39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39402, Hattiesburg, Mississippi is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hattiesburg, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39402)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Hattiesburg, Mississippi area (ZIP Code 39402), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about your healthcare needs.

**The Landscape:** Hattiesburg, a regional hub in south-central Mississippi, offers a concentrated healthcare market primarily served by two major hospital systems: Forrest General Hospital and Merit Health Wesley. Both institutions compete for patients and offer a comprehensive suite of services.

**Forrest General Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

Forrest General Hospital (FGH), the flagship facility of Forrest Health, is a dominant player in the region. Located at 6011 Hwy 49, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, it’s a large, acute-care facility with a broad range of specialties. The hospital’s size and scope often translate to greater resources and a wider array of treatment options.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** Forrest General Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on a variety of quality measures, indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. CMS evaluates hospitals on factors like mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care. The 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement, and prospective patients should delve deeper into specific performance indicators.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical concern for patients. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to understand the average performance. Forrest General Hospital generally experiences moderate ER wait times, often reflecting the high volume of patients. Patients should utilize online tools, such as those provided by the hospital or third-party aggregators, to check current wait times before arriving at the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Forrest General boasts a robust network of specialty centers. The hospital houses a comprehensive cardiac care program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. Its cancer center offers radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. FGH also features a dedicated women's health center, a robust orthopedic program, and a well-regarded neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). These specialized programs are essential for patients requiring advanced care.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Forrest General Hospital has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for various specialties. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The hospital's telehealth platform likely includes options for video consultations, remote patient monitoring, and secure messaging.

**Merit Health Wesley: A Competitive Alternative**

Merit Health Wesley, located at 5000 Hardy St, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, provides a second major healthcare option. It is a part of the larger Merit Health system, which operates multiple hospitals across Mississippi.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** Merit Health Wesley currently holds a 2-star rating from CMS. This indicates performance below the national average. As with Forrest General, patients should investigate specific quality metrics to understand the areas where the hospital may be struggling. Reviewing data on infection rates, complication rates, and patient satisfaction scores is highly recommended.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Merit Health Wesley also fluctuate. Patients should check current wait times using online resources. While the hospital strives to provide timely care, wait times can be influenced by patient volume and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Merit Health Wesley offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and surgical services. The hospital also has a women's health center and a labor and delivery unit. While not as extensive as Forrest General's offerings, Merit Health Wesley provides essential services for the Hattiesburg community.

**Telehealth Availability:** Merit Health Wesley also provides telehealth services, allowing patients to access care remotely. This is a crucial component of modern healthcare, enhancing access and convenience. Details about the specific telehealth services offered, such as the types of consultations available and the technology used, can be found on the hospital's website.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the two major hospitals, the Hattiesburg area has a network of outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices. These facilities offer a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Patients should consider these options for non-emergency care and follow-up appointments.

**Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers operate in the Hattiesburg area, providing convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries. These centers typically have shorter wait times than hospital ERs and offer a cost-effective alternative for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Specialty Clinics:** Numerous specialty clinics cater to specific medical needs, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology. Patients with chronic conditions or specific health concerns should seek care from these specialized providers.

**Factors Affecting Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment, considering the following factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A crucial indicator of overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Reflecting the efficiency and accessibility of emergency care.
* **Specialty Services:** The breadth and depth of available medical expertise.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The use of technology to enhance access to care.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Measured through surveys and online reviews.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission indicates adherence to quality standards.
* **Community Health Needs:** Addressing the specific healthcare needs of the Hattiesburg population.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Researching hospital websites, reading patient reviews, and consulting with primary care physicians are essential steps.

**Conclusion:**

The Hattiesburg healthcare market offers two primary hospital choices, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Forrest General Hospital, with its 3-star CMS rating, boasts a more extensive range of specialty services and a robust telehealth program. Merit Health Wesley, with its 2-star rating, provides a competitive alternative. Both hospitals offer essential services and contribute to the healthcare needs of the community. Patients should carefully evaluate their options, considering the factors outlined in this review, to make the best decision for their health. Continuous monitoring of performance metrics and a proactive approach to healthcare choices are essential for optimal health outcomes. Remember to check the most recent data, as hospital performance can change.