32044, Hampton, Florida Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 32044, Hampton, Florida is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Overall Health Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 32044 (Fernandina Beach, Florida)**

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an overall health score assessment of hospitals near Fernandina Beach, Florida (ZIP code 32044), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability.

**The Landscape: Geographic Considerations**

Fernandina Beach, a coastal community, has limited immediate hospital options. Residents often travel to Jacksonville, Florida, for more comprehensive care. Proximity, therefore, is a crucial factor in this review.

**Flagship Hospital: Baptist Medical Center Nassau**

Baptist Medical Center Nassau, located in Fernandina Beach, is the primary hospital serving the immediate area. It is part of the Baptist Health system, a major healthcare provider in Northeast Florida. As of late 2023, Baptist Medical Center Nassau has a CMS star rating of three stars. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a three-star rating indicates average performance, it’s important to delve deeper into specific areas.

**Baptist Medical Center Nassau: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Baptist Nassau has a well-regarded emergency department, crucial for a coastal community. However, specific ER wait times fluctuate, so it's essential to check current wait times via the hospital’s website or online platforms like Google Maps. The hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It also has a labor and delivery unit, serving the needs of expectant mothers in the area. Telehealth services are available, providing patients with remote access to healthcare professionals for consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital’s website provides detailed information on telehealth offerings.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Baptist Nassau**

Baptist Medical Center Nassau offers several specialty centers. The hospital has a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab, providing interventional cardiology services. Orthopedic services include joint replacement and sports medicine. The hospital also offers a comprehensive cancer care program, often in collaboration with the Baptist Health system's larger cancer centers in Jacksonville.

**Comparing to Jacksonville: The Larger Healthcare Ecosystem**

Given Fernandina Beach's proximity to Jacksonville, the healthcare landscape extends beyond Baptist Medical Center Nassau. Jacksonville offers a wider array of hospitals and specialized services. This necessitates a comparative analysis for residents seeking more complex care.

**Flagship Hospital: UF Health Jacksonville**

UF Health Jacksonville is a major academic medical center in Jacksonville. It is a Level I trauma center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies. UF Health Jacksonville has a CMS star rating of three stars. The hospital is known for its advanced research and clinical trials.

**UF Health Jacksonville: Strengths and Weaknesses**

UF Health Jacksonville's strengths lie in its comprehensive services and specialized care. It houses numerous specialty centers, including a renowned cancer center, a transplant center, and a comprehensive stroke center. ER wait times can vary, particularly during peak hours, so it is advisable to check current wait times online. The hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering a wide range of virtual consultations and remote monitoring services.

**Specialty Centers and Services: UF Health Jacksonville**

UF Health Jacksonville boasts a large number of specialty centers. The UF Health Cancer Center provides advanced cancer treatments, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The hospital's transplant center performs various organ transplants. The stroke center offers rapid intervention and rehabilitation services. The hospital also has specialized centers for cardiology, neurology, and other medical specialties.

**Flagship Hospital: Mayo Clinic Jacksonville**

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville is a world-renowned medical center. It is known for its high-quality care and advanced medical technologies. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville has a CMS star rating of four stars.

**Mayo Clinic Jacksonville: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville is recognized for its excellence in patient care and its focus on research. The hospital has a reputation for attracting highly skilled physicians and offering cutting-edge treatments. ER wait times are generally well-managed, but it is always advisable to check current wait times. The hospital has a strong emphasis on patient experience, with a focus on personalized care. Telehealth services are available, allowing patients to access Mayo Clinic specialists remotely.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Mayo Clinic Jacksonville**

Mayo Clinic Jacksonville offers a wide range of specialty centers. The hospital is known for its expertise in cardiology, neurology, and oncology. It also has specialized centers for digestive diseases, endocrinology, and other medical specialties. The hospital's research programs contribute to advancements in medical treatments.

**Other Hospitals in Jacksonville: Considerations**

Several other hospitals in Jacksonville provide healthcare options for residents near 32044. These include:

* **St. Vincent's Medical Center Riverside:** Part of Ascension Health, St. Vincent's offers a range of services and has a focus on community health.
* **Memorial Hospital Jacksonville:** A large hospital with a wide range of services, including a Level II trauma center.
* **Ascension St. Vincent's Southside:** Another hospital within the Ascension Health system, providing comprehensive care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, especially in emergency situations. Checking current wait times on hospital websites or through online platforms is crucial. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for residents in more remote areas. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare professionals remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. Hospitals near 32044 offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals.

**Access to Specialists: A Key Consideration**

Access to specialists is a critical factor in healthcare quality. Jacksonville offers a broader range of specialists than Fernandina Beach. Patients with complex medical conditions may need to travel to Jacksonville to see a specialist.

**Overall Health Score Summary for Hospitals Near 32044**

* **Baptist Medical Center Nassau:** Serves as the primary local hospital. Offers a range of services, but residents may need to seek specialized care in Jacksonville. Three-star CMS rating.
* **UF Health Jacksonville:** A major academic medical center with comprehensive services and a Level I trauma center. Three-star CMS rating.
* **Mayo Clinic Jacksonville:** A world-renowned medical center known for its high-quality care and research. Four-star CMS rating.
* **Other Jacksonville Hospitals:** Offer additional healthcare options, providing residents with choices based on their specific needs.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Residents of Fernandina Beach (32044) have access to a range of healthcare options. Baptist Medical Center Nassau provides local care, while Jacksonville offers a broader array of services and specialists. When choosing a hospital, residents should consider factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability. By evaluating these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It is also recommended to research individual physician reviews and consult with primary care physicians for personalized recommendations. Healthcare needs are unique, and the best choice depends on individual circumstances and preferences.