42256, Lewisburg, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 42256, Lewisburg, Kentucky is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 42256 (Hopkinsville, KY)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Hopkinsville, Kentucky (ZIP code 42256), considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture for residents seeking the best possible healthcare options.

**Focus on Primary Providers:**

The primary hospital serving the Hopkinsville area is **Jennie Stuart Medical Center (JSMC)**. Located directly within the city, it serves as the primary access point for acute care and a wide range of medical services. Understanding JSMC’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial for residents. This review will also consider the proximity and capabilities of hospitals in neighboring areas, particularly in Clarksville, Tennessee, as they provide alternative options and can influence the overall healthcare landscape.

**Jennie Stuart Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Jennie Stuart Medical Center is a 274-bed facility and a vital component of the Christian County community. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including a Level III Trauma Center, a certified Primary Stroke Center, and a robust cardiovascular program. JSMC is also a member of Baptist Health, a larger healthcare system, which can offer advantages in terms of resources and access to specialized expertise.

**CMS Star Rating:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance across various quality measures. These ratings offer a simplified way for patients to compare hospitals. As of the latest available data, Jennie Stuart Medical Center currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. While not the highest possible rating, it still signifies a commitment to quality and patient safety.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. JSMC's ER generally sees a moderate volume of patients. While specific wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to maintain efficient patient flow. It is recommended that patients contact the hospital directly or consult online resources for the most up-to-date wait time information before arriving at the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** JSMC boasts several specialty centers, including a dedicated cancer center, a women's health center, and a comprehensive surgical program. The cancer center provides advanced treatments, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The women's health center offers a range of services, from obstetrics and gynecology to mammography and other screenings. The surgical program covers a broad spectrum of procedures, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and minimally invasive techniques.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas. JSMC has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. These services can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in the area. The hospital continues to expand its telehealth offerings, reflecting the growing demand for virtual healthcare options.

**Baptist Health System Integration:** Being part of the Baptist Health system provides JSMC with several advantages. It allows for collaboration with other hospitals within the system, enabling access to specialized expertise and resources. This integration can also streamline patient care, facilitating seamless transfers between facilities and access to a broader network of specialists.

**Beyond Hopkinsville: Exploring Regional Options**

While Jennie Stuart Medical Center is the primary hospital, residents may also consider healthcare options in nearby cities, particularly Clarksville, Tennessee.

**Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville:** Located approximately 30 miles south of Hopkinsville, Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville is another option for residents seeking advanced care. This hospital offers a wide array of services, including a comprehensive cardiac program, a stroke center, and a dedicated women's health center.

**CMS Star Rating:** Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville holds a **3-star rating** from CMS, similar to JSMC.

**ER Performance:** ER wait times at Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville can vary. Patients should check real-time wait times online or contact the hospital directly for the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville boasts a strong cardiac program, offering advanced treatments for heart conditions. It also has a dedicated stroke center, providing rapid assessment and treatment for stroke patients. The women's health center provides a full range of services, including obstetrics, gynecology, and breast health services.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville also offers telehealth services, allowing patients to access virtual consultations and remote monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to appointments.

**Other Considerations:**

**Access to Specialists:** The availability of specialists is a crucial factor in healthcare quality. Both JSMC and Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville have access to a range of specialists, but the specific availability may vary. Patients may need to travel to larger cities like Nashville, Tennessee, or Louisville, Kentucky, for certain specialized services.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction is a critical indicator of healthcare quality. Both hospitals regularly survey patients to assess their experiences. Patients can find this information through online resources, such as the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey results.

**Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs are a significant concern for patients. The cost of care can vary depending on the services provided, the patient's insurance coverage, and the hospital's billing practices. Patients should discuss costs with their providers and insurance companies to understand their financial responsibilities.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

**Jennie Stuart Medical Center:** JSMC serves as a vital healthcare hub for the Hopkinsville community. Its strengths lie in its comprehensive services, including a Level III Trauma Center, a Primary Stroke Center, and a growing telehealth program. The 3-star CMS rating indicates average performance. While wait times fluctuate, the hospital is committed to efficient patient flow.

**Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville:** Located in Clarksville, Tennessee, this hospital offers an alternative for residents seeking advanced care. It has a similar CMS rating to JSMC. It boasts a robust cardiac program and a dedicated stroke center.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Acute Care and General Services:** Jennie Stuart Medical Center remains the primary choice for residents of Hopkinsville and the surrounding areas.
* **For Specialized Care:** Patients seeking specialized care, particularly in cardiology or stroke, may consider Tennova Healthcare - Clarksville.
* **For Comprehensive Cancer Care:** Jennie Stuart Medical Center's cancer center provides advanced treatment options.
* **For Telehealth Options:** Both hospitals offer telehealth services, expanding access to care.

**Final Thoughts:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. Residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when selecting a provider. This review provides a framework for understanding the healthcare options available near ZIP code 42256. It is crucial to conduct further research, consult with healthcare providers, and consider personal circumstances when making healthcare decisions. Continuous updates on hospital performance and services are recommended to stay informed about the evolving healthcare landscape.