39061, Delta City, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39061, Delta City, Mississippi is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Navigating Healthcare in the Heart of Mississippi: A Health Score Review for Hospitals Near 39061

The search for quality healthcare is a constant, and for residents near the zip code 39061 (primarily encompassing the town of Lexington, Mississippi, and surrounding areas), understanding the local hospital landscape is crucial. This review delves into the available options, providing a fact-rich assessment of their strengths, weaknesses, and overall health scores, drawing on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable sources. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a focused examination of the most relevant facilities for residents of this region.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Regional Focus**

The healthcare options directly within the 39061 zip code are limited. Residents typically rely on hospitals located in nearby towns and cities, making accessibility and travel time significant factors in healthcare decisions. The emphasis, therefore, shifts to hospitals in the broader region, particularly those in Jackson, Mississippi, and surrounding areas, which offer a wider array of services and specialties.

**University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC): A Regional Powerhouse**

Located in Jackson, approximately an hour's drive from Lexington, the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) stands as a flagship institution for the state. UMMC is a Level I trauma center and the state's only academic medical center, making it a critical resource for complex medical needs. While the drive time is a consideration for residents of 39061, the breadth of services offered makes it a primary destination for many.

UMMC's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall performance. As of the latest available data, UMMC's star rating fluctuates, reflecting the complexities of a large academic medical center. It's essential to check the most recent CMS data directly for the current rating, as these ratings are subject to change. The hospital's size and scope naturally mean longer wait times, particularly in the emergency room. The ER wait times are variable, and patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. UMMC's website and the CMS Hospital Compare website provide up-to-date information on ER wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions.

UMMC boasts a wide range of specialty centers, including the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children, a comprehensive pediatric facility. Other notable centers include the Cancer Institute, the Heart and Vascular Institute, and specialized centers for neurological disorders, transplant services, and more. Telehealth services are increasingly integrated into UMMC's offerings, providing remote access to specialists and follow-up care, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas like Lexington. UMMC's telehealth statistics demonstrate a growing commitment to virtual care, allowing patients to connect with providers from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for lengthy travel.

**St. Dominic Hospital: A Community-Focused Alternative**

Also located in Jackson, St. Dominic Hospital offers another option for residents of 39061. St. Dominic is a large, faith-based hospital known for its community focus and comprehensive services. Its CMS star rating is a valuable metric for assessing its overall quality, and it's important to consult the most recent CMS data for the most accurate assessment. St. Dominic typically has shorter ER wait times compared to UMMC, making it an attractive option for urgent care needs. The hospital's website provides real-time ER wait time updates.

St. Dominic offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, women's health, and a robust cancer center. The hospital has invested in advanced technology and offers a variety of minimally invasive procedures. Telehealth services are available, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care. The hospital's telehealth statistics show a growing emphasis on virtual consultations and remote monitoring, enhancing patient convenience and access.

**Baptist Medical Center: A System-Wide Approach**

Baptist Medical Center, also in Jackson, is part of the Baptist Health Systems of Mississippi, a larger network of hospitals and clinics. The Baptist system offers a wide range of services and is known for its integrated approach to healthcare. The CMS star rating for Baptist Medical Center is an important factor to consider when evaluating its quality, and the most recent data should be consulted. ER wait times at Baptist Medical Center are variable, and it's advisable to check the hospital's website or other resources for real-time updates.

Baptist Medical Center provides a broad spectrum of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital has a strong focus on women's health and offers a comprehensive range of services for women of all ages. The Baptist system has expanded its telehealth capabilities, providing access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring. The telehealth statistics for the Baptist system demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to care and improving patient outcomes.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Urgent Care**

While the major hospitals in Jackson are the primary destinations for specialized care, residents of 39061 may also consider smaller facilities and urgent care clinics in the surrounding areas. These options can be useful for less complex medical needs and for providing immediate care. However, it's essential to recognize their limitations and understand that they may not have the same level of resources or specialized expertise as the larger hospitals.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration for residents of 39061. The time spent waiting in the ER can significantly impact patient outcomes, particularly in urgent situations. Both UMMC, St. Dominic, and Baptist Medical Center provide real-time or near real-time updates on ER wait times on their websites and through other channels. Checking these updates before heading to the ER can help patients make informed decisions and potentially choose the facility with the shortest wait time.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for residents of rural areas like Lexington. Telehealth allows patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care remotely, reducing the need for long travel times. UMMC, St. Dominic, and Baptist Medical Center all offer telehealth services, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other forms of virtual care. The availability and scope of telehealth services are constantly evolving, so it's important to check with each hospital for the most up-to-date information.

**Overall Health Score Assessment (Near 39061):**

Based on the available data, the "overall health score" for residents near 39061 is complex. While the area lacks a major hospital directly within the zip code, the proximity to Jackson provides access to several high-quality facilities.

* **UMMC:** Offers a comprehensive range of services and specialized expertise, but with potentially longer ER wait times and the need for travel. Its overall score is high due to its academic status and specialized centers, but the accessibility factor lowers the score slightly.
* **St. Dominic Hospital:** Provides a good balance of services, shorter ER wait times, and a community focus. Its overall score is strong, making it a viable alternative for many residents.
* **Baptist Medical Center:** Offers a wide range of services and an integrated healthcare system. Its overall score is good, and its telehealth capabilities are a significant asset.

**Key Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Plan Ahead:** Understand the services offered by each hospital and choose the facility that best meets your needs.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Utilize online resources to check ER wait times before heading to the emergency room.
* **Explore Telehealth:** Consider telehealth options for routine appointments and follow-up care.
* **Stay Informed:** Regularly check the CMS Hospital Compare website for the latest star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital, particularly in urgent situations.
* **Build a Relationship with a Primary Care Physician:** A primary care physician can help coordinate care and provide referrals to specialists.

The healthcare landscape near 39061 requires careful navigation. By understanding the available options, considering the factors discussed in this review, and staying informed, residents can make informed decisions and access the quality healthcare they need. The ongoing development of telehealth and the commitment of local hospitals to providing accessible care offer a promising outlook for the future of healthcare in this region.