35621, Eva, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35621, Eva, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 35621 (Decatur, Alabama)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” for hospitals within a reasonable radius of Decatur, Alabama (ZIP Code 35621), focusing on key metrics to aid informed decision-making. This score is not a definitive ranking but a comparative analysis based on publicly available data, including Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape: Decatur and Beyond**

Decatur, Alabama, sits in Morgan County, and residents have several hospital options within a drivable distance. The primary considerations include quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. The hospitals evaluated below are those most frequently utilized by residents of the 35621 ZIP code and surrounding areas.

**Decatur Morgan Hospital (Decatur, AL)**

Decatur Morgan Hospital, a part of the Huntsville Hospital Health System, is a central player in the local healthcare ecosystem. It operates two campuses: Decatur Morgan Hospital- Parkway and Decatur Morgan Hospital- Calhoun.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Decatur Morgan Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a hospital's overall performance based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor for immediate care. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, the hospital's publicly reported average wait times should be monitored. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools can provide up-to-date information.
* **Specialty Centers:** Decatur Morgan Hospital offers a range of specialty services. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and a women's center. The hospital's website provides detailed information on specific services and programs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is increasingly important for convenient access to care. Decatur Morgan Hospital likely offers telehealth services, especially through its affiliation with Huntsville Hospital Health System. Details on available telehealth appointments, including specialist consultations, should be available on their website.
* **Overall Health Score (Decatur Morgan Hospital):** Considering its 3-star CMS rating, the availability of specialty centers, and the need to monitor ER wait times, Decatur Morgan Hospital provides a solid foundation of care for the Decatur community. The overall score is affected by the CMS rating.

**Huntsville Hospital (Huntsville, AL)**

Approximately 30 miles east of Decatur, Huntsville Hospital is a major regional medical center. As the flagship hospital of the Huntsville Hospital Health System, it offers a broader range of specialized services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Huntsville Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS. This higher rating indicates better performance across a wider range of quality metrics compared to Decatur Morgan Hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** As a larger facility, Huntsville Hospital's ER can experience varying wait times. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools for real-time updates is essential.
* **Specialty Centers:** Huntsville Hospital boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including a Level I Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, a heart center, and a cancer center. It also has specialized pediatric services.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Huntsville Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services.
* **Overall Health Score (Huntsville Hospital):** Huntsville Hospital's 4-star CMS rating, coupled with its extensive specialty offerings and telehealth capabilities, positions it as a higher-scoring option for those who can travel. The overall score is high due to the CMS rating and specialty services.

**Crestwood Medical Center (Huntsville, AL)**

Crestwood Medical Center, also in Huntsville, is another hospital option for residents near 35621.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Crestwood Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** Like other hospitals, checking the hospital's website or using online tools for real-time updates on ER wait times is essential.
* **Specialty Centers:** Crestwood Medical Center offers various specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a women's center.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Crestwood Medical Center likely offers telehealth services, providing virtual access to care.
* **Overall Health Score (Crestwood Medical Center):** Crestwood Medical Center's 3-star CMS rating and specialty offerings make it a viable option, especially for those seeking specific services.

**Athens-Limestone Hospital (Athens, AL)**

Located to the west of Decatur, Athens-Limestone Hospital provides healthcare services to the Athens and surrounding communities.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Athens-Limestone Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor for immediate care. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools can provide up-to-date information.
* **Specialty Centers:** Athens-Limestone Hospital offers various specialty services.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Athens-Limestone Hospital likely offers telehealth services, providing virtual access to care.
* **Overall Health Score (Athens-Limestone Hospital):** Athens-Limestone Hospital's 3-star CMS rating and specialty offerings make it a viable option, especially for those seeking specific services.

**Methodology and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on the available data. It is crucial to consider the following:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While a valuable indicator, CMS star ratings are not the sole determinant of quality. They are based on a complex set of metrics and should be considered alongside other factors.
* **ER Wait Times:** These times are dynamic and can fluctuate based on patient volume and other factors. Always check for real-time updates.
* **Specialty Needs:** The best hospital for an individual depends on their specific healthcare needs. Patients with chronic conditions or requiring specialized care should research hospitals with relevant expertise.
* **Telehealth Access:** Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations.
* **Personal Preferences:** Patient experience, communication, and the overall environment of a hospital are also important factors. Consider reading patient reviews and visiting hospitals to assess the atmosphere.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.

**Comparative Analysis and Recommendations**

Based on the available information, Huntsville Hospital generally scores higher due to its 4-star CMS rating and extensive specialty centers. However, the commute time should be considered. Decatur Morgan Hospital provides a solid, local option with a 3-star rating and readily available services. Crestwood Medical Center and Athens-Limestone Hospital, with 3-star ratings, also offer viable alternatives.

**For residents of 35621, the following recommendations are offered:**

* **For Routine Care and Emergencies:** Decatur Morgan Hospital is a convenient and accessible option. Monitor ER wait times.
* **For Specialized Care:** Huntsville Hospital is recommended for specialized care, particularly for complex medical needs.
* **For Specific Specialties:** Research each hospital's specific services to determine the best fit for your healthcare needs.
* **For Telehealth:** Explore the telehealth offerings of each hospital for convenient access to care.

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Hospital data is subject to change; therefore, it is essential to verify information directly with the hospitals.