35649, Mooresville, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35649, Mooresville, Alabama is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hartselle, Alabama (ZIP Code 35649)

Hartselle, Alabama, nestled in the northern part of the state, relies on a network of hospitals and healthcare providers to serve its residents. Assessing the overall health of these options requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, specialized services, and patient experience. This review focuses on the major hospitals serving the area, providing a data-driven overview to help residents make informed healthcare decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access near Hartselle is Decatur Morgan Hospital, located in Decatur, approximately 15 minutes away. This facility is a significant player in the region, offering a comprehensive range of services. As of the latest available data, Decatur Morgan Hospital holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper into specific areas to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

Another crucial hospital option is Huntsville Hospital, located in Huntsville, approximately a 45-minute drive. Huntsville Hospital is a large, regional referral center and a Level I Trauma Center. They hold a **4-star CMS rating**, signifying above-average performance. This higher rating suggests better outcomes and a stronger focus on quality across a broader range of metrics compared to Decatur Morgan Hospital. Huntsville Hospital's size and resources allow it to offer a wider array of specialized services, making it a critical resource for complex medical needs.

**Emergency Room Performance and Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, publicly available data provides a general sense of performance. Both Decatur Morgan Hospital and Huntsville Hospital strive to provide timely emergency care. However, due to the complexity of emergency situations and fluctuating patient volumes, wait times can vary significantly. It's advisable to check current wait times on hospital websites or through online resources before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general medical care, the availability of specialized services is crucial. Decatur Morgan Hospital offers a range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. They have a dedicated cancer center and a cardiac catheterization lab. Huntsville Hospital, being a larger facility, boasts a more extensive network of specialty centers. These include advanced cardiology and heart surgery programs, a comprehensive cancer center, a dedicated neuroscience institute, and specialized pediatric care. The presence of these specialized centers means that residents with complex conditions can access advanced treatments closer to home.

**Telehealth and Digital Healthcare Initiatives:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. Both Decatur Morgan Hospital and Huntsville Hospital have embraced telehealth to varying degrees. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and access to educational resources. The availability and scope of telehealth services can vary. Residents should inquire directly with the hospitals about their telehealth offerings, including the types of appointments available and the technology used.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a vital component of overall health. CMS collects data on patient satisfaction through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. This survey assesses factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, and the cleanliness and quietness of the hospital environment. Analyzing HCAHPS scores provides insights into the patient's perspective of their care experience. Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews can also provide a more nuanced understanding of the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Specific Considerations for 35649 Residents:**

For residents of Hartselle (ZIP Code 35649), proximity is a key factor. Decatur Morgan Hospital is the closest major hospital, making it the primary choice for many. Huntsville Hospital, while further away, offers a broader range of specialized services and a higher CMS rating, making it a strong option for complex medical needs. The choice between the two often depends on the individual's specific healthcare requirements and the urgency of their situation.

**Other Healthcare Providers:**

In addition to the major hospitals, several other healthcare providers serve the Hartselle area. These include urgent care clinics, primary care physicians, and specialists. These providers play a crucial role in delivering routine care, managing chronic conditions, and providing preventative services. Residents should consider the availability and accessibility of these providers when assessing their overall healthcare options.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Transportation is a significant factor, especially for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations. Public transportation options in the Hartselle area are limited. Residents may need to rely on family, friends, or transportation services to access healthcare. The distance to Huntsville Hospital may pose a challenge for some.

**Data Limitations and Caveats:**

This review relies on publicly available data, which may have limitations. CMS star ratings are updated periodically, and the most recent data may not fully reflect current performance. ER wait times can fluctuate. Patient satisfaction scores are based on surveys, and individual experiences may vary. It's essential to consult with healthcare providers and conduct personal research to make informed decisions.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score for Hospitals Near 35649**

The overall health score for hospitals near Hartselle, Alabama, is generally positive, with a strong foundation of care provided by Decatur Morgan Hospital and Huntsville Hospital. Huntsville Hospital, with its higher CMS rating and broader range of specialized services, offers a higher level of care, particularly for complex medical needs. Decatur Morgan Hospital provides accessible and reliable care, especially for those in close proximity. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each facility when making their healthcare decisions. The availability of specialty services, telehealth options, and the patient experience are all important factors to consider. Continuous monitoring of performance metrics and patient feedback will help ensure that these hospitals continue to improve and meet the evolving healthcare needs of the Hartselle community. The ongoing development of telehealth initiatives and the expansion of specialized services will further enhance the overall health score for residents of the area.