39501, Gulfport, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39501, Gulfport, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Biloxi, MS (ZIP Code 39501)

The Gulf Coast of Mississippi, particularly the Biloxi area (ZIP Code 39501), is served by a network of hospitals and healthcare providers. Assessing the “Overall Health Score” of these facilities requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, patient experience, and specialized services. This review will delve into the key players, providing a snapshot of their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data and industry benchmarks.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

The dominant healthcare provider in the region is **Singing River Health System**, a network encompassing several hospitals. Their flagship facility, **Singing River Hospital in Pascagoula**, while not directly within the 39501 ZIP code, is a significant regional resource. It holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, a measure reflecting overall quality and patient outcomes. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally acceptable level of care. Specific data points to examine include infection rates, readmission rates, and patient satisfaction scores, all of which contribute to the CMS star rating.

**Memorial Hospital at Gulfport** is another major player, situated slightly west of the 39501 ZIP code. Memorial Hospital is a large, comprehensive facility. CMS data indicates a **3-star rating**. This hospital offers a wide range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive cardiac program, and a cancer center. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys are crucial in assessing the quality of care at Memorial.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and access to care. These times can vary significantly depending on the day, time, and patient volume. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to check hospital websites or third-party platforms (like Google) for the most up-to-date information. Generally, shorter wait times are preferable, indicating a more efficient ER system. Long wait times can lead to increased patient anxiety and potentially delay necessary treatment.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The availability of specialized services significantly impacts the overall health score of a hospital. **Singing River Hospital** offers specialized care in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Their cardiac program is particularly noteworthy, providing advanced treatments for heart conditions. **Memorial Hospital at Gulfport** boasts a comprehensive cancer center, offering a range of treatments including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. They also have specialized units for stroke care and intensive care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in areas with potential access limitations. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual appointments can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility challenges. Both **Singing River Health System** and **Memorial Hospital at Gulfport** have been expanding their telehealth offerings. The scope and availability of these services are crucial in determining the Overall Health Score.

**Specific Considerations for the 39501 Area**

The 39501 ZIP code encompasses a diverse population, including a significant elderly population and a large military presence. This demographic mix necessitates a healthcare system that can address a wide range of medical needs, from geriatric care to specialized services for veterans.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Accessibility includes factors like ease of scheduling appointments, availability of transportation, and the presence of multilingual staff. Patient experience encompasses factors like communication with doctors, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall comfort of the patient. Hospitals with positive patient experience scores tend to have better outcomes and higher levels of patient satisfaction. Both **Singing River Health System** and **Memorial Hospital at Gulfport** have patient portals and online resources to improve accessibility.

**Comparative Analysis: Strengths and Weaknesses**

**Singing River Hospital** benefits from its comprehensive services and established presence in the region. Its strengths include its cardiac program and its network of clinics. However, its CMS star rating, while acceptable, is not at the highest level.

**Memorial Hospital at Gulfport** offers a broad range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center and a cancer center. Its strengths lie in its specialized programs. However, like Singing River, its CMS rating is in the middle range.

**Other Considerations**

The quality of nursing care is a critical factor in patient outcomes. Hospitals with a high nurse-to-patient ratio and a supportive work environment for nurses tend to have better patient outcomes. The availability of advanced medical technology, such as robotic surgery and advanced imaging equipment, also contributes to the overall health score.

**Community Health Needs Assessments**

Hospitals are required to conduct Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs). These assessments identify the specific health needs of the community they serve. The findings of these assessments can provide valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by residents of the 39501 area, such as chronic disease prevalence, access to mental health services, and social determinants of health.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The hospitals near the 39501 ZIP code offer a range of services and are committed to providing quality healthcare. The CMS star ratings provide a useful benchmark for overall quality, but it is important to consider a variety of factors, including ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and patient experience. Both **Singing River Hospital** and **Memorial Hospital at Gulfport** are significant regional resources, and their strengths and weaknesses should be considered when making healthcare decisions. Prospective patients should research specific services, check patient reviews, and consider their individual needs when selecting a healthcare provider. The Overall Health Score for the region is a complex calculation, requiring a nuanced understanding of the available resources and the needs of the community. Ongoing monitoring of these factors is crucial to ensure that residents of the 39501 area have access to the best possible healthcare.