36435, Coy, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 36435, Coy, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Brewton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36435)

Brewton, Alabama, nestled in the heart of Escambia County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents in the 36435 ZIP code have a limited, yet strategically positioned, selection of hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This review assesses the overall health score of these facilities, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other crucial metrics. Due to the rural nature of the area, the focus will be on the most accessible and relevant hospitals for residents.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape: Key Players**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Brewton area are a mix of community hospitals and regional centers. The closest options are often the most utilized, but understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for informed healthcare decisions. We'll examine the key players, focusing on their performance and offerings.

**D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital (Brewton, AL): A Community Anchor**

D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital, located directly in Brewton, serves as the primary healthcare hub for the immediate area. As a critical access hospital, it plays a vital role in providing essential services to the community. While it doesn't receive a CMS star rating due to its critical access designation (which has different evaluation criteria), its local presence is undeniable.

The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and various outpatient clinics. Its emergency room is a crucial resource for residents, and understanding its performance is key. While specific ER wait time data isn't readily available from public sources, local reports and patient feedback suggest a generally moderate wait time, reflective of the hospital's role as a first-line responder. The hospital's website and local directories are the best sources for current wait times.

D.W. McMillan provides access to general surgery, internal medicine, and other core specialties. It is a vital resource for the community, providing access to local medical care. The hospital's commitment to local healthcare is evident in its long-standing presence and community involvement.

**Atmore Community Hospital (Atmore, AL): A Neighboring Option**

Located approximately 20 miles south of Brewton, Atmore Community Hospital offers another option for residents. Similar to D.W. McMillan, it is a critical access hospital. This designation highlights its importance in providing essential services to a rural population.

Atmore Community Hospital’s ER is another option for those in the 36435 area. While specific wait times are not publicly available, the hospital is a reliable choice for emergency care. The hospital offers a range of services, including inpatient care, outpatient clinics, and various specialty services.

**Mobile Infirmary (Mobile, AL): A Regional Powerhouse (Approximately 90 miles)**

While a significant distance from Brewton, Mobile Infirmary, located in Mobile, Alabama, is a major regional medical center. Its size and scope offer a wide range of specialized services that are unavailable in the immediate Brewton area.

Mobile Infirmary boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a solid overall performance based on quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. This is a strong indicator of the hospital's commitment to quality.

The hospital's emergency room is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. While travel time is a factor, Mobile Infirmary is a valuable option for complex medical needs. ER wait times can vary, but the hospital generally handles a high volume of patients.

Mobile Infirmary features specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. These specialized services are a significant draw for patients requiring advanced care.

**USA Health University Hospital (Mobile, AL): Another Regional Resource (Approximately 90 miles)**

Also in Mobile, USA Health University Hospital serves as another major regional medical center. It is a teaching hospital, affiliated with the University of South Alabama, and is known for its advanced medical capabilities.

USA Health University Hospital currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects its overall performance in various quality metrics.

The hospital's ER is a major trauma center, equipped to handle critical medical situations. ER wait times can vary, but the hospital is a resource for complex cases.

USA Health University Hospital offers a wide array of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart center, and a transplant center. The hospital's affiliation with the university provides access to cutting-edge research and advanced medical technologies.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in rural areas like Brewton, providing access to healthcare professionals without the need for long-distance travel. Both D.W. McMillan and Atmore Community Hospital are beginning to incorporate telehealth services, although the scope and availability vary.

The regional hospitals in Mobile, such as Mobile Infirmary and USA Health University Hospital, have significantly expanded their telehealth offerings. This is particularly beneficial for residents needing specialist consultations or follow-up appointments. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals.

**Specialty Care: Accessing Specialized Services**

The availability of specialty care is a critical factor in assessing the overall health score. While D.W. McMillan and Atmore Community Hospital offer core services, residents may need to travel to Mobile for specialized care.

Mobile Infirmary and USA Health University Hospital provide a wide range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. These centers offer advanced treatments and specialized expertise.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Metric**

ER wait times are a key indicator of a hospital's efficiency and responsiveness. While specific wait time data for D.W. McMillan and Atmore Community Hospital is not readily available, it's important to consider the potential wait times at the regional hospitals in Mobile.

Mobile Infirmary and USA Health University Hospital, being larger facilities, can experience longer wait times, especially during peak hours. However, both hospitals are equipped to handle high volumes of patients and prioritize emergency cases.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is an important factor in the overall health score. CMS star ratings incorporate patient satisfaction scores, reflecting the patient's experience with the hospital.

Mobile Infirmary's 4-star rating indicates a positive patient experience. USA Health University Hospital's 3-star rating suggests room for improvement in patient satisfaction.

**Overall Health Score Summary: Balancing Proximity and Specialization**

The overall health score for residents of the 36435 ZIP code reflects a balance between proximity and access to specialized care. D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital and Atmore Community Hospital provide essential local services and are the primary healthcare providers for the area. However, residents requiring specialized care may need to travel to Mobile.

**Key Considerations:**

* **Proximity:** D.W. McMillan and Atmore Community Hospital offer convenient access to essential medical services.
* **Specialty Care:** Mobile Infirmary and USA Health University Hospital provide access to advanced medical specialties.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are expanding, offering a convenient way to access healthcare professionals.
* **ER Wait Times:** Be prepared for potential wait times, especially at regional hospitals.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider patient satisfaction ratings when choosing a hospital.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 36435 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options. The local hospitals provide essential services, while regional hospitals offer specialized care. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. The overall health score is good, but it is important to be aware of the trade-offs between proximity and access to specialized services.