles from 39117)**

UMMC, located in Jackson, is the flagship hospital of the University of Mississippi system and a major regional referral center. It boasts a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not a top-tier rating, it reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety. UMMC’s rheumatology department is a significant draw, offering a comprehensive range of services.

UMMC's rheumatology specialists treat a wide array of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and vasculitis. They offer advanced diagnostic tools and a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists. They also provide infusion services for biologic medications.

Emergency room wait times at UMMC can vary, but data suggests they often exceed the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. UMMC is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations for certain rheumatology follow-up appointments. This can be a significant advantage for patients in the surrounding areas, reducing travel time and improving access to care. Specific telehealth statistics for rheumatology are not readily available, but UMMC is generally committed to expanding these offerings.

**St. Dominic Hospital – Jackson, MS (Approximately 12 miles from 39117)**

St. Dominic Hospital, also located in Jackson, is a private, not-for-profit hospital and a strong contender for arthritis care. It holds a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to UMMC. St. Dominic’s rheumatology services are well-regarded, with a team of experienced specialists.

The hospital's rheumatology department provides comprehensive care for various arthritic conditions, including diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. They offer a range of treatment options, including medication management, physical therapy, and injections. St. Dominic often boasts shorter ER wait times than UMMC, making it a potentially more attractive option for urgent care needs.

St. Dominic is also actively involved in community outreach and education programs related to arthritis. They may offer support groups and educational seminars for patients and their families. Telehealth options are available, although specific details regarding rheumatology-related telehealth services are not readily published. Patients should inquire directly with the hospital about the availability of virtual consultations or remote monitoring options.

**Baptist Medical Center – Jackson, MS (Approximately 10 miles from 39117)**

Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, another significant hospital in the area, is a faith-based institution. It also has a 4-star CMS rating, demonstrating a commitment to quality patient care. Baptist’s rheumatology department offers a robust set of services.

Baptist’s rheumatologists treat a wide range of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and lupus. They provide advanced diagnostic testing, including imaging and blood work. The hospital also has a strong physical therapy department that collaborates with rheumatologists to develop personalized treatment plans.

ER wait times at Baptist are generally competitive with other hospitals in the region. The hospital is actively investing in telehealth technology, and patients should inquire about the availability of virtual consultations with rheumatologists. Baptist is known for its patient-centered approach, focusing on individual needs and preferences.

**Other Considerations and Hospitals Further Afield**

While the three hospitals above are the primary contenders for arthritis care near 39117, several other factors should be considered.

**Specialty Centers:** None of the three main hospitals near 39117 have dedicated, standalone "arthritis centers." However, all three have robust rheumatology departments.

**Telehealth Availability:** All three hospitals are expanding their telehealth capabilities. However, specific statistics for rheumatology-related telehealth services are not readily available. Patients should inquire directly with each hospital about the availability of virtual consultations or remote monitoring options.

**Patient Reviews:** Online patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other arthritis patients. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient-reported ratings and reviews. However, it's crucial to consider the potential for bias and to interpret reviews with a critical eye.

**Smaller Hospitals:** While smaller hospitals closer to Clinton, MS, may offer basic medical services, they typically do not have the specialized expertise and resources of the larger hospitals in Jackson. Patients with complex arthritis conditions are generally better served by seeking care at a major medical center.

**Hospitals Further Away:** Patients willing to travel further may consider hospitals in other cities, such as Birmingham, Alabama, or Memphis, Tennessee, which may offer specialized arthritis centers or research programs. However, the added travel time and expense should be carefully considered.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Rheumatologist Expertise:** Research the specific experience and qualifications of the rheumatologists at each hospital. Consider their areas of specialization and their approach to patient care.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a comprehensive range of treatment options, including medication management, physical therapy, and advanced therapies like biologic medications.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its rheumatologists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to gain insights into the experiences of other arthritis patients.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location, parking availability, and ease of access.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** If you have urgent care needs, consider the ER wait times at each hospital.
* **Telehealth Options:** If you are interested in virtual consultations, inquire about the availability of telehealth services.

**Conclusion**

For residents of ZIP code 39117 seeking arthritis care, UMMC, St. Dominic Hospital, and Baptist Medical Center in Jackson are the primary options. St. Dominic and Baptist, with their 4-star CMS ratings, generally offer a higher level of overall quality compared to UMMC. However, UMMC’s strong rheumatology department and research focus make it a valuable option. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences, research the specific rheumatologists at each hospital, and evaluate the availability of treatment options and telehealth services. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on a combination of factors, including the severity of the condition, insurance coverage, and personal preferences. This review provides a starting point for making an informed decision.