35987, Steele, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 35987, Steele, Alabama is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 35987 (Rainbow City, AL)

The health landscape surrounding Rainbow City, Alabama (ZIP code 35987) offers a mix of local community hospitals and access to larger regional medical centers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review assesses the overall health score of the available options, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and overall patient experience. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Local Considerations: Gadsden Regional Medical Center**

Gadsden Regional Medical Center, located in Gadsden, AL, is a primary option for residents of 35987. It's a 270-bed facility that provides a range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. As of the latest available data, Gadsden Regional Medical Center holds a CMS star rating of 2 stars. This rating reflects a performance below the national average when considering factors like mortality rates, safety of care, and patient experience.

**ER Wait Times and Emergency Services:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing a hospital's responsiveness. While specific real-time data fluctuates, general trends indicate that ER wait times at Gadsden Regional Medical Center can be variable, potentially exceeding the national average at certain times. This is an important consideration for patients seeking immediate medical attention. The hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle a variety of medical emergencies, but the efficiency of care can be influenced by factors like patient volume and staffing levels.

**Specialty Services at Gadsden Regional:**

Gadsden Regional offers several specialty services, including cardiology, with a focus on heart disease treatment and prevention. The hospital also has an orthopedic department that provides care for bone and joint issues. Additionally, it has a surgical department that performs various procedures. The availability of these specialty services within the local area can be a significant advantage for residents of 35987, reducing the need to travel long distances for care.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, and Gadsden Regional has begun to integrate telehealth services. While the extent of these services may vary, telehealth can provide patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, improving access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.

**Patient Experience and Reviews:**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. Online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys provide insights into the quality of care provided. While Gadsden Regional Medical Center receives mixed reviews, with some patients praising the staff and services, others express concerns about wait times and communication. This highlights the importance of considering individual experiences when making healthcare decisions.

**Regional Options: UAB Hospital (Birmingham)**

For more complex medical needs, residents of 35987 often look to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, AL, approximately 60 miles away. UAB Hospital is a major academic medical center, a flagship hospital, and consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States. It boasts a CMS star rating of 4 stars, reflecting a higher level of performance than Gadsden Regional.

**UAB Hospital's Strengths:**

UAB Hospital excels in numerous specialties, including cancer care, cardiology, neurology, and transplant services. Its comprehensive cancer center provides advanced treatments and research opportunities. The hospital's cardiology program is nationally recognized, offering cutting-edge procedures and treatments. The neurology department specializes in treating complex neurological conditions. UAB's transplant program is also a leader in the field, performing a high volume of successful transplants.

**ER Wait Times at UAB:**

Given its status as a major referral center, UAB Hospital's ER can experience longer wait times than smaller community hospitals. However, the hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle a wide range of critical medical conditions, and the staff is experienced in providing rapid and efficient care.

**Telehealth at UAB:**

UAB Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering a wide array of services, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and specialized telehealth clinics. This expanded access to care is particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility issues.

**Other Regional Considerations: Riverview Regional Medical Center (Gadsden)**

Riverview Regional Medical Center, also located in Gadsden, offers another option for residents of 35987. This hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical care.

**Riverview's Strengths:**

Riverview Regional Medical Center has a focus on providing comprehensive care to the community. The hospital has a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Riverview is known for its patient-centered approach, with a focus on providing personalized care and building strong relationships with patients.

**ER Wait Times at Riverview:**

ER wait times at Riverview Regional Medical Center are generally competitive with other hospitals in the area. The hospital's emergency department is well-equipped and staffed to handle a variety of medical emergencies.

**Telehealth at Riverview:**

Riverview Regional Medical Center has also integrated telehealth services, providing patients with access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring. The hospital continues to expand its telehealth offerings to improve access to care.

**Patient Experience and Reviews:**

Patient reviews for Riverview Regional Medical Center are generally positive, with patients often praising the staff and the quality of care. This positive patient experience is an important factor when considering healthcare options.

**Comparing the Options:**

Choosing the best hospital near 35987 depends on individual needs and preferences. Gadsden Regional Medical Center offers convenient local access but has a lower CMS star rating and potentially longer ER wait times. UAB Hospital provides access to advanced specialty care but requires travel and may have longer ER wait times. Riverview Regional Medical Center provides a good balance of local access and quality care.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

When making a decision, consider the following factors:

* **Severity of the Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies or complex medical conditions, UAB Hospital may be the best choice due to its specialized services and expertise.
* **Convenience and Proximity:** For less serious conditions, Gadsden Regional or Riverview Regional may be more convenient due to their proximity.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require care from a specific specialty, research the hospitals that offer those services and their reputation in that area.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Read online reviews and consider the experiences of other patients when making your decision.
* **Telehealth Availability:** If you prefer virtual consultations or remote monitoring, consider the telehealth capabilities of each hospital.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for hospitals near 35987 is a mixed bag. While local options like Gadsden Regional Medical Center offer convenience, they may not provide the same level of specialized care or positive patient experience as regional centers like UAB Hospital. Riverview Regional Medical Center offers a good balance of local access and quality care. Residents of 35987 should carefully weigh their individual needs and preferences when selecting a healthcare provider. The availability of telehealth services across multiple facilities improves access to care, particularly for those in rural areas. Remember to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and guidance.