35502, Jasper, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35502, Jasper, Alabama is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 35502 (Jasper, Alabama)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Jasper, Alabama (ZIP Code 35502), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your care. This analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. Due to the limited number of hospitals immediately within the 35502 ZIP code, this review will primarily focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, offering the most relevant options for residents of Jasper and the surrounding areas.

**Understanding the Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment, not a single number. It considers multiple data points, giving a more comprehensive picture of a hospital's performance. This review emphasizes publicly available information from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly reported data. It is crucial to remember that this is a snapshot in time, and hospital performance can fluctuate. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance**

The primary hospitals serving the Jasper area include Walker Baptist Medical Center and Brookwood Baptist Medical Center. Other facilities, like UAB Hospital in Birmingham, while further afield, offer specialized care and are frequently accessed by residents.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center (Jasper, AL)**

Walker Baptist Medical Center is a cornerstone of healthcare in Jasper. It is a 263-bed facility, providing a range of services. As of the latest publicly available data, Walker Baptist does not have a CMS star rating. This does not necessarily indicate poor quality, but rather that the hospital may not have enough data available for CMS to issue a rating, or that they have not been rated. It's essential to delve deeper into specific performance metrics to assess the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Emergency Department Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for many patients. While specific, real-time ER wait times can fluctuate significantly, Walker Baptist Medical Center reports average wait times that are generally in line with, or slightly below, the national average. However, it is always best to call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information. The hospital's ER sees a significant volume of patients, reflecting its role as a primary care provider for the region.

**Specialty Services:** Walker Baptist offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab, crucial for treating heart attacks and other cardiovascular emergencies. The hospital also houses a labor and delivery unit, providing maternity care to the community. Surgical services are also a core offering.

**Telehealth:** Walker Baptist Medical Center is expanding its telehealth capabilities. This is especially important for a rural area, as it can improve access to specialists and follow-up care. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

**Brookwood Baptist Medical Center (Birmingham, AL)**

Located in Birmingham, Brookwood Baptist Medical Center is a larger facility, offering a broader range of specialized services. While not directly in Jasper, it's a frequently utilized option for residents. Brookwood Baptist Medical Center has a CMS star rating, which can be a useful benchmark. The most recent rating should be consulted on the CMS website.

**Emergency Department Performance:** Brookwood Baptist Medical Center's ER sees a high volume of patients, reflecting its status as a regional referral center. ER wait times can vary, and it's advisable to check current wait times through their website or by phone.

**Specialty Services:** Brookwood Baptist excels in several specialty areas. It has a comprehensive cancer center, offering advanced treatments and clinical trials. The hospital also has a strong reputation in cardiology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics. Brookwood Baptist has a dedicated stroke center and is equipped to handle complex medical cases.

**Telehealth:** Brookwood Baptist has a robust telehealth program, offering a wide array of virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients who require specialized care or follow-up appointments but may have difficulty traveling to Birmingham.

**UAB Hospital (Birmingham, AL)**

UAB Hospital, located in Birmingham, is a nationally recognized academic medical center. It is a major referral center for the state and region, often providing care for complex or rare conditions. UAB Hospital consistently receives high ratings from various organizations, including a high CMS star rating.

**Emergency Department Performance:** UAB's emergency department is one of the busiest in the state, and wait times can be longer than at smaller hospitals. However, the hospital is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies and has specialized teams available. Checking real-time wait times is essential.

**Specialty Services:** UAB Hospital offers a vast array of specialty services, including transplant programs, advanced cancer treatment, and cutting-edge research. It is a leading center for trauma care and has a Level I trauma center. UAB's expertise in areas like cardiology, neurology, and surgery is renowned.

**Telehealth:** UAB Hospital has a comprehensive telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists across a wide range of disciplines. They have invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure to improve access to care for patients throughout Alabama and beyond.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors influence healthcare access in the 35502 area. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists is crucial. The location of these physicians, along with the availability of urgent care clinics and outpatient facilities, impacts overall healthcare access.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Specialty Needs:** Does the hospital offer the specific services you require?
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** How long can you expect to wait in the ER?
* **CMS Star Rating:** A general indicator of overall quality, but not the only factor.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Can you access virtual consultations and remote monitoring?
* **Physician Network:** Does the hospital have a strong network of specialists?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Consider online reviews and patient experiences.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP Code 35502 reflects a landscape of varied options. Walker Baptist Medical Center serves as a vital community hospital, offering a range of essential services. Brookwood Baptist Medical Center and UAB Hospital, while located in Birmingham, provide access to more specialized care and are frequently utilized by residents.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center:** Offers essential local care, but lacks a CMS star rating. ER wait times are reasonable. Focus on local access and a range of services. Telehealth is expanding.

**Brookwood Baptist Medical Center:** Strong specialty services and a CMS star rating. ER wait times can vary. Excellent for specialized care. Telehealth is well-developed.

**UAB Hospital:** Nationally recognized for its expertise, high CMS star rating. Longer ER wait times. Excellent for complex cases and specialized care. Extensive telehealth offerings.

The best choice depends on individual needs. For routine care, Walker Baptist is a convenient option. For specialized care, Brookwood Baptist and UAB Hospital offer more advanced services. Consider all factors when making your decision, and always consult with your physician. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, so staying informed and proactive is essential for maintaining your overall health. Remember to always check the most up-to-date information, especially regarding wait times, and to consult with your primary care physician for guidance.