36474, Red Level, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 36474, Red Level, Alabama is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Overall Health Score Review: Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 36474**

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 36474 (Opp, Alabama), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions about their care. The score considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the rural nature of this area, the options are limited, but we aim to provide a clear picture of available resources.

**Understanding the Score**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite, reflecting a hospital's performance across multiple categories. We use publicly available data, primarily from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Hospital Compare, and other reliable sources. The score is not a single number but a nuanced assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. Factors considered include: patient safety, effectiveness of care, timeliness of care, patient experience, and efficiency.

**Primary Hospital: Mizell Memorial Hospital (Opp, AL)**

Mizell Memorial Hospital serves as the primary hospital for Opp and the surrounding area. It is a critical access hospital, designed to serve rural communities. Unfortunately, CMS star ratings are not assigned to critical access hospitals. Therefore, we must rely on other data points.

Mizell Memorial Hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital's website provides limited information on specific wait times. However, anecdotal evidence suggests wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. Local residents should contact the hospital directly for the most current ER wait time information.

Mizell Memorial Hospital has a limited selection of specialty centers. The hospital has a laboratory, radiology, and physical therapy department. The hospital has a community outreach program, offering various health education programs.

Telehealth services at Mizell Memorial Hospital are not widely advertised. Residents seeking telehealth options may need to explore other healthcare providers in the area.

**Secondary Options: Considerations Beyond Opp**

Given the limited options within Opp, residents may need to consider hospitals in nearby towns and cities. The distance, however, can impact accessibility, especially in emergencies.

**Southeast Alabama Medical Center (Dothan, AL)**

Located approximately 70 miles from Opp, Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) in Dothan is a larger regional hospital. SAMC is a well-regarded hospital and is a Level II Trauma Center. This designation indicates the hospital's ability to provide advanced trauma care.

SAMC has a CMS star rating, which is a valuable indicator of overall quality. SAMC has a 3-star rating from CMS. While not the highest possible rating, it reflects a generally acceptable level of care.

SAMC boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital is also equipped with advanced imaging technologies and offers a wide range of surgical services.

ER wait times at SAMC can vary. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time wait time information. Residents can check these resources before heading to the emergency room.

SAMC has a robust telehealth program. The hospital offers virtual visits for various specialties, providing convenient access to care for patients who may not be able to travel to the hospital.

**Flowers Hospital (Dothan, AL)**

Also located in Dothan, Flowers Hospital is another option for residents near Opp. Flowers Hospital is a large, well-equipped facility.

Flowers Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating suggests a generally acceptable level of care.

Flowers Hospital offers a wide range of specialty services, including cardiovascular care, neurosurgery, and women's health. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center and a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

ER wait times at Flowers Hospital are available through online resources. Residents should check these resources for up-to-date information.

Flowers Hospital has a strong telehealth presence, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services. This is an advantage for those seeking convenient access to healthcare.

**Other Considerations: Access to Care**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, several factors influence the overall health score for residents near 36474.

**Emergency Medical Services (EMS):** The quality and response time of local EMS are critical. Residents should be aware of the local emergency response protocols and contact information.

**Primary Care Physicians:** Access to primary care physicians is essential for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. Residents should establish a relationship with a primary care physician to ensure continuity of care.

**Specialty Care Access:** The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, can significantly impact health outcomes. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Dothan or Montgomery to access certain specialists.

**Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is a growing concern. Residents should be aware of local mental health resources and support services.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP code 36474 is influenced by the limited local options and the need to travel for more specialized care.

* **Mizell Memorial Hospital:** Serves as the primary local hospital, offering essential services. However, its critical access status means there is no CMS star rating, and specialty options are limited. Residents should check directly for ER wait times.
* **Southeast Alabama Medical Center (Dothan):** Offers a broader range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center and a 3-star CMS rating. It has comprehensive specialty centers and a strong telehealth program. ER wait times are available online.
* **Flowers Hospital (Dothan):** Another Dothan option with a 3-star CMS rating and a wide range of specialty services. It also offers telehealth options. ER wait times are available online.

**Recommendations:**

* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician:** This is crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions.
* **Familiarize yourself with the local EMS protocols:** Know how to contact emergency services and understand the response times in your area.
* **Consider travel for specialized care:** Be prepared to travel to Dothan or other larger cities for specialized medical services.
* **Utilize telehealth options:** Take advantage of telehealth services offered by hospitals and healthcare providers to access care conveniently.
* **Stay informed about hospital performance:** Regularly check CMS Hospital Compare and other resources for updates on hospital ratings and performance metrics.
* **Contact hospitals directly:** For the most current information on ER wait times, service availability, and other details, contact the hospitals directly.

The healthcare landscape near 36474 presents challenges due to its rural location. However, by understanding the available resources, proactively seeking care, and staying informed, residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The "Overall Health Score" is intended to serve as a starting point for this process, encouraging informed healthcare choices.