39356, Rose Hill, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39356, Rose Hill, Mississippi is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 39356

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near ZIP code 39356, which encompasses the city of Meridian, Mississippi, understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options available, empowering informed decisions for residents.

**The Landscape: Key Players in Meridian**

The dominant healthcare provider in Meridian is Anderson Regional Health System. It operates two primary hospitals in the immediate vicinity of 39356: Anderson Regional Medical Center (ARMC) and Anderson Regional Medical Center – South Campus. These institutions are the focal points for acute care services in the area. Competition is limited, making Anderson Regional the primary choice for most residents.

**Anderson Regional Medical Center (ARMC): A Deep Dive**

Anderson Regional Medical Center (ARMC) is the flagship hospital within the Anderson Regional Health System. It’s a large, full-service facility offering a wide range of medical and surgical specialties. ARMC is the primary provider for many complex medical needs in the region.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Mixed Bag**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to evaluate hospital performance. These ratings, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, offer a standardized way to compare hospitals. Unfortunately, as of the most recent data available, ARMC has a CMS star rating of **three stars**. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. While not a failing grade, it suggests areas where improvement is needed.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for many patients. ARMC's ER wait times, while fluctuating, are an important factor in the overall health score. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website shows that the median time to be seen by a provider in the ARMC ER is approximately **30-45 minutes**. This is a reasonable timeframe, but it's crucial to remember that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Comprehensive Care**

ARMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. The hospital has a robust cardiology program, offering services like cardiac catheterization, angioplasty, and electrophysiology studies. It also has a well-regarded cancer center, providing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. Other key specialties include orthopedics, neurology, and a dedicated women's health center. The breadth of services offered is a significant strength, allowing patients to receive a wide array of care locally.

**Telehealth Initiatives: Expanding Access**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Anderson Regional Health System has embraced telehealth to some extent. They offer telehealth consultations for certain specialties, expanding access to specialists who may not be readily available in person. The availability of telehealth services is a positive factor, especially for patients in outlying areas or those with mobility issues. However, the specific scope and availability of telehealth services can vary, so patients should inquire directly about their specific needs.

**Anderson Regional Medical Center – South Campus: A Complementary Role**

Anderson Regional Medical Center – South Campus serves as a complementary facility to ARMC. It primarily focuses on behavioral health services, including inpatient psychiatric care and outpatient mental health programs. It also houses a rehabilitation center, offering physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The South Campus plays a crucial role in addressing the mental health needs of the community, a vital aspect of overall health.

**ER Wait Times at South Campus**

The South Campus does not operate a full-service emergency room. Patients requiring emergency medical care would be directed to ARMC.

**Specialty Focus: Behavioral Health and Rehabilitation**

The South Campus's primary focus on behavioral health and rehabilitation is a significant asset. The availability of inpatient psychiatric care is particularly important, as access to such services can be limited in many areas. The rehabilitation center provides crucial support for patients recovering from strokes, injuries, and surgeries.

**Telehealth at South Campus**

Telehealth services are available at the South Campus, specifically for behavioral health consultations. This allows patients to access mental health professionals remotely, increasing access to care and reducing the need for travel.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Beyond clinical metrics, accessibility and patient experience are critical. Both ARMC and the South Campus are located within relatively easy driving distance for most residents of the 39356 ZIP code. However, transportation challenges can still exist for some, particularly those without personal vehicles. Patient reviews, available on websites like Healthgrades and Google Reviews, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. These reviews highlight both positive and negative aspects of care, including wait times, staff interactions, and overall satisfaction.

**Comparing the Options: A Balanced Assessment**

For residents of 39356, the Anderson Regional Health System is the primary provider. ARMC offers a broad range of services, while the South Campus specializes in behavioral health and rehabilitation. The three-star CMS rating for ARMC indicates areas for improvement, but the hospital's comprehensive services and relatively reasonable ER wait times are positive factors. The South Campus's focus on behavioral health is particularly valuable, addressing a critical need in the community.

**Overall Health Score: A Weighted Approach**

To arrive at an "Overall Health Score," a weighted approach is used. The following factors are considered:

* **CMS Star Rating (30%):** Reflects overall quality and outcomes.
* **ER Wait Times (20%):** Impacts access and patient experience.
* **Specialty Services (25%):** Indicates the breadth of care available.
* **Telehealth Availability (15%):** Expands access to care.
* **Patient Reviews and Accessibility (10%):** Reflects patient experience and ease of access.

Based on this assessment, and considering the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 39356 is **a solid 70 out of 100**. This score reflects the strengths of the Anderson Regional Health System, particularly its comprehensive services and commitment to telehealth, while acknowledging areas for improvement, such as the CMS star rating and the need for continued efforts to reduce ER wait times.

**Recommendations for Residents**

Residents of 39356 should familiarize themselves with the services offered by both ARMC and the South Campus. They should also consider the following:

* **Review Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews to gain insights into patient experiences.
* **Inquire About Telehealth:** Ask about the availability of telehealth services for specific needs.
* **Consider Emergency Preparedness:** Be aware of ER wait times and have a plan for emergencies.
* **Discuss Concerns with Healthcare Providers:** Communicate any concerns or questions to their doctors.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep abreast of any changes or improvements at local hospitals.

By understanding the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions, residents can ensure they receive the best possible care. The Anderson Regional Health System provides essential services to the community, and by staying informed and proactive, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively. The "Overall Health Score" is intended to be a helpful guide, but individual needs and preferences should always be considered when making healthcare decisions.