39401, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39401, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hattiesburg, MS (ZIP Code 39401)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Hattiesburg, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39401), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, offering a comprehensive look at the healthcare landscape.

**The Landscape: Hattiesburg and Its Healthcare Ecosystem**

Hattiesburg, a city in south-central Mississippi, is served by a network of hospitals and healthcare providers. The primary players are Forrest General Hospital and Merit Health Wesley. These institutions are crucial for the region's health, serving a population with diverse medical needs. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is vital for residents.

**Forrest General Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Forrest General Hospital (FGH), located at 6061 Hwy 98 W, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, is the dominant healthcare provider in the area. It's a large, regional medical center offering a wide array of services. FGH is the flagship hospital in the area and is often the first choice for many residents.

**CMS Star Rating:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors. As of the latest available data, Forrest General Hospital holds a respectable, but not exceptional, **3-star rating** from CMS. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. The rating is a crucial indicator of overall quality, encompassing various aspects of patient care.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical concern for many patients. FGH's ER wait times, based on publicly available data, are generally in line with national averages. However, specific wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. It is advisable to check current wait times on their website or through third-party apps before heading to the ER. The ER at FGH is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, with a dedicated team of physicians, nurses, and support staff.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** FGH boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. The hospital has a robust heart and vascular institute, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery. It also has a well-regarded cancer center, providing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other cancer treatments. The Women's Hospital at Forrest General offers comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological services, including labor and delivery, and specialized care for women's health issues. Other notable specialty centers include a comprehensive stroke center, a wound care center, and a rehabilitation center.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** FGH has embraced telehealth to expand access to care. They offer telehealth consultations for various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. Telehealth allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The hospital continues to expand its telehealth offerings to meet the growing demand for virtual care.

**Merit Health Wesley: A Closer Look**

Merit Health Wesley, located at 5820 Hwy 98 W, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, is the other major hospital in the Hattiesburg area. It offers a range of medical services, competing with FGH for patient care.

**CMS Star Rating:** Merit Health Wesley, according to the latest CMS data, also holds a **3-star rating**. This indicates a similar level of overall quality to FGH, based on the CMS assessment criteria.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Merit Health Wesley are also subject to the same variables as at FGH. Checking the hospital's website or using third-party resources for real-time wait times is recommended. The ER at Merit Health Wesley is staffed with experienced medical professionals to handle a variety of emergency situations.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Merit Health Wesley offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and gastroenterology. The hospital has a dedicated surgical center for various procedures. It also provides women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology. While the range of specialty services may be slightly less extensive than at FGH, Merit Health Wesley provides essential care for the community.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** Merit Health Wesley has also invested in telehealth capabilities. They offer telehealth consultations for certain specialties, allowing patients to access care remotely. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth programs to enhance patient convenience and access to care.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Flagship Hospitals**

While Forrest General Hospital and Merit Health Wesley are the primary hospitals, other healthcare providers in the area contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem. These include urgent care clinics, outpatient centers, and specialist practices.

**Urgent Care Clinics:** Several urgent care clinics operate in the Hattiesburg area, providing convenient access to care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. These clinics often offer shorter wait times than hospital ERs and are a good option for minor medical needs.

**Outpatient Centers:** Outpatient centers offer a variety of services, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory testing, and physical therapy. These centers provide convenient access to specialized care without the need for a hospital stay.

**Specialist Practices:** Numerous specialist practices in Hattiesburg offer specialized care in various fields, such as cardiology, dermatology, and ophthalmology. These practices provide access to expert medical care for specific health conditions.

**Analyzing the Data: Putting it All Together**

Comparing the two main hospitals, Forrest General Hospital and Merit Health Wesley, reveals similar overall quality scores based on CMS star ratings. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, including emergency care, specialty centers, and telehealth options. ER wait times can vary, so checking real-time data is crucial.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Specific Medical Needs:** If you have a specific medical condition, research the hospitals' specialty centers and the expertise of their physicians.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Location and Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access, especially in an emergency.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the patient experience at each hospital.
* **Telehealth Availability:** If you prefer virtual consultations, check the telehealth offerings of each hospital.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the available data, both Forrest General Hospital and Merit Health Wesley offer adequate healthcare services to the residents of Hattiesburg and the surrounding areas. Both hospitals have a 3-star CMS rating, indicating average performance. FGH boasts a more extensive range of specialty centers, while both hospitals are making strides in telehealth.

**Recommendations:**

* For routine medical needs, consider your insurance coverage, location, and personal preferences.
* For emergencies, go to the nearest ER or call 911.
* Research specific specialists and services if you have complex medical needs.
* Utilize telehealth options for convenient access to care.
* Stay informed about healthcare developments in the area.

This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape near ZIP Code 39401. Making informed healthcare decisions requires careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.