32174, Ormond Beach, Florida Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 32174, Ormond Beach, Florida is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 32174

Finding the right healthcare provider is a critical decision, and for residents near ZIP code 32174 (Palatka, Florida), understanding the landscape of available options is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from hospital quality ratings to accessibility and specialized services. We'll delve into the key players, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to help you make informed choices.

**The Primary Contenders: Putnam Community Medical Center and Beyond**

The most immediate healthcare option for residents in the 32174 area is **Putnam Community Medical Center (PCMC)**, located directly within Palatka. PCMC serves as a critical access hospital, offering a range of services. However, its performance warrants a closer look. PCMC currently holds a **2-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience, indicates areas where the hospital could improve. Specifically, PCMC’s performance on measures like infection rates and readmission rates should be carefully considered.

Beyond PCMC, residents have access to hospitals in neighboring cities, particularly Gainesville and Jacksonville. These larger metropolitan areas offer a broader spectrum of specialized care and often boast higher CMS star ratings.

**Gainesville: The University of Florida Health System Advantage**

Gainesville, approximately an hour's drive west, is home to the **University of Florida Health Shands Hospital**, a flagship facility within the **UF Health System**. Shands Hospital is a major tertiary care center and consistently earns high marks. It is a **5-star CMS-rated hospital**, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. This high rating is a significant advantage, indicating superior performance across a wide range of metrics. Shands is a comprehensive facility, offering advanced treatments and specialized centers.

**UF Health Shands Hospital** houses numerous specialized centers, including the **UF Health Cancer Center**, which provides comprehensive cancer care, including advanced therapies and clinical trials. The hospital also features the **UF Health Heart & Vascular Hospital**, known for its expertise in cardiovascular disease. For those needing neurological care, the **UF Health Neuromedicine Hospital** offers advanced diagnostics and treatments. The sheer breadth of specialized services makes Shands a strong contender for complex medical needs.

**Jacksonville: A Hub for Specialized Care**

Jacksonville, about an hour's drive north, presents another significant healthcare option. The city hosts several major hospitals, including **Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville** and **Mayo Clinic Jacksonville**.

**Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville** is a large, multi-campus system, with its flagship hospital holding a **4-star CMS rating**. Baptist offers a wide range of services, including a renowned heart institute, a comprehensive cancer center, and a robust network of primary care physicians. Its size and scope make it a convenient option for many residents.

**Mayo Clinic Jacksonville** is a highly regarded facility and part of the prestigious Mayo Clinic system. While CMS doesn't provide star ratings for all Mayo Clinic locations, the Jacksonville facility is known for its excellence in patient care, research, and innovation. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville specializes in complex and rare conditions, attracting patients from across the country. Its expertise in areas like cardiology, neurology, and oncology is particularly noteworthy.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Crucial Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. At PCMC, wait times can fluctuate, and it's essential to check current wait times before seeking emergency care. Real-time wait time data can often be found on hospital websites or through online resources.

In Gainesville and Jacksonville, ER wait times are generally longer than at smaller facilities. However, the availability of specialized services and the expertise of the medical staff may outweigh the longer wait times for some patients. Both UF Health Shands and Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville often have publicly available wait time information, allowing patients to make informed decisions. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville also provides wait time data.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for residents in rural areas. PCMC offers telehealth options, including virtual visits with specialists and remote monitoring programs. These services can improve access to care and reduce the need for in-person visits.

UF Health and Baptist Health also offer robust telehealth programs, providing access to specialists and primary care physicians via video conferencing and other digital platforms. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville also has a well-developed telehealth program, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. Telehealth is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services.

**Specialty Centers: Tailoring Care to Needs**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized centers is a key differentiator. The UF Health Cancer Center in Gainesville offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville also has a strong cancer program, with advanced treatment options. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville is a major center for cancer treatment, providing access to cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials.

For cardiac care, both UF Health Heart & Vascular Hospital and Baptist Health's heart institute are leading providers. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville also has a highly regarded cardiology program.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is a crucial component of overall health. CMS star ratings include patient experience scores, reflecting patient satisfaction with factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment. Reviewing patient feedback and online reviews can offer insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the factors discussed, here's a summary of the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 32174:

* **Putnam Community Medical Center (PCMC):** 2-star CMS rating. Offers local access but faces challenges in quality metrics.
* **UF Health Shands Hospital (Gainesville):** 5-star CMS rating. Excellent quality, comprehensive services, and specialized centers. A top choice for complex needs.
* **Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville:** 4-star CMS rating. Strong performance, large network, and a wide range of services.
* **Mayo Clinic Jacksonville:** Highly regarded for specialized care and expertise. Not rated by CMS but known for excellence.

**Recommendations for Residents**

For routine medical needs, PCMC may be sufficient. However, for more complex conditions or specialized care, traveling to Gainesville (UF Health) or Jacksonville (Baptist or Mayo Clinic) is often advisable. Consider the specific needs, including the availability of specialized centers and the patient's individual preferences. Telehealth options can bridge the distance and improve access to care. Always check ER wait times before seeking emergency care.

**Disclaimer:** This "Overall Health Score" review is based on publicly available data and information. Hospital ratings and services can change. Always consult with your physician and conduct your own research to make informed healthcare decisions.