32359, Steinhatchee, Florida Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 32359, Steinhatchee, Florida is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 32359

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to ZIP code 32359, offering a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability. This is not a ranking, but rather a comprehensive look at the strengths and weaknesses of each facility.

**Understanding the Landscape: ZIP Code 32359**

ZIP code 32359 encompasses the city of Monticello, Florida, and surrounding areas. This is a primarily rural area, and access to quality healthcare is a crucial consideration for residents. Proximity to larger cities like Tallahassee significantly impacts healthcare options.

**Capital Regional Medical Center (Tallahassee, FL)**

Capital Regional Medical Center (CRMC), located in Tallahassee, is a significant healthcare provider for residents near 32359. CRMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest rating, it indicates a facility that meets basic standards and is continuously working to improve.

CRMC's Emergency Department (ED) is a critical access point. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it is crucial to consider average wait times when assessing emergency care. Data suggests average wait times at CRMC's ED can vary, so checking current wait times through their website or a third-party app is recommended before visiting.

CRMC boasts several specialty centers. It has a dedicated cardiac care unit, offering services like angioplasty and cardiac catheterization. The hospital also features a comprehensive stroke center, equipped to provide rapid diagnosis and treatment for stroke patients. Furthermore, CRMC has a women's health center providing services in obstetrics and gynecology.

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially for rural populations. CRMC offers telehealth consultations, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely for certain appointments and follow-up care. This can be particularly beneficial for residents of 32359, who may face transportation challenges. The availability and scope of telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (Tallahassee, FL)**

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH), also located in Tallahassee, is another major healthcare provider serving the 32359 area. TMH is a flagship hospital in the region and holds a 4-star rating from CMS. This higher rating suggests better performance across a broader range of quality metrics compared to CRMC.

TMH's Emergency Department is a high-volume facility. Like CRMC, real-time wait times are dynamic. Checking the hospital's website or a reliable third-party source for the most up-to-date information is essential.

TMH is known for its extensive specialty centers. It houses a renowned cancer center, offering advanced treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The hospital also has a dedicated heart and vascular center, providing a full spectrum of cardiac care. Additionally, TMH has a comprehensive neuroscience center, specializing in neurological conditions. TMH is also a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle severe injuries.

Telehealth is a significant component of TMH's services. The hospital offers a wide range of telehealth options, including virtual visits with specialists, remote monitoring, and behavioral health services. This commitment to telehealth makes TMH a valuable resource for residents of 32359.

**Jefferson Hospital (Monticello, FL)**

Jefferson Hospital, located in Monticello, is the closest hospital to the 32359 ZIP code. This proximity makes it a vital resource for the local community. Jefferson Hospital is a critical access hospital, which means it receives special funding to support rural healthcare. The hospital's CMS star rating and other performance metrics should be checked on the CMS website.

Jefferson Hospital's Emergency Department provides immediate care for local residents. Due to its smaller size compared to the Tallahassee hospitals, wait times may be shorter, but this can fluctuate.

Jefferson Hospital offers a range of services, including general medical care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital may not have the same breadth of specialty centers as the larger hospitals in Tallahassee, but it provides essential care for the local population.

Telehealth services are available at Jefferson Hospital. Confirm the specific telehealth options offered by the hospital, as they may be focused on primary care or specific specialties.

**Other Considerations**

**Specialty Care Access:** Residents of 32359 may need to travel to Tallahassee or beyond for specialized care. Evaluating the availability of specialists in areas like cardiology, oncology, and neurology is crucial.

**Physician Availability:** The number of physicians in a given area impacts access to care. Researching the availability of primary care physicians and specialists accepting new patients is recommended.

**Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that a hospital accepts your insurance plan is essential. This can significantly impact out-of-pocket costs.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Reading online reviews and gathering feedback from other patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience at each hospital.

**Emergency Preparedness:** Consider each hospital's emergency preparedness capabilities, particularly in a hurricane-prone area like Florida.

**Comparing the Options**

Capital Regional Medical Center offers a range of services and is a key provider for the region. Its 3-star CMS rating indicates that it meets core quality standards. The hospital's specialty centers and telehealth offerings provide additional value. However, the ER wait times should be checked before visiting.

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, with its 4-star CMS rating, is a strong contender. Its comprehensive specialty centers, Level II Trauma Center, and robust telehealth program make it a desirable option. However, travel time from 32359 should be considered.

Jefferson Hospital is the closest option, offering immediate access to care. Its critical access hospital status underscores its importance to the community. However, it may have a more limited range of specialty services compared to the Tallahassee hospitals.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital involves a careful assessment of individual needs and priorities. Residents of 32359 have multiple options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Capital Regional Medical Center, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Jefferson Hospital all play a vital role in providing healthcare services to the area. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Checking real-time ER wait times, reviewing CMS ratings, and confirming the availability of specialists and telehealth services are essential steps in the decision-making process. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for that assessment, empowering residents to navigate the healthcare landscape with greater confidence.