35149, Sycamore, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35149, Sycamore, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 35149 (Pell City, AL)

This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near Pell City, Alabama (ZIP Code 35149), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and the availability of key healthcare services. We'll examine the strengths and weaknesses of the local and regional healthcare options, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" perspective.

**The Local Landscape: St. Vincent's St. Clair**

The most immediate healthcare provider for residents of 35149 is **St. Vincent's St. Clair**, located in Pell City. This facility is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special designation and funding due to its rural location and limited resources. As such, it is not typically evaluated using the same rigorous metrics as larger, urban hospitals. However, it is crucial to the community, providing essential services like emergency care, inpatient care, and some outpatient services.

St. Vincent's St. Clair offers a 24/7 Emergency Department, which is a vital resource for the area. However, specific data on ER wait times for this facility is not readily available through publicly accessible sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website, which is a common source for such information. Therefore, residents are advised to check with the hospital directly or use local resources for the most current wait time information.

The hospital provides a range of services, including diagnostic imaging (X-ray, CT scans), laboratory services, and a surgical suite. They also have a focus on women's health, with obstetrics and gynecology services. While it is a smaller facility, St. Vincent's St. Clair serves as a vital access point for healthcare needs, and is the most convenient option for many residents of 35149.

**Regional Powerhouse: St. Vincent's Birmingham (and its Network)**

Given the limitations of a critical access hospital, residents in 35149 often look to larger, more specialized facilities within a reasonable driving distance. The dominant player in the Birmingham area is **St. Vincent's Birmingham**, part of the Ascension Health system. This hospital is a flagship facility, known for its comprehensive services and specialized centers.

St. Vincent's Birmingham holds a **four-star rating from CMS**, indicating a solid level of quality and patient satisfaction. This rating is based on a range of factors, including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care. This is a good indicator of the hospital's commitment to quality.

St. Vincent's Birmingham boasts a robust Emergency Department, with a high volume of patients. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to provide timely care. Information on current wait times is often available on their website or through local resources. The hospital is also equipped with advanced diagnostic imaging and a full range of surgical specialties.

St. Vincent's Birmingham is particularly well-regarded for its heart care, cancer treatment, and women's health services. The hospital has dedicated heart and vascular centers, offering advanced treatments for cardiovascular diseases. The cancer center provides comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The women's health services encompass obstetrics, gynecology, and specialized care for women's health concerns.

The St. Vincent's network also includes outpatient facilities and clinics throughout the Birmingham area, offering convenient access to primary care, specialist appointments, and diagnostic services. This network approach enhances the overall healthcare experience for patients, providing continuity of care and coordinated services.

**Other Regional Options: UAB Hospital**

Another major hospital option for residents near 35149 is **UAB Hospital** in Birmingham. UAB Hospital is a nationally recognized academic medical center, known for its cutting-edge research, advanced treatments, and specialized care.

UAB Hospital consistently receives high ratings and recognition for its quality of care. It is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most critical medical emergencies. UAB Hospital also holds a **four-star rating from CMS**, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.

UAB Hospital's Emergency Department is a high-volume facility, and wait times can vary. However, the hospital strives to provide efficient and timely care. Information on current ER wait times is available through their website and local resources.

UAB Hospital excels in several specialties, including cardiology, neurology, oncology, and transplant services. The hospital is at the forefront of medical research, offering patients access to innovative treatments and clinical trials. It is a major referral center, drawing patients from across the state and region.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Services**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare, especially for rural communities like those near 35149. Both St. Vincent's and UAB Hospital offer telehealth options, providing remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists.

St. Vincent's offers telehealth services through its network of clinics and hospitals, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for residents in 35149, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care.

UAB Hospital also provides telehealth services, including virtual visits with specialists and remote monitoring programs. This technology enables patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, enhancing convenience and access.

The adoption of digital health tools, such as patient portals and mobile apps, is also growing. These tools allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and manage their health more effectively.

**Accessibility and Transportation Considerations**

Accessibility is a crucial factor in healthcare. While St. Vincent's St. Clair is conveniently located in Pell City, residents may need to travel to Birmingham for more specialized care. The distance to St. Vincent's Birmingham and UAB Hospital is approximately 30-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

Transportation options for residents of 35149 may be limited. Public transportation is not readily available in the area. Therefore, access to a personal vehicle or reliance on family and friends is essential for accessing healthcare services outside of Pell City.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP Code 35149 is influenced by a combination of factors. The local option, St. Vincent's St. Clair, provides essential emergency and basic care, but residents often rely on regional facilities in Birmingham for specialized services.

**Strengths:**

* **Proximity to St. Vincent's St. Clair:** Convenient access to emergency care and basic medical services.
* **Access to High-Quality Regional Hospitals:** Close proximity to St. Vincent's Birmingham and UAB Hospital, offering comprehensive and specialized care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Both St. Vincent's and UAB Hospital offer telehealth services, improving access to care and convenience.
* **CMS Ratings:** Both St. Vincent's Birmingham and UAB Hospital hold respectable CMS star ratings, indicating a commitment to quality.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Limited Local Specialized Services:** Residents often need to travel to Birmingham for specialized care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times, particularly at the larger hospitals, can be a concern.
* **Transportation Challenges:** Limited public transportation options require reliance on personal vehicles or family/friends.
* **Critical Access Hospital Limitations:** St. Vincent's St. Clair, as a critical access hospital, has limited resources and may not offer the same level of specialized care as larger facilities.

**Overall, the Overall Health Score for residents near 35149 is "Good."** While the local hospital provides essential services, the proximity to high-quality regional hospitals in Birmingham significantly enhances the healthcare landscape. Residents have access to a wide range of specialized services and advanced treatments. However, transportation challenges and the need to travel for specialized care remain factors to consider. Residents should proactively research ER wait times, understand their insurance coverage, and explore telehealth options to maximize their healthcare experience.