39501, Gulfport, Mississippi Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 39501, Gulfport, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in Biloxi: A Review of Hospitals Near 39501

The Mississippi Gulf Coast, particularly the Biloxi area (ZIP Code 39501), offers a range of healthcare options for individuals managing arthritis. This review examines the hospitals closest to this area, focusing on their arthritis-related services, quality metrics, and accessibility.

**Flagship Hospital: Merit Health Biloxi**

Merit Health Biloxi, located at 1501 Pass Road, is a prominent healthcare provider in the region. While specific data on its arthritis program is limited, it's a major facility with a wide array of specialties. Merit Health Biloxi is a 255-bed hospital. It is important to note that Merit Health Biloxi does not have a CMS star rating. The hospital offers a range of services that may be relevant to arthritis patients, including physical therapy, pain management, and orthopedic care. Patients should inquire directly about the hospital's specific arthritis services and the expertise of its rheumatologists and orthopedic specialists.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor for individuals experiencing acute arthritis flares. While precise wait times fluctuate, patients should be aware of potential delays. Merit Health Biloxi's ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to call the hospital's ER beforehand to inquire about current wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Orthopedic Services**

Merit Health Biloxi has orthopedic services, which are vital for managing the structural damage and pain associated with arthritis. These services include joint replacement, fracture care, and other surgical interventions. Patients should research the experience and qualifications of the orthopedic surgeons at Merit Health Biloxi.

**Telehealth Availability**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, offering convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. Merit Health Biloxi may offer telehealth services, including virtual appointments with rheumatologists and other specialists. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options and the platforms used for virtual consultations.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity**

While Merit Health Biloxi is a major player, patients may also consider other hospitals in the surrounding area, such as Singing River Health System in nearby Pascagoula. However, this hospital is further from the 39501 zip code and may not be as convenient.

**Singing River Health System**

Singing River Health System, with its main campus in Pascagoula, offers a wider range of services, including a comprehensive orthopedic program. Singing River Health System has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital's orthopedic program offers joint replacement, sports medicine, and other orthopedic procedures. Patients should research the experience and qualifications of the orthopedic surgeons at Singing River Health System.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor for individuals experiencing acute arthritis flares. While precise wait times fluctuate, patients should be aware of potential delays. Singing River Health System's ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to call the hospital's ER beforehand to inquire about current wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Orthopedic Services**

Singing River Health System has orthopedic services, which are vital for managing the structural damage and pain associated with arthritis. These services include joint replacement, fracture care, and other surgical interventions. Patients should research the experience and qualifications of the orthopedic surgeons at Singing River Health System.

**Telehealth Availability**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, offering convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. Singing River Health System may offer telehealth services, including virtual appointments with rheumatologists and other specialists. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options and the platforms used for virtual consultations.

**Access to Rheumatologists**

Access to a qualified rheumatologist is essential for diagnosing and managing arthritis. Patients should inquire about the availability of rheumatologists at each hospital and the process for scheduling appointments. Some hospitals may have rheumatologists on staff, while others may rely on referrals to specialists in the community.

**Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation**

Physical therapy and rehabilitation play a crucial role in managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and preventing further complications. Patients should inquire about the availability of physical therapy services at each hospital and the types of therapies offered.

**Pain Management Services**

Chronic pain is a common symptom of arthritis. Patients should inquire about the availability of pain management services at each hospital, including medication management, interventional procedures, and other therapies.

**Patient Satisfaction and Reviews**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by each hospital. Patients should research online reviews and ratings to learn about other patients' experiences with arthritis care at each hospital.

**Cost and Insurance Considerations**

The cost of arthritis care can vary depending on the hospital, the services provided, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should inquire about the cost of services and the hospital's accepted insurance plans.

**Researching Physicians**

Thoroughly researching the physicians, particularly rheumatologists and orthopedic surgeons, is a critical step in selecting the right hospital. Look for physicians with board certifications, extensive experience in treating arthritis, and positive patient reviews. Check their credentials and affiliations through the state medical board.

**Navigating the Healthcare System**

The healthcare system can be complex. Patients should familiarize themselves with the hospital's processes for scheduling appointments, obtaining referrals, and accessing medical records.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care in the Biloxi area requires careful consideration of factors such as services offered, physician expertise, patient reviews, and cost. Merit Health Biloxi and Singing River Health System are the primary options. Patients should research the specific services available at each hospital, the qualifications of the physicians, and the hospital's overall quality metrics. By gathering this information, patients can make informed decisions about their arthritis care and find the best possible treatment options near ZIP Code 39501.