33138, Miami, Florida Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 33138, Miami, Florida is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near 33138 (Miami, FL)

The bustling heart of Miami, ZIP code 33138, is a vibrant tapestry of culture and commerce. But residents also need access to quality healthcare. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the best hospitals in the immediate vicinity, focusing on factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to empower residents with the information necessary to make informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Their Footprints**

The healthcare landscape near 33138 is dominated by several major players, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these institutions is the first step towards navigating the system effectively. Proximity is key in this densely populated area, so this review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.

**University of Miami Hospital (UMH): A Flagship Institution**

The University of Miami Hospital (UMH), located at 1400 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33136, is a prominent presence. UMH is a teaching hospital and a major referral center, offering a wide array of services. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), UMH currently holds a **3-star rating**. This rating reflects performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. While a 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement, UMH’s status as a teaching hospital often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and specialized expertise.

**Emergency Room Dynamics at UMH**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. Data on ER wait times fluctuates, but generally, UMH's ER experiences moderate wait times, often averaging between 30 minutes to an hour. However, this can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the presenting illnesses or injuries. It is advisable to check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospital directly before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers at UMH**

UMH boasts several renowned specialty centers. The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, offering comprehensive cancer care, including advanced therapies and clinical trials. The hospital also has strong programs in cardiology, neurology, and transplant services. For those seeking specialized care, UMH is a significant resource.

**Telehealth at UMH**

UMH has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. This is particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and accessing specialists remotely. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living further away.

**Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH): A Public Healthcare Powerhouse**

Jackson Memorial Hospital (JMH), located at 1611 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL 33136, is another major player in the region. As a public hospital, JMH serves a diverse patient population and provides a broad range of services. JMH also has a **3-star rating** from CMS. Like UMH, the 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement, but it’s essential to consider the complexity of the patient population it serves.

**Emergency Room at JMH**

JMH's ER is one of the busiest in the region. ER wait times can be longer than at other hospitals, often exceeding an hour, especially during peak hours. However, JMH has a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies. The hospital has implemented strategies to improve efficiency, but patients should be prepared for potentially longer wait times.

**Specialty Centers at JMH**

JMH is known for its specialized centers, including the Ryder Trauma Center, one of the busiest trauma centers in the United States. The hospital also has strong programs in burn care, obstetrics, and pediatrics. The Holtz Children's Hospital, part of JMH, provides comprehensive pediatric care.

**Telehealth at JMH**

JMH offers telehealth services, including virtual visits and remote monitoring. These services are particularly valuable for patients with chronic conditions and those needing follow-up care. The hospital continues to expand its telehealth offerings to improve access to care and patient convenience.

**Baptist Hospital of Miami: A Community-Focused Option**

Baptist Hospital of Miami, located at 8900 SW 88th St, Miami, FL 33176, is a large, private hospital that serves a broad population. While not directly within the 33138 ZIP code, it is a reasonable drive for many residents. Baptist Hospital has a **4-star rating** from CMS, indicating a higher level of performance across various quality metrics compared to UMH and JMH.

**Emergency Room at Baptist Hospital**

Baptist Hospital's ER generally experiences shorter wait times than UMH and JMH, often averaging under an hour. However, this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Checking online or calling the hospital for current wait times is recommended.

**Specialty Centers at Baptist Hospital**

Baptist Hospital has several specialty centers, including a comprehensive cardiac center, a cancer center, and a neuroscience center. The hospital also offers a wide range of surgical services and has a strong reputation for patient satisfaction.

**Telehealth at Baptist Hospital**

Baptist Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes and can improve convenience and access to specialists.

**Other Hospitals to Consider**

While UMH, JMH, and Baptist Hospital are the major players, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer specialized services. These include:

* **Mount Sinai Medical Center (Miami Beach):** Located at 4300 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33140, this hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiac care and cancer treatment.
* **Kendall Regional Medical Center:** Located at 11750 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33165, this hospital offers a range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center.

**Factors Beyond the Ratings: Patient Experience and Personal Needs**

CMS star ratings are a valuable starting point, but they don't tell the whole story. Patient experience, personal preferences, and specific healthcare needs are also crucial considerations. Consider the following:

* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews from other patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you have a specific medical condition, research hospitals with specialized centers that cater to your needs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan to avoid unexpected costs.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital, parking availability, and visiting hours.
* **Communication and Language:** If you prefer to communicate in a language other than English, check the hospital's language services.

**Telehealth: A Growing Component of Healthcare**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. It allows patients to access care remotely, improving convenience and access, especially for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth offerings and how they align with your needs.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available data, the hospitals near 33138 present a mixed bag of options.

* **Baptist Hospital (4-star CMS rating)** generally scores highest on overall quality metrics, but is a slightly longer drive.
* **UMH and JMH (3-star CMS rating)** offer comprehensive services and specialized centers, but have longer ER wait times.
* **Other hospitals** provide additional options, particularly for specialized care.

**Recommendations**

Residents of 33138 should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when choosing a hospital. Researching patient reviews, checking ER wait times, and exploring telehealth options are essential steps in making an informed decision. While CMS star ratings provide a useful benchmark, they should be considered in conjunction with other factors. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed and proactively managing your healthcare is key.