39443, Laurel, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39443, Laurel, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hattiesburg, MS (ZIP Code 39443)

The Hattiesburg, Mississippi area, anchored by the 39443 ZIP code, presents a healthcare landscape shaped by regional needs and the presence of a major university. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals in this vicinity requires a deep dive into factors ranging from quality ratings and emergency room efficiency to specialized services and telehealth accessibility. This review focuses on the most prominent healthcare providers, offering a fact-rich assessment for residents seeking informed choices.

**The Flagship: Forrest General Hospital**

Forrest General Hospital, located in Hattiesburg, is the dominant healthcare provider in the area. As a large, regional medical center, it serves as a critical hub for both routine and specialized care. Its performance is a key indicator of the overall health score for the region.

Forrest General holds a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on a composite of factors including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care, places it above the national average. This suggests a generally high standard of care, but also indicates areas where improvement is possible.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial metric. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, data suggests Forrest General typically experiences wait times in line with, or slightly below, the national average for similar-sized hospitals. This is a positive indicator, reflecting efficient triage and patient flow management. However, it is crucial to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms before seeking emergency care.

Forrest General boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Its Heart and Vascular Institute provides advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital’s cancer center offers radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. The Women's Pavilion provides comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological care. Other specialized services include a dedicated neurosciences center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a robust rehabilitation program.

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Forrest General offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists and remote patient monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for patients in outlying areas, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Specific data on telehealth utilization rates and patient satisfaction is often available on the hospital's website or through its patient portal.

**Other Key Players and Considerations**

While Forrest General is the primary provider, other facilities contribute to the overall health score. These include outpatient clinics, specialty practices, and potentially smaller community hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.

The availability of urgent care centers is another factor. These facilities offer a convenient option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, helping to alleviate pressure on hospital emergency rooms. The presence and accessibility of these centers contribute to the overall accessibility of care.

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), located in Hattiesburg, plays a role in healthcare through its nursing and allied health programs. These programs contribute to the local healthcare workforce, ensuring a pipeline of trained professionals. The university also supports research initiatives that can lead to advancements in medical care.

**Assessing Specific Specialties: A Deeper Dive**

Evaluating the quality of care in specific specialties is crucial for a comprehensive health score.

**Cardiology:** Forrest General's Heart and Vascular Institute is a significant asset. Analyzing its performance requires looking at metrics like success rates for cardiac procedures (e.g., angioplasty, bypass surgery), patient survival rates after heart attacks, and adherence to national guidelines for heart failure management.

**Oncology:** The cancer center's capabilities are vital. Assessment involves examining the availability of advanced treatment options (e.g., targeted therapies, immunotherapy), patient survival rates, and access to clinical trials. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer is a positive indicator.

**Neurology and Stroke Care:** The presence of a certified stroke center is critical. This certification signifies adherence to stringent standards for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients. Evaluating the center involves looking at door-to-needle times (the time from patient arrival to receiving thrombolytic medication), stroke patient outcomes, and access to advanced imaging technologies.

**Maternity Care:** The Women's Pavilion's performance is essential for families. Key metrics include Cesarean section rates, rates of complications during childbirth, and the availability of specialized services for high-risk pregnancies.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

The expansion of telehealth services is a significant trend. Assessing the effectiveness of telehealth programs involves looking at patient satisfaction scores, the types of services offered (e.g., primary care, specialist consultations, mental health), and the technology infrastructure supporting these services. The ability to offer remote patient monitoring, particularly for chronic conditions like diabetes or heart failure, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

**Mental Health Services: A Critical Component**

Mental health services are a crucial element of overall health. Evaluating the availability and quality of mental health care involves looking at the presence of inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient therapy services, and access to psychiatric medications. The availability of crisis intervention services and support groups is also important.

**Data and Transparency: The Foundation of Informed Decisions**

Accessing reliable data is paramount. Hospital websites should provide information on quality metrics, patient satisfaction scores, and other relevant data. The CMS Hospital Compare website is a valuable resource, offering comparative data on hospital performance. State health departments also often provide data on healthcare quality and access.

**Community Health and Social Determinants**

The overall health score is not solely determined by hospital performance. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation also play a critical role. These social determinants of health can significantly impact individual and community well-being.

**Challenges and Opportunities**

The Hattiesburg area faces challenges common to many rural regions, including potential shortages of healthcare professionals and limited access to specialized services in some areas. However, the presence of a major hospital like Forrest General, the university, and a growing telehealth infrastructure present opportunities for improving healthcare access and quality.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 39443 reflects a complex interplay of factors. Forrest General Hospital serves as the primary provider, with a good CMS star rating and a comprehensive range of services. The availability of specialized care, the expansion of telehealth, and the presence of urgent care centers contribute positively. However, it is essential to consider specific specialty performance, mental health services, and community health factors. By utilizing available data, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, and the community can work to address challenges and build a healthier future. The ongoing monitoring of performance metrics, coupled with a commitment to addressing social determinants of health, will be crucial for maintaining and improving the overall health score for the Hattiesburg area.