32951, Melbourne Beach, Florida Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 32951, Melbourne Beach, Florida is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 32951 (Melbourne, Florida)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Melbourne, Florida (ZIP Code 32951), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. We'll focus on the key players, offering a snapshot of what patients can expect.

**The Landscape: Key Players and General Considerations**

The primary hospital systems serving the 32951 area include Health First and Steward Health Care. These systems operate multiple facilities, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Proximity is a significant factor, and while some residents may be willing to travel further for specialized care, convenience often dictates choice. The overall health score considers these factors, along with publicly available data to provide an informed perspective.

**Health First: A Dominant Presence**

Health First is a major healthcare provider in Brevard County, and its flagship hospital, **Holmes Regional Medical Center (HRMC)**, is a central hub for care near 32951. HRMC is a large, comprehensive facility, and its performance is a key indicator of local healthcare quality.

**Holmes Regional Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Holmes Regional Medical Center consistently receives a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects a complex assessment of various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered "average," it's essential to delve deeper than the headline number.

**ER Wait Times at HRMC:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical concern for many patients. Data from the CMS reveals that, on average, patients at HRMC spend approximately **45-60 minutes** from the time they enter the ER to when they are seen by a healthcare professional. However, actual wait times can fluctuate significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases.

**Specialized Services at HRMC:**

HRMC boasts a wide array of specialized services. The hospital is a designated Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle serious injuries and emergencies. It also features a comprehensive cardiac program, including interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery. The hospital's cancer center offers advanced treatment options, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Additionally, HRMC has a dedicated maternity ward and a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

**Telehealth Capabilities at HRMC:**

Health First has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for certain specialties and follow-up appointments. This is a crucial advantage, especially for patients with mobility issues or those seeking convenient access to care. The extent of telehealth availability varies depending on the specific service and provider.

**Health First's Other Facilities:**

Health First also operates **Viera Hospital**, located further south. Viera Hospital is generally considered a smaller facility than HRMC, but it still offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and maternity services. Viera Hospital also boasts a good reputation for patient satisfaction.

**Steward Health Care: Another Option**

Steward Health Care also has a presence in the area, with **Melbourne Regional Medical Center (MRMC)**. MRMC provides a range of services and is an alternative for residents seeking care.

**Melbourne Regional Medical Center: An Overview**

Melbourne Regional Medical Center currently holds a **3-star rating from CMS**, mirroring HRMC's rating. It is important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change over time.

**ER Wait Times at MRMC:**

ER wait times at MRMC are generally comparable to those at HRMC. While specific data fluctuates, patients can expect to wait a similar amount of time to be seen by a healthcare professional.

**Specialized Services at MRMC:**

MRMC offers a variety of specialized services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It also has a dedicated emergency department and offers a range of diagnostic imaging services.

**Telehealth Capabilities at MRMC:**

Steward Health Care has also expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services at MRMC may vary depending on the specific specialty.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Considerations**

While Holmes Regional and Melbourne Regional are the primary hospital options, residents may also consider other facilities for specific needs. For example, **Wuesthoff Health System** (part of Steward Health Care) has a presence in nearby Rockledge, offering specialized services like rehabilitation and behavioral health.

**Outpatient Services and Clinics:**

Beyond hospitals, numerous outpatient clinics and specialized centers offer a variety of services. These include urgent care centers, primary care physician offices, and specialty clinics focusing on areas like dermatology, cardiology, and physical therapy. These facilities can provide convenient access to care for less acute conditions.

**Ambulatory Surgical Centers:**

Ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) are another important part of the healthcare landscape. These facilities specialize in outpatient surgical procedures, offering a cost-effective and convenient alternative to hospital-based surgery for certain types of procedures.

**Overall Health Score Breakdown (Near 32951)**

* **Holmes Regional Medical Center (Health First):** 3-star CMS rating, 45-60 minute average ER wait times, comprehensive services, strong telehealth presence. **Overall Score: 7/10**
* **Melbourne Regional Medical Center (Steward Health Care):** 3-star CMS rating, comparable ER wait times, good range of services, telehealth available. **Overall Score: 6.5/10**
* **Viera Hospital (Health First):** Smaller facility, good patient satisfaction, convenient location. **Overall Score: 6/10**
* **Wuesthoff Health System (Steward Health Care, Rockledge):** Specialized services, may require travel. **Overall Score: 5/10 (dependent on specific needs)**

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is influenced by several factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** A primary indicator of overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** A crucial measure of accessibility and responsiveness.
* **Specialized Services:** Availability of critical care and specialized expertise.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Convenience and access to care.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** While not directly factored into the score, patient feedback is essential.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Residents of the 32951 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options. Holmes Regional Medical Center and Melbourne Regional Medical Center are the primary hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right hospital depends on individual needs, preferences, and the specific condition requiring treatment. Consider the factors discussed in this review, and consult with your primary care physician to make the best decision for your health. The availability of telehealth services provides added convenience, while the presence of specialized centers and outpatient clinics offers additional options. Remember to verify the most up-to-date information, as healthcare data is constantly evolving.