42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 42140 (Glasgow, Kentucky)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving residents near ZIP code 42140 (Glasgow, Kentucky), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. This analysis considers factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, offering a snapshot of the healthcare ecosystem in the area.

**The Primary Contender: T.J. Samson Community Hospital**

T.J. Samson Community Hospital, located directly in Glasgow, is the primary healthcare provider for the 42140 area. This hospital is a crucial component of the Barren County community's health infrastructure. It's a critical access hospital, a designation that reflects its importance in providing care to a rural population.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators:**

T.J. Samson Community Hospital holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a three-star rating is considered average, it's essential to delve deeper into the specific metrics to understand the hospital's strengths and areas for potential improvement.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's responsiveness. While publicly available data can fluctuate, it's essential to consider that T.J. Samson Community Hospital is the primary ER provider in the immediate area. Average wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, particularly during peak hours.

**Specialized Services:**

T.J. Samson offers a range of specialized services. These include cardiology, with a focus on heart health, and a dedicated cancer center. The hospital also provides surgical services, including general surgery and orthopedic procedures. The availability of these specialized services within the community reduces the need for residents to travel long distances for care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. T.J. Samson Community Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings. Telehealth services can provide convenient access to specialists and follow-up care, reducing the burden of travel. The specific scope of telehealth services, including the specialties available, is an important consideration for patients.

**Beyond Glasgow: Regional Healthcare Options**

While T.J. Samson is the primary provider, residents of the 42140 ZIP code may also seek care at hospitals in nearby cities. These options can offer specialized services or provide alternatives for specific needs.

**Bowling Green: A Hub for Advanced Care**

Bowling Green, approximately 45 minutes from Glasgow, is a major healthcare hub. Two hospitals in Bowling Green are particularly relevant:

**Med Center Health: A Regional Powerhouse**

Med Center Health, including The Medical Center, is a major regional provider. This hospital system has a more extensive range of services than T.J. Samson. The Medical Center in Bowling Green holds a four-star CMS rating, indicating a higher overall quality score than T.J. Samson.

**Emergency Room Performance at The Medical Center:**

The Medical Center in Bowling Green typically has a higher patient volume than T.J. Samson. Therefore, ER wait times may be longer. Patients should check current wait times online or by phone before arriving.

**Specialized Services at The Medical Center:**

The Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, a comprehensive stroke center, and a Level II trauma center. The hospital has a robust cancer center and offers a wide array of surgical specialties. For patients requiring specialized care, The Medical Center is a strong option.

**Telehealth at The Medical Center:**

Med Center Health has invested heavily in telehealth. The hospital offers a broad spectrum of telehealth services, including virtual appointments with specialists and remote monitoring programs. This makes it easier for patients to access care without travelling.

**Greenview Hospital: Another Bowling Green Option**

Greenview Hospital, also in Bowling Green, is another option for residents near 42140. It is part of the HCA Healthcare system.

**CMS Rating and Quality at Greenview:**

Greenview Hospital generally has a strong reputation for quality care. The hospital's CMS star rating and other quality metrics should be reviewed to assess its performance.

**Emergency Room Performance at Greenview:**

Greenview's ER wait times can vary. Checking current wait times online or by phone is recommended.

**Specialized Services at Greenview:**

Greenview offers a range of services, including women's health, orthopedics, and surgical care. The hospital's specific offerings should be assessed based on individual needs.

**Telehealth at Greenview:**

Greenview Hospital offers telehealth services, providing virtual access to care. The scope of these services should be considered.

**Other Considerations: Access and Affordability**

Beyond quality ratings and services, access and affordability are critical.

**Insurance Coverage:**

The acceptance of different insurance plans varies between hospitals. Patients should verify that their insurance is accepted by their chosen provider.

**Cost of Care:**

Healthcare costs can vary significantly. Patients should inquire about the cost of services and explore financial assistance options if needed.

**Patient Experience:**

Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website offer patient feedback.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

For residents near ZIP code 42140, T.J. Samson Community Hospital is the primary healthcare provider. It offers essential services and is a critical resource for the community. However, for specialized care or in cases of emergency, the hospitals in Bowling Green, such as The Medical Center and Greenview Hospital, offer additional options with a broader range of services and higher CMS star ratings.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and general medical needs:** T.J. Samson Community Hospital is a convenient and accessible option.
* **For specialized care, complex medical conditions, or a broader range of services:** Consider The Medical Center in Bowling Green.
* **For specific needs or preferences:** Greenview Hospital in Bowling Green can be a good alternative.
* **Before seeking care:** Check ER wait times, verify insurance coverage, and inquire about costs.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for convenient access to care.
* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health needs.

This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare options near 42140. It is recommended to conduct further research and consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, so it's always best to stay informed about the latest developments and changes in services.