41847, Redfox, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 41847, Redfox, Kentucky is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hazard, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41847)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. For residents of Hazard, Kentucky (ZIP code 41847), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the rural nature of the region, the options are limited, but a comprehensive understanding is essential for informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape of Care: Primary Options**

The primary hospital serving Hazard and the surrounding area is **Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center (ARH)**. This facility, a member of the Appalachian Regional Healthcare system, is the cornerstone of local medical care. Its performance, however, needs careful examination.

**Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center: A Closer Look**

Hazard ARH, while a vital community resource, does not currently have a publicly available CMS star rating. This lack of a rating makes a direct comparison with other hospitals using that metric impossible. However, the absence of a rating does not necessarily equate to poor quality; it simply means the hospital hasn't been evaluated under the CMS system.

ER wait times at Hazard ARH are a critical factor. Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate, and it's important to check current wait times directly with the hospital or through online resources like the ER Wait Time app, which often aggregates data from multiple sources. Longer wait times can be indicative of higher patient volume or resource constraints.

Hazard ARH offers a range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, cardiology, and obstetrics. The availability of specialized services is a key consideration for residents. While the hospital provides essential care, the depth of specialty services might be limited compared to larger urban hospitals.

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Hazard ARH's telehealth capabilities should be assessed. Does the hospital offer virtual consultations with specialists? Are there telehealth options for follow-up appointments? The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from specialists. Information on current telehealth options can often be found on the hospital website.

**Other Considerations: Access and Alternatives**

Residents of 41847 may also consider hospitals outside of Hazard, depending on their needs and the availability of transportation. The nearest major hospitals outside the immediate area are located in Lexington, Kentucky, approximately a 2-3 hour drive.

**University of Kentucky HealthCare (Lexington): A Flagship Option**

The University of Kentucky HealthCare system, including the **UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital**, is a major regional referral center. The UK Chandler Hospital boasts a **4-star CMS rating**. This rating reflects a generally good performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

The UK Chandler Hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including advanced cardiology, oncology, neurology, and transplant services. For patients requiring specialized care, this hospital is a strong option.

ER wait times at UK Chandler Hospital can vary. As a large, high-volume facility, wait times may be longer than at smaller hospitals. Checking current wait times online or by phone is advisable.

UK HealthCare has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring services. This is a significant advantage for patients in rural areas who may need to access specialized care without traveling long distances.

**Saint Joseph Hospital (Lexington): Another Lexington Option**

Another hospital in Lexington is **Saint Joseph Hospital**. This hospital has a **3-star CMS rating**. While not as high as the UK Chandler Hospital, a 3-star rating indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

Saint Joseph Hospital provides a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, general surgery, and various specialty clinics. It may be a good option for certain types of care, especially if it offers shorter wait times than the UK Chandler Hospital.

ER wait times at Saint Joseph Hospital should be checked prior to visiting.

Saint Joseph Hospital also offers telehealth services, though the scope of these services may vary. Information on telehealth options can be found on the hospital's website.

**Comparing the Options: A Summary**

The choice of hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. For routine care and emergencies, Hazard ARH is the primary local option. However, residents should be aware of the potential limitations in specialty services and monitor ER wait times.

For specialized care, the University of Kentucky HealthCare system in Lexington, with its 4-star CMS rating, is a strong choice. The UK Chandler Hospital's comprehensive services and robust telehealth program are significant advantages. However, the distance and potentially longer ER wait times should be considered.

Saint Joseph Hospital in Lexington, with its 3-star CMS rating, offers another option, potentially with shorter wait times for certain services.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

The availability of telehealth services is a critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility in rural areas. Both UK HealthCare and Saint Joseph Hospital offer telehealth options, providing a valuable link to specialists and reducing the need for travel. Hazard ARH's telehealth capabilities should be investigated to determine the extent of virtual care options available locally.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Metric**

ER wait times are a key indicator of access to care. It is essential to check current wait times at each hospital before seeking emergency treatment. Online resources and hospital websites often provide this information. Longer wait times can indicate higher patient volume, resource constraints, or both.

**Specialty Centers: Matching Needs to Resources**

The availability of specialty centers is a crucial factor in determining the best hospital for a particular condition. UK HealthCare in Lexington, with its comprehensive range of specialty services, is often the best option for complex medical needs. Hazard ARH offers essential services, but the depth of specialty care may be limited.

**Overall Health Score: Considerations and Caveats**

An "Overall Health Score" is a complex assessment. This review provides information on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. The absence of a CMS rating for Hazard ARH does not necessarily indicate poor quality, but it makes direct comparisons difficult.

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 41847 is weighted by the following:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher star rating indicates better overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are generally preferable.
* **Specialty Offerings:** The availability of specialized services is crucial for specific needs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Robust telehealth programs enhance access to care, especially in rural areas.
* **Accessibility:** Distance and transportation options should be considered.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and emergencies:** Hazard ARH is the primary local option. Monitor ER wait times.
* **For specialized care:** The University of Kentucky HealthCare system (UK Chandler Hospital) in Lexington is recommended.
* **For another Lexington option:** Saint Joseph Hospital is a consideration.
* **All patients:** Inquire about telehealth options at each hospital to improve access to care.
* **All patients:** Always check current ER wait times before visiting an emergency room.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Hospital ratings and wait times can change, so it is essential to verify the most current information.