24354, Marion, Virginia Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 24354, Marion, Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Arthritis Score: Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 24354**

This review analyzes healthcare options for arthritis patients near ZIP code 24354 (Marion, Virginia), focusing on hospital quality indicators crucial for effective arthritis management. The assessment considers factors like specialized centers, physician expertise, emergency room wait times, telehealth availability, and overall patient satisfaction, alongside publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and hospital websites.

**Flagship Hospital Overview: Johnston Memorial Hospital**

Johnston Memorial Hospital (JMH), located in Abingdon, Virginia, is the primary hospital serving the 24354 area. JMH is part of Ballad Health, a regional health system. While Ballad Health as a system does not have a CMS star rating, individual facilities like JMH are evaluated. Information on JMH's specific CMS star rating is not readily available. However, it is essential to check the most up-to-date CMS data as ratings can change. JMH offers a range of services relevant to arthritis patients, including orthopedics, rheumatology, and physical therapy.

**Specialty Centers and Physician Expertise**

For arthritis care, the availability of specialized centers and experienced physicians is paramount. JMH has an orthopedic department that offers a range of services, including joint replacement and other surgical interventions that can be crucial for managing advanced arthritis. Rheumatology services are available, but the number of board-certified rheumatologists and their experience levels are crucial for providing comprehensive care. Patients should inquire about the specific training and experience of the rheumatologists and orthopedic surgeons.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Access to Care**

Emergency room wait times can be a critical factor, particularly during acute arthritis flares. While specific ER wait times for JMH are not available in real-time, it's advisable to check online resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms for the most current information. Shorter wait times generally indicate better access to care. Patients experiencing severe pain or other urgent symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring Capabilities**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. JMH may offer telehealth options for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Patients should inquire about the availability of these services, which can improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who live in rural areas. Telehealth can also facilitate medication management and patient education. Ballad Health is known for its telehealth initiatives, and patients should explore what options are available.

**Patient Satisfaction and Experience**

Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of hospital quality. While specific patient satisfaction scores for JMH are not available in this review, patients can often find this data on the hospital's website, through patient surveys, or on third-party review sites. Factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall patient experience are important considerations.

**Additional Healthcare Providers and Options**

Beyond JMH, patients in the 24354 area may have access to other healthcare providers, including:

* **Outpatient Clinics:** Numerous outpatient clinics in the area offer rheumatology and orthopedic services. These clinics can provide specialized care and may offer faster appointment availability than hospital-based services.
* **Physical Therapy Centers:** Physical therapy is a crucial component of arthritis management. Several physical therapy centers in the area offer specialized programs to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** Primary care physicians play a vital role in arthritis management, providing initial diagnosis, medication management, and referrals to specialists.

**Navigating the Healthcare System**

Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging. Patients should:

* **Consult with their primary care physician:** Your primary care physician can provide referrals to specialists, coordinate care, and help you understand your treatment options.
* **Research specialists:** Research rheumatologists and orthopedic surgeons in the area, considering their experience, training, and patient reviews.
* **Inquire about insurance coverage:** Confirm that the healthcare providers you choose are in your insurance network.
* **Prepare for appointments:** Bring a detailed medical history, including a list of medications, allergies, and previous treatments.
* **Ask questions:** Don't hesitate to ask your healthcare providers questions about your diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis.

**Data Limitations and Future Considerations**

This review is based on publicly available information and may not reflect all aspects of the healthcare landscape in the 24354 area. Data availability can be limited, and information may change frequently. Patients should always verify the most current information with the healthcare providers themselves.

Future reviews should consider:

* **Specific data on rheumatologist and orthopedic surgeon experience:** Including details on board certifications, years of experience, and specializations.
* **Real-time ER wait time data:** Integrating data from hospital websites or third-party platforms to provide up-to-date information.
* **Detailed information on telehealth offerings:** Including the types of services available, the platforms used, and the patient experience.
* **Patient-reported outcomes:** Incorporating data on patient satisfaction, pain levels, and functional abilities.

**Conclusion**

For arthritis patients near ZIP code 24354, Johnston Memorial Hospital is the primary healthcare option. Patients should thoroughly research the available rheumatology and orthopedic services, assess ER wait times, and inquire about telehealth options. Consulting with a primary care physician, researching specialists, and actively participating in their care are crucial steps for effectively managing arthritis. By carefully considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and receive the best possible care for their condition.