35640, Hartselle, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35640, Hartselle, Alabama is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 35640

The health of residents near ZIP code 35640, encompassing the city of Hartselle, Alabama, and surrounding areas, is significantly influenced by the quality and accessibility of local healthcare. This review assesses the major hospitals in the vicinity, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on factors including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, telehealth availability, and other relevant metrics. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking informed healthcare choices.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in North Alabama**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 35640 area are concentrated in Decatur and Huntsville, offering a range of services from general care to specialized treatments. Proximity to these larger cities provides access to more advanced medical technologies and a broader spectrum of specialists, a critical consideration for residents in need of complex care.

**Decatur General Hospital (Decatur, AL)**

Located in Decatur, approximately 15 minutes from Hartselle, Decatur General Hospital (DGH), part of the Huntsville Hospital Health System, is a major player in the region. DGH is a 262-bed facility providing a comprehensive range of services. Unfortunately, as of the latest data available, Decatur General Hospital does not have a CMS Star Rating. This rating, assigned by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a crucial indicator of hospital quality, reflecting patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

DGH's Emergency Department (ED) is a vital resource for the community. The average ER wait time at DGH fluctuates, but it's essential to check current wait times on their website or through online resources like Google Maps before heading to the ED. Long wait times can indicate high patient volume or staffing challenges, impacting the timeliness of care.

DGH offers specialized services, including a comprehensive cardiology program, a stroke center, and a cancer center. They also provide a range of surgical services, including robotic surgery. The hospital has a strong focus on women's health, with a dedicated obstetrics and gynecology unit. Telehealth services are available at DGH, offering patients the convenience of virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The availability and scope of these telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Huntsville Hospital (Huntsville, AL)**

Approximately a 40-minute drive from Hartselle, Huntsville Hospital is a flagship facility within the Huntsville Hospital Health System. As of the latest available data, Huntsville Hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating. While not the highest possible rating, this indicates a level of quality and patient care that is considered average. The hospital's CMS rating should be considered in conjunction with other factors, such as patient reviews and specific service offerings.

Huntsville Hospital's Emergency Department is a high-volume facility, serving a large population. ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of patient cases. Checking real-time wait times through online resources is highly recommended.

Huntsville Hospital offers a vast array of specialized services, including a Level I Trauma Center, a comprehensive cardiovascular program, and a nationally recognized cancer center. The hospital also has specialized units for pediatrics, neurology, and orthopedics. They are equipped with advanced medical technologies, including robotic surgery and advanced imaging capabilities. Huntsville Hospital has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists across various disciplines. This is particularly beneficial for residents of surrounding areas, providing access to specialists without the need for extensive travel.

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

Also located in Huntsville, approximately a 40-minute drive from Hartselle, Crestwood Medical Center is another significant healthcare provider in the region. Crestwood Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating, according to the latest available data. This rating should be considered along with other quality indicators when making healthcare decisions.

Crestwood Medical Center's Emergency Department is another option for residents of the 35640 area. ER wait times can fluctuate, so it is advisable to check current wait times before seeking care.

Crestwood offers a range of specialized services, including a heart center, a stroke center, and a women's health center. They also have a dedicated surgical department and offer various imaging services. Crestwood has been expanding its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. The scope and availability of these services should be confirmed with the hospital directly.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Clinics and Outpatient Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the 35640 area and surrounding regions have a network of specialty clinics and outpatient services. These facilities offer focused care in areas such as cardiology, dermatology, and physical therapy. These clinics often provide more specialized expertise and can be a valuable resource for specific medical needs.

**Telehealth: A Growing Force in Healthcare**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for residents in rural areas. Huntsville Hospital and Decatur General Hospital, along with many specialty clinics, offer telehealth services, enabling patients to access healthcare remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. The availability and scope of telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the individual provider.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Evaluating the healthcare options near 35640 requires a multi-faceted approach. Decatur General Hospital, while lacking a CMS Star Rating in the latest data, provides essential services and is a convenient option for Hartselle residents. Huntsville Hospital and Crestwood Medical Center, both with 3-star CMS ratings, offer a broader range of specialized services and advanced technologies.

* **For Emergency Care:** Check real-time ER wait times at all facilities before heading to the ED. Consider the severity of the condition and the proximity of the hospital.
* **For Specialized Care:** Huntsville Hospital and Crestwood Medical Center offer a wider range of specialized services. Consider the specific needs and the expertise of the specialists available.
* **For Routine Care:** Explore local clinics and primary care physicians in Hartselle and the surrounding areas.
* **For Telehealth:** Inquire about telehealth options with your primary care physician and the hospitals mentioned above.

**Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for the 35640 area is "Good." The presence of multiple hospitals, including Huntsville Hospital and Crestwood Medical Center, provides access to a range of services and specialists. The growth of telehealth services enhances access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas. However, the lack of a CMS Star Rating for Decatur General Hospital, and the 3-star ratings for Huntsville Hospital and Crestwood Medical Center, suggest room for improvement in overall quality. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs, research specific services, and check wait times before making decisions. The continuous evolution of healthcare in the region necessitates ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure optimal health outcomes for the community.