35228, Birmingham, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35228, Birmingham, Alabama is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 35228

Living near ZIP code 35228 in Birmingham, Alabama, places residents within a healthcare landscape dominated by major players. This review analyzes the key hospitals in the area, offering an “Overall Health Score” based on factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to provide a comprehensive overview for informed healthcare decisions.

**The Flagship: UAB Hospital**

University of Alabama Hospital (UAB Hospital), located at 615 19th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233, is the undisputed heavyweight. UAB is a Level I trauma center and a nationally recognized teaching hospital. It boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not perfect, indicates a performance level considered "average" compared to other hospitals. CMS ratings consider factors like patient outcomes, readmission rates, and patient experience.

UAB’s emergency department (ED) sees a high volume of patients. While precise, real-time wait times fluctuate, historical data suggests average wait times can be significant, often exceeding the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours. UAB’s ED, however, is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, including complex trauma cases.

UAB shines in its specialized services. It houses the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated center offering cutting-edge cancer treatments. The hospital is also renowned for its cardiology and cardiovascular surgery programs, with a strong focus on heart transplants and advanced heart failure management. UAB's transplant programs, including solid organ transplants, are nationally recognized.

Telehealth plays a significant role at UAB. The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in specialty areas like cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. This allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management, improving access to care for patients in remote areas or with mobility limitations. UAB's telehealth programs have seen increased utilization, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham: A Community Focus**

St. Vincent's Birmingham, located at 2701 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, is another major player. It is a faith-based hospital with a strong community focus. St. Vincent's holds a 3-star CMS rating, reflecting its performance on various quality metrics. This rating suggests areas for improvement, particularly in patient outcomes and readmission rates, but it remains a vital healthcare provider.

St. Vincent's ED also experiences high patient volumes. While wait times can vary, they are generally comparable to those at UAB. The hospital's ED is well-equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

St. Vincent's is known for its women's health services, including a comprehensive maternity program. The hospital also has strong programs in cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer care. St. Vincent's has invested in advanced technologies and specialized centers to enhance its service offerings.

Telehealth is increasingly available at St. Vincent's. The hospital offers telehealth consultations for certain specialties, including primary care and behavioral health. While the scope of its telehealth program may be smaller than UAB's, it provides convenient access to care for patients.

**Brookwood Baptist Medical Center: A Regional Presence**

Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, situated at 2010 Brookwood Medical Center Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209, offers a regional presence. Brookwood Baptist has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating suggests that the hospital performs at an average level compared to other hospitals.

Brookwood Baptist's ED sees a significant number of patients, with wait times that can vary. The hospital’s ED is equipped to handle a wide array of medical emergencies.

Brookwood Baptist offers a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer care. The hospital has invested in advanced technologies and specialized centers to enhance its service offerings.

Telehealth services are offered at Brookwood Baptist, with a focus on specific specialties and follow-up care. The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in specialty areas like cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care**

Beyond the major hospitals, the area near 35228 has other healthcare options. Several smaller hospitals and urgent care clinics offer convenient access to care for less serious conditions. These facilities can provide timely treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, reducing the burden on the larger hospital EDs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Crucial Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. Real-time wait times can be found on hospital websites or through online tools. It's important to remember that these are estimates and can fluctuate. Patients with life-threatening conditions are always prioritized.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The hospitals near 35228 offer a wide range of specialty centers. These centers provide specialized care for specific medical conditions. Patients with complex medical needs should research the availability of specialized services at each hospital.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery. Telehealth services can provide convenient access to care for patients who cannot easily travel to a hospital or clinic. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at each hospital.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 35228 is dominated by UAB Hospital, St. Vincent's Birmingham, and Brookwood Baptist Medical Center. UAB, with its 4-star CMS rating and extensive specialized services, offers a comprehensive healthcare experience. St. Vincent's and Brookwood Baptist, with 3-star ratings, provide valuable community-based care.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While a useful metric, CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle. Consider other factors like patient reviews and personal experiences.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Check real-time wait times online or by phone before heading to the ED.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care, research the specific services offered by each hospital.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Inquire about telehealth options for convenient access to care.
* **Proximity:** Consider the distance and ease of access to each hospital.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. This review provides information to help residents near 35228 make informed choices. Weigh the factors that are most important to you, and consider consulting with your primary care physician to determine the best healthcare options for your individual needs. The healthcare landscape in this area offers a variety of choices, allowing for a degree of customization in choosing the best fit.