35586, Sulligent, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35586, Sulligent, Alabama is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 35586

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP Code 35586 (Winfield, Alabama), focusing on key metrics like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This information is designed to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Winfield, Alabama, is a relatively rural area. Access to specialized medical care often requires travel. Therefore, this review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, including those in surrounding cities like Jasper and Tuscaloosa. The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment, drawing from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available data.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The CMS Star Ratings are a valuable, albeit imperfect, tool for evaluating hospital quality. These ratings, based on a five-star system, reflect performance across various quality measures.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center (Jasper, AL):** Located approximately 25 miles east of Winfield, Walker Baptist Medical Center is a key regional hospital. As of the latest CMS data, Walker Baptist holds a **3-star rating**. This rating reflects its performance across various categories, including patient experience, readmission rates, and mortality rates. Walker Baptist has a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a dedicated women's health center. It's important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

**DCH Regional Medical Center (Tuscaloosa, AL):** Approximately 70 miles south of Winfield, DCH Regional Medical Center is a larger, more comprehensive facility. DCH Regional is a major referral center, providing specialized care not always available in smaller hospitals. DCH Regional, as of the latest available data, also holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This hospital is a Level II Trauma Center, meaning it's equipped to handle serious injuries and emergencies. DCH Regional is also known for its cancer center, heart care, and comprehensive surgical services.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially in urgent situations. Shorter wait times can translate to better outcomes. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center:** Generally, ER wait times at Walker Baptist are in line with the national average. However, wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**DCH Regional Medical Center:** Due to its larger size and higher patient volume, DCH Regional's ER wait times may be slightly longer than those at Walker Baptist. However, the hospital's trauma center designation ensures rapid response for critical cases. Again, checking the hospital's website or online platforms for current wait times is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The availability of specialized services is a critical consideration for many patients.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center:** Offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a women's health center. These centers provide focused care for specific medical needs. The hospital also has a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU).

**DCH Regional Medical Center:** Boasts a more extensive range of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart center, and specialized surgical units. DCH Regional is also a regional leader in stroke care. The hospital has dedicated units for various specialties, including neurology, gastroenterology, and urology.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center:** Has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This can improve access to specialists and reduce the need for travel. The hospital is likely to continue investing in its telehealth infrastructure.

**DCH Regional Medical Center:** Has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists through video conferencing. DCH Regional is at the forefront of telehealth initiatives in the region. The hospital is also exploring remote patient monitoring programs to improve chronic disease management.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare quality. Factors such as communication, responsiveness, and the overall hospital environment contribute to patient satisfaction.

**Walker Baptist Medical Center:** Patient satisfaction scores are generally positive. The hospital emphasizes patient-centered care and strives to create a supportive environment. Patient feedback is used to improve services.

**DCH Regional Medical Center:** Patient satisfaction scores are also generally positive. The hospital actively seeks patient feedback and uses it to improve its services. DCH Regional is committed to providing compassionate and patient-centered care.

**Specific Considerations for Winfield Residents**

Residents of Winfield should consider the following factors when choosing a hospital:

* **Proximity:** Walker Baptist Medical Center is the closest major hospital, making it the most convenient option for many residents.
* **Specialty Needs:** For specialized care, DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa offers a wider range of services.
* **Emergency Situations:** In emergencies, the closest and most appropriate hospital should be chosen, considering the severity of the situation and the availability of services.
* **Transportation:** Transportation options should be considered, especially for those who may not have reliable personal vehicles.

**Hospital Comparisons**

A direct comparison of the two flagship hospitals near Winfield is as follows:

| Feature | Walker Baptist Medical Center | DCH Regional Medical Center |
| ----------------------- | ----------------------------- | --------------------------- |
| CMS Star Rating | 3 Stars | 3 Stars |
| Distance from Winfield | Approximately 25 miles | Approximately 70 miles |
| ER Wait Times | Generally average | Potentially longer |
| Specialty Services | Comprehensive | More extensive |
| Telehealth | Expanding | Robust |
| Trauma Level | N/A | Level II |
| Patient Satisfaction | Generally positive | Generally positive |

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data, both Walker Baptist Medical Center and DCH Regional Medical Center provide valuable healthcare services to residents near ZIP Code 35586.

* **Walker Baptist Medical Center:** Offers a good balance of accessibility, quality, and convenience. It is a solid choice for general medical needs and routine care. Its proximity to Winfield is a major advantage.
* **DCH Regional Medical Center:** Provides a wider range of specialized services and is a regional referral center. It is a better choice for complex medical needs and emergencies requiring specialized care. The longer travel time is a consideration.

**Recommendations**

* **For routine care and general medical needs:** Walker Baptist Medical Center is a good starting point.
* **For specialized care or complex medical conditions:** DCH Regional Medical Center is the preferred option.
* **In emergencies:** The closest and most appropriate hospital should be chosen, considering the severity of the situation.
* **Always verify the most current information:** Hospital ratings, wait times, and service availability can change. Check hospital websites and other reliable sources for the most up-to-date information.
* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health needs.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP Code 35586. By considering the factors discussed, residents can make informed choices that best meet their healthcare needs. Remember to stay informed, consult with healthcare professionals, and prioritize your health.