36344, Hartford, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 36344, Hartford, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36344)

Navigating healthcare choices can be daunting. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals serving the Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36344) area, focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your health. We'll examine hospital quality, accessibility, and specific services, offering an "Overall Health Score" perspective.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus is on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Enterprise. This includes facilities in Enterprise itself, as well as those in nearby cities like Dothan and Ozark. The review will consider publicly available data, including information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable sources.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

A crucial indicator of hospital quality is the CMS Star Rating system. This system assigns hospitals a rating from one to five stars, based on various quality measures. Unfortunately, not all hospitals near Enterprise have a CMS star rating, as participation is voluntary.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** This is a major regional player and the closest large hospital. Southeast Health is a comprehensive healthcare system offering a wide range of services. Information on their CMS star rating is readily available on the CMS website. The hospital has a reputation for quality care, and is a regional referral center for complex medical cases.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise is the closest hospital to the 36344 ZIP code. As a community hospital, it provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and various specialty clinics. Information on their CMS star rating is readily available on the CMS website.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for anyone needing immediate medical attention. Shorter wait times often indicate efficient operations and prompt care. Publicly available data on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites and through online resources.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** ER wait times at Southeast Health are generally available, but can fluctuate depending on patient volume and the severity of cases. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for current estimates, especially during peak hours.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise's ER wait times are also publicly available. As a smaller facility, wait times may be shorter than at larger hospitals, but this can vary. Checking their website or calling the ER directly is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is a crucial factor in overall healthcare quality. This includes centers for cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other specialized areas.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Southeast Health boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. These include a robust cardiology program, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures. Their cancer center provides comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The hospital also has a strong orthopedic program, offering surgical and non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise offers a more limited range of specialty services compared to Southeast Health. However, they provide essential services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. Patients requiring highly specialized care may be referred to Southeast Health or other regional facilities.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Hospitals are increasingly investing in telehealth platforms.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Southeast Health has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. They likely offer telehealth consultations for various specialties, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. Details about their specific telehealth services can be found on their website.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise may also offer telehealth services, although the scope may be more limited than at Southeast Health. Checking their website or contacting their patient services department is recommended to inquire about their telehealth options.

**Hospital Accessibility and Patient Experience:**

Accessibility is a key factor, considering factors like location, parking, and ease of navigation within the hospital. Patient experience is also crucial, encompassing factors like staff communication, cleanliness, and overall satisfaction.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Southeast Health is a large facility and can be more complex to navigate. Ample parking is available, but finding a spot may be challenging during peak hours. The hospital website provides detailed information about navigating the facility. Patient experience surveys are available, and the hospital likely uses this feedback to improve its services.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise, being a smaller community hospital, may be easier to navigate. Parking is generally readily available. Patient experience is a priority, and the hospital likely has processes in place to gather and address patient feedback.

**Specific Services and Programs:**

Beyond general services, hospitals often offer specialized programs. These can include stroke centers, maternity services, and rehabilitation programs.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Southeast Health has a dedicated stroke center, providing rapid diagnosis and treatment for stroke patients. Their maternity services include labor and delivery suites, and a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). They also offer comprehensive rehabilitation services.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise provides maternity services and may offer rehabilitation programs. However, the scope of these programs may be more limited than at Southeast Health.

**Financial Considerations and Transparency:**

Healthcare costs are a significant concern. Hospitals are increasingly required to provide price transparency information.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Southeast Health is likely to provide price estimates for common procedures. Checking their website or contacting their billing department is recommended to obtain this information.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise should also provide price transparency information. Patients are encouraged to inquire about costs before receiving services.

**Community Health Initiatives and Outreach:**

Hospitals often engage in community health initiatives, such as health screenings, educational programs, and support groups.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Southeast Health likely participates in community health outreach programs. Details about these initiatives can be found on their website or by contacting their community relations department.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise may also be involved in community health programs, tailored to the specific needs of the Enterprise community.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment, considering multiple factors: CMS Star Ratings (if available), ER wait times, the breadth of specialty services, telehealth offerings, patient experience, and financial transparency.

**Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan):** Based on the available information, Southeast Health is a strong contender for the highest "Overall Health Score" in the region. Its comprehensive services, strong reputation, and likely good CMS rating position it as a leading healthcare provider. However, the score is influenced by ER wait times and patient experience.

**Medical Center Enterprise (Enterprise):** Medical Center Enterprise provides essential healthcare services and is the closest hospital to the 36344 ZIP code. Its "Overall Health Score" is influenced by the range of specialty services and its CMS star rating.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital involves careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. This review provides a starting point for assessing the hospitals near Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36344). Patients should research specific services, check ER wait times, and consider their individual health needs when making their decision. Contacting the hospitals directly to ask questions and gather further information is always recommended. The "Overall Health Score" is a guide, but the best choice is the one that best meets your individual healthcare needs.