36723, Boykin, Alabama Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 36723, Boykin, Alabama is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 36723

The residents of ZIP Code 36723, encompassing the city of Demopolis, Alabama, and surrounding areas, have a range of healthcare options available, though the landscape is dominated by a few key players. Assessing the overall health score of these facilities requires a deep dive into factors like patient outcomes, access to care, and the quality of services offered. This review will analyze the prominent hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses, and providing a comprehensive overview for informed healthcare decisions.

**Demopolis's Primary Healthcare Hub: Whitfield Regional Hospital**

Whitfield Regional Hospital (WRH) in Demopolis serves as the primary healthcare provider for the immediate area. WRH is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives specific federal funding to support rural healthcare needs. While this designation can be beneficial, it also means the hospital may have fewer resources and specialists compared to larger, urban facilities.

WRH's performance is reflected in publicly available data. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) does not currently assign a star rating to Whitfield Regional Hospital. This doesn't necessarily indicate poor performance, but it does mean the hospital doesn't meet the criteria for a star rating, which could be due to factors like the number of patients seen or the availability of specific data.

WRH offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. ER wait times are a crucial metric. While specific real-time data is not always readily available, it is advisable to contact the hospital directly or consult online resources like ERwaitTimes.com to gauge current wait times.

Specialty care availability at WRH is likely limited compared to larger hospitals. Residents needing specialized treatment may need to travel to facilities in larger cities. Telehealth services could potentially bridge some gaps in care, but information regarding WRH's telehealth capabilities should be obtained directly from the hospital.

**Expanding the Scope: Exploring Hospitals in Neighboring Cities**

Given the limited scope of services at WRH, residents of 36723 often look to hospitals in nearby cities for more comprehensive care. Two key locations to consider are Tuscaloosa and Meridian, Mississippi.

**Tuscaloosa: A Hub of Specialized Care**

Tuscaloosa, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Demopolis, offers a significantly wider range of healthcare options. The flagship hospital in Tuscaloosa is DCH Regional Medical Center. DCH is a large, well-equipped hospital with a wide array of specialties and services.

DCH Regional Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a mixed performance profile, indicating areas of strength and areas needing improvement. The CMS star ratings are based on a composite score considering patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

DCH has a robust emergency department, and while specific wait times fluctuate, it is advisable to consult online resources like ERwaitTimes.com for real-time information. The hospital boasts specialized centers for cardiology, oncology, and women's health, providing access to advanced treatments and technologies.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. DCH likely offers telehealth options for certain specialties, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. Information on specific telehealth services should be available on the DCH website or by contacting the hospital directly.

**Meridian, Mississippi: A Regional Healthcare Destination**

Meridian, Mississippi, is another option, located approximately a 2-hour drive from Demopolis. The primary hospital in Meridian is Anderson Regional Medical Center. Anderson Regional is a comprehensive medical center serving a wide geographic area.

Anderson Regional Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating, similar to DCH, suggests a mixed performance profile. It's crucial to delve deeper into the specific areas contributing to the rating to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

Anderson Regional has a busy emergency department. ER wait times can vary, and it's recommended to check real-time information on ERwaitTimes.com or similar resources. The hospital provides a broad range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer care.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important. Anderson Regional likely offers telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists. Information on specific telehealth offerings can be found on the hospital's website or by contacting them directly.

**Comparing the Options: A Critical Analysis**

When comparing the healthcare options for residents of 36723, several factors come into play. Whitfield Regional Hospital serves as the local access point, providing essential services. However, for specialized care, residents must consider traveling to larger hospitals in Tuscaloosa or Meridian.

DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa offers a higher level of specialization and a broader range of services compared to Whitfield Regional. The 3-star CMS rating suggests a mixed performance profile, and patients should research specific areas of concern based on their healthcare needs.

Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian also offers a comprehensive range of services. The 3-star CMS rating necessitates careful consideration of the hospital's performance in areas relevant to the patient's specific needs.

**Access and Affordability: Key Considerations**

Beyond the quality of care, access and affordability are crucial. The distance to hospitals in Tuscaloosa and Meridian can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs are also important factors. Patients should check with their insurance providers to understand the coverage available at each hospital and the potential costs of care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth services have the potential to improve access to care for residents of 36723. Telehealth allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. The availability and quality of telehealth services vary by hospital. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when considering their healthcare choices.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

The overall health score for hospitals near ZIP Code 36723 is complex. Whitfield Regional Hospital provides essential local services, but residents may need to travel for specialized care. DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa and Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian offer more comprehensive options, but with the added challenges of distance and potential costs.

Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty availability, and telehealth options. Contacting the hospitals directly to gather specific information about services and wait times is highly recommended. Ultimately, the best healthcare choice depends on individual needs and preferences. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, residents of 36723 can make informed decisions and access the care they need. The ongoing evolution of telehealth and the potential for improvements in local healthcare infrastructure may further enhance the overall health score for this community in the future.