42124, Beaumont, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 42124, Beaumont, Kentucky is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 42124

This review analyzes the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 42124, focusing on the quality and accessibility of hospitals. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty center offerings, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment. The goal is to equip residents with information to make informed healthcare decisions.

**The Geographic Scope:**

ZIP code 42124 primarily encompasses the city of Glasgow, Kentucky, and the surrounding Barren County area. This review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering the region's rural nature and the potential for travel for specialized care.

**Flagship Hospital: T.J. Samson Community Hospital**

The dominant healthcare provider in the immediate area is T.J. Samson Community Hospital, located in Glasgow. T.J. Samson is a vital resource for the community, offering a broad range of services. While the hospital's CMS star rating is a crucial indicator of quality, it's important to remember that CMS ratings are based on a limited set of data points. The most recent data available shows T.J. Samson with a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects performance across several categories, including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

**Emergency Department Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for many patients. At T.J. Samson, the average ER wait time is a key indicator of access to care. Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources should be consulted to determine the most up-to-date ER wait times. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient and accessible emergency department. The hospital’s ER is a critical access point for the community, and its performance directly impacts patient outcomes.

**Specialty Centers and Services at T.J. Samson:**

T.J. Samson offers a diverse range of specialty services. Key departments include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. The presence of a robust cardiology program is particularly important, given the prevalence of heart disease in the region. An oncology center provides vital cancer treatment and support services. The orthopedic department addresses musculoskeletal issues, while the women's health services cater to the unique healthcare needs of women. Details on specific procedures, specialist availability, and technology used within each department are essential for a complete evaluation.

**Telehealth Initiatives at T.J. Samson:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. T.J. Samson has expanded its telehealth offerings. The availability of virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services improves access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling. The hospital's telehealth program's scope, the types of services offered, and patient satisfaction data are crucial for assessing its effectiveness.

**Other Hospitals Within Reach:**

While T.J. Samson is the primary hospital, residents may consider other options depending on their needs. The closest larger hospitals are in Bowling Green, Kentucky, approximately an hour's drive away.

**The Medical Center at Bowling Green:**

The Medical Center at Bowling Green, part of the Med Center Health system, is a larger facility with a broader range of specialized services. It is a flagship hospital in the region and often serves as a referral center for more complex cases. The Medical Center at Bowling Green has a 4-star CMS rating. This higher rating suggests a stronger performance across the CMS metrics compared to T.J. Samson.

**The Medical Center's ER:**

The Medical Center at Bowling Green typically has higher patient volumes than T.J. Samson. This can impact ER wait times. The ER is a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies.

**Specialty Centers at The Medical Center:**

The Medical Center at Bowling Green offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a comprehensive cancer center. The hospital's specialized centers often provide access to cutting-edge treatments and technologies not available at smaller facilities. The hospital also has a dedicated women's hospital.

**Telehealth at The Medical Center:**

The Medical Center at Bowling Green has also invested in telehealth. The hospital offers a variety of virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. The hospital’s telehealth initiatives are designed to expand access to specialists and provide convenient care options.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility is a significant factor in rural healthcare. Residents of 42124 may face transportation challenges to access hospitals. The availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and patient transportation programs can impact access to care. The distance to hospitals and the condition of local roads are also important considerations.

**Community Health and Preventative Care:**

Beyond hospital services, community health initiatives and preventative care programs play a vital role in overall health. The availability of primary care physicians, public health services, and wellness programs can significantly impact the health outcomes of the community. The presence of community health centers and their focus on preventative care are essential for maintaining a healthy population.

**Data Sources and Verification:**

This review relies on data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available health data. It's important to verify the accuracy of this information. Patients should consult with their physicians and conduct their own research to make informed healthcare decisions.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for the area around ZIP code 42124 is influenced by the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. T.J. Samson Community Hospital provides essential services and is a cornerstone of the community's healthcare. The Medical Center at Bowling Green offers a wider range of specialized care and has a higher CMS rating. ER wait times, specialty center offerings, and telehealth availability are critical factors. The community's health is also influenced by access to primary care, preventative services, and transportation options.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of 42124 have access to a range of healthcare options. T.J. Samson Community Hospital provides essential local care, while The Medical Center at Bowling Green offers more specialized services. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when choosing a healthcare provider. Staying informed about hospital performance metrics, ER wait times, and telehealth options is crucial for making the best healthcare decisions. The "Overall Health Score" for the area is good, with opportunities for improvement in areas like telehealth expansion and access to specialized care. The continued development of healthcare infrastructure and community health initiatives will further improve the health and well-being of the residents of 42124.