36353, Newville, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 36353, Newville, Alabama is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36353)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36353) area, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to assist residents in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment. It weighs publicly available data, including Medicare's Hospital Compare star ratings, reported wait times, and the availability of specialized services. It's crucial to remember that this is a snapshot based on available data and doesn't replace personal medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

The primary hospital serving Enterprise is **Medical Center Enterprise (MCE)**. MCE is a 131-bed facility and is a critical access hospital. Critical access hospitals are designated as such by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide essential healthcare services to rural communities. As a critical access hospital, MCE does not receive a CMS star rating. However, it is subject to rigorous quality standards and undergoes regular evaluations.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency. While publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate, MCE's reported median ER wait time, based on recent data, is approximately 20-30 minutes. This is a key factor to consider, especially in urgent situations. It is important to note that this is an average and individual experiences may vary.

**Specialized Services and Centers:**

MCE offers a range of specialized services. The hospital has a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab, providing interventional cardiology services. They also have a wound care center, offering advanced treatment for chronic wounds. Additionally, MCE provides comprehensive surgical services, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and urology. The hospital has a labor and delivery unit, providing obstetric care. MCE also houses a rehabilitation center for patients recovering from illness or injury.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. MCE has begun to expand its telehealth offerings. The hospital provides telehealth consultations for certain specialties, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty traveling to larger medical centers. The specific telehealth services offered are subject to change, so it's best to check with MCE directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond MCE, residents of the 36353 ZIP code may also seek care at hospitals in nearby cities, such as Dothan. **Southeast Health Medical Center** in Dothan, approximately 30 minutes from Enterprise, is a larger facility with a broader range of services. Southeast Health has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance on a variety of quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

**Southeast Health's Emergency Room:**

Southeast Health's ER sees a higher volume of patients than MCE. Reported median ER wait times at Southeast Health tend to be longer, averaging around 45-60 minutes. This can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of patient cases.

**Specialized Services at Southeast Health:**

Southeast Health offers a wider array of specialized services than MCE. The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center, providing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other cancer treatments. They also have a dedicated heart center, offering advanced cardiac care, including open-heart surgery. Southeast Health has a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle serious injuries. They have a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), providing specialized care for premature or critically ill newborns.

**Telehealth at Southeast Health:**

Southeast Health has a robust telehealth program. The hospital offers telehealth consultations across numerous specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. This allows patients to access specialist care remotely, reducing the need for travel.

**Comparing the Options:**

The choice of hospital depends on individual needs. For routine care and less complex medical issues, MCE in Enterprise offers convenient access. For more specialized care and complex medical conditions, Southeast Health in Dothan provides a wider range of services, though with potentially longer wait times.

**Patient Experience:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare. CMS star ratings include patient experience scores, reflecting patient satisfaction with various aspects of their care. Both MCE and Southeast Health receive feedback from patients. Patient reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience.

**Access to Specialists:**

Access to specialists is a critical factor. Both MCE and Southeast Health have affiliations with various specialists. Patients may need to be referred to specialists depending on their needs. It's important to discuss specialist referrals with your primary care physician.

**Cost and Insurance:**

Healthcare costs and insurance coverage are significant considerations. The cost of care can vary depending on the services provided and the patient's insurance plan. It's essential to understand your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses before receiving medical care. Hospitals often provide information on billing and financial assistance programs.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36353) offers a range of options. Medical Center Enterprise provides convenient access to essential services, while Southeast Health in Dothan offers a broader spectrum of specialized care. The "Overall Health Score" considers various factors, including quality ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Residents should weigh these factors carefully, considering their individual healthcare needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your physician for personalized medical advice and recommendations. This review serves as a starting point for informed decision-making in navigating the healthcare system. The best hospital for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances.