39666, Summit, Mississippi Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 39666, Summit, Mississippi is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 39666 (Poplarville, Mississippi)

Navigating healthcare can be a daunting task. For residents of Poplarville, Mississippi (ZIP code 39666), understanding the landscape of available medical facilities is crucial for making informed decisions about their health. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on key factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability, offering a comprehensive overview of the healthcare options in and around the area. Given the rural nature of the region, the focus will be on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, typically within a 50-mile radius.

**The Landscape: Limited but Focused**

Poplarville, Mississippi, is a relatively small community. The healthcare options directly within the town are limited, necessitating travel to larger regional centers for specialized care. This review will consider facilities in surrounding areas, including Hattiesburg and Picayune, to provide a more complete picture.

**Key Considerations: CMS Star Ratings, ER Wait Times, and More**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website is a vital resource. CMS assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. These ratings, while not perfect, offer a valuable benchmark for comparing hospitals. Emergency room wait times are another critical factor. Long wait times can be indicative of overcrowding and resource constraints, potentially impacting the speed and quality of care. Specialty centers, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, are essential for addressing specific health needs. Finally, the availability of telehealth services is increasingly important, offering convenient access to care, especially for those in rural areas.

**The Flagship: Forrest General Hospital (Hattiesburg, MS)**

Forrest General Hospital (FGH), located in Hattiesburg, is arguably the most significant healthcare provider within a reasonable distance of Poplarville. FGH is a large, regional medical center, serving a broad population base. As of the latest available data, FGH holds a 3-star rating from CMS. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of quality. It's crucial to remember that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

**Emergency Room Performance at Forrest General**

ER wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to consider average wait times and the overall ER volume. FGH's ER is a busy facility, and wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of patient cases. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, particularly during peak hours. Checking online resources or calling the hospital directly for current wait times is advisable before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Centers at Forrest General**

FGH boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services. Key areas include:

* **Cardiology:** The hospital has a dedicated cardiology program, providing services such as diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.
* **Oncology:** The cancer center offers comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.
* **Orthopedics:** FGH provides orthopedic services, including joint replacements, sports medicine, and fracture care.
* **Women's Health:** The hospital has a dedicated women's health center, offering services such as obstetrics, gynecology, and mammography.
* **Neurology:** Neurology services, including stroke care and neurological consultations, are available.

**Telehealth at Forrest General**

FGH has invested in telehealth services. The hospital offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, providing patients with convenient access to care from the comfort of their homes. This is particularly beneficial for residents of rural areas like Poplarville, reducing the need for travel. The specifics of available telehealth services, including specialties and appointment scheduling, can be found on the hospital's website.

**Other Options: Ochsner Medical Center - Hancock (Bay St. Louis, MS)**

While not directly in the immediate vicinity, Ochsner Medical Center - Hancock, located in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is within a reasonable driving distance and offers an alternative. This facility is part of the larger Ochsner Health System, a well-regarded regional network.

**Ochsner Hancock: A Different Perspective**

Ochsner Hancock has a 3-star rating from CMS. This hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialty services. While it may not have the same breadth of services as Forrest General, it provides another option for residents of the area.

**Emergency Room Performance at Ochsner Hancock**

ER wait times at Ochsner Hancock are subject to the same fluctuations as other hospitals. Patients should expect potential wait times and check for current information before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Centers at Ochsner Hancock**

Ochsner Hancock offers a selection of specialty services. These include:

* **Cardiology:** Diagnostic and treatment services for heart conditions.
* **Orthopedics:** Orthopedic care and surgical procedures.
* **General Surgery:** A range of surgical services.
* **Primary Care:** Convenient access to primary care physicians.

**Telehealth at Ochsner Hancock**

Ochsner Health System is known for its robust telehealth offerings. Ochsner Hancock likely provides access to these telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with specialists and primary care physicians remotely. Detailed information on available telehealth services can be found on the Ochsner website.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Clinics and Urgent Care**

In addition to the larger hospitals, Poplarville residents have access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities. These facilities can provide basic medical care, such as treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, vaccinations, and routine checkups. However, they generally lack the specialized services and resources of the larger hospitals.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 39666 is best assessed by considering the following:

* **Forrest General Hospital:** Offers the most comprehensive range of services and is the flagship facility in the region. The 3-star CMS rating indicates an acceptable level of quality, and the hospital's extensive specialty centers are a major advantage. However, patients should be prepared for potential ER wait times. Telehealth services are available, providing convenient access to care.
* **Ochsner Medical Center - Hancock:** Provides a viable alternative, particularly for those seeking care within the Ochsner network. The 3-star CMS rating indicates a comparable level of quality. Telehealth services are likely available.
* **Smaller Clinics and Urgent Care:** Offer convenient access for basic medical needs but lack the specialized resources of the larger hospitals.

**Factors to Consider for Individual Needs**

* **Specific Medical Needs:** Individuals with complex medical conditions should carefully consider the availability of specialized services when choosing a healthcare provider.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the chosen hospital and providers are within your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors such as the hospital's location, patient reviews, and overall reputation.
* **Telehealth Accessibility:** Assess the availability of telehealth services for your specific needs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near Poplarville, Mississippi, offers a mix of options. Forrest General Hospital serves as the primary regional medical center, providing a wide array of services. Ochsner Hancock offers an alternative within a reasonable distance. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences when making healthcare decisions. Proactive research, including checking CMS ratings, assessing ER wait times, and exploring telehealth options, will empower residents to make informed choices and access the best possible care. While the region may not boast the same density of healthcare providers as a major metropolitan area, the available facilities, particularly Forrest General, offer a solid foundation for addressing the healthcare needs of the community. Ongoing monitoring of hospital performance and the evolving telehealth landscape is essential for staying informed and making the best healthcare choices.