39354, Preston, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39354, Preston, Mississippi is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Meridian, Mississippi (39354)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of Meridian, Mississippi, and the surrounding area encompassed by the 39354 ZIP code, understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.

**Methodology:** This review assesses the hospitals closest to the 39354 ZIP code, focusing on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable healthcare reporting organizations. The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment, considering factors weighted to reflect their importance in overall patient experience and outcomes.

**The Landscape: Key Players in Meridian**

The healthcare landscape near Meridian is dominated by two major players: Anderson Regional Medical Center (ARMC) and Rush Health Systems. Both offer a range of services, but their strengths and weaknesses vary.

**Anderson Regional Medical Center (ARMC): A Closer Look**

Anderson Regional Medical Center, with its two campuses, is a significant healthcare provider in the region. ARMC offers a comprehensive suite of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized treatments.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Indicators:** CMS star ratings provide a snapshot of hospital quality, based on factors like patient experience, readmission rates, and mortality rates. As of the latest available data, Anderson Regional Medical Center – South Campus, the main campus, holds a CMS star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance relative to national benchmarks. It is important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. Publicly available data on ER wait times can vary. Generally, ARMC strives to keep wait times as short as possible. However, specific wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. It's always advisable to contact the hospital directly or check their website for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** ARMC boasts a range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health services. The hospital has invested in advanced medical technologies and offers specialized care for various conditions. The availability of these specialized services is a significant advantage for residents of the Meridian area, reducing the need to travel to larger cities for complex treatments.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. ARMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with remote access to healthcare professionals for consultations, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management. The availability of telehealth services improves access to care, particularly for patients who have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Rush Health Systems: An Overview**

Rush Health Systems is another major player in the Meridian healthcare market. Rush operates a network of hospitals and clinics, providing a wide range of medical services to the community.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Indicators:** Rush Hospital, the main hospital within the Rush Health Systems network, also participates in the CMS star rating program. Their rating is an indicator of their performance relative to national averages.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Rush Hospital's emergency room performance is another key factor for patients. Publicly available data on ER wait times is available. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Rush Hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and behavioral health. The hospital has invested in advanced medical technologies and provides specialized care for various conditions. The availability of these specialized services is a significant advantage for residents of the Meridian area.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Rush Health Systems has also embraced telehealth, offering remote access to healthcare professionals. This includes virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring for chronic conditions. Telehealth improves access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.

**Comparing the Two: A Comparative Analysis**

Comparing ARMC and Rush Hospital requires a nuanced approach. Both hospitals offer a wide range of services and are committed to providing quality care. The CMS star ratings provide a valuable benchmark for overall quality. The availability of specialized services and telehealth capabilities are also important factors. The best choice for a patient will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Considerations**

While ARMC and Rush Hospital are the primary healthcare providers in the area, it is important to consider other factors.

**Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care Centers:** Numerous outpatient clinics and urgent care centers are located near the 39354 ZIP code. These facilities provide convenient access to primary care, minor illness treatment, and other services.

**Specialized Care Facilities:** The Meridian area also has specialized care facilities, such as rehabilitation centers and dialysis clinics. These facilities provide specialized care for patients with specific medical needs.

**Accessibility and Convenience:** The location of hospitals and clinics is a critical factor for patients. The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas and ease of access are important considerations.

**Financial Considerations:** The cost of healthcare is a significant concern for many patients. The availability of insurance coverage, payment options, and financial assistance programs should be considered.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near the 39354 ZIP code is generally positive. Both Anderson Regional Medical Center and Rush Hospital offer a comprehensive range of services and are committed to providing quality care. The CMS star ratings provide a valuable benchmark for overall quality. The availability of specialized services and telehealth capabilities are also important factors.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Specific Needs:** Patients should research the specific needs of their individual needs.
* **Check CMS Ratings:** Review the most current CMS star ratings.
* **Inquire about ER Wait Times:** Contact the hospitals directly or check their websites for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Inquire about telehealth options.
* **Consider Accessibility:** Consider the location of hospitals and clinics.
* **Inquire about Financial Assistance:** Inquire about insurance coverage, payment options, and financial assistance programs.

**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. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Hospital performance and ratings can change. Always verify information with the hospitals directly.