29197, Johnston, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 29197, Johnston, Rhode Island is 0 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 29197 (Swansea, SC)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. For residents near Swansea, South Carolina (ZIP code 29197), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the relative proximity of hospitals in the surrounding areas, this review will consider facilities within a reasonable driving distance, offering a more comprehensive picture of available healthcare options.

**The Landscape: Limited Direct Options, Regional Reliance**

Swansea itself is a smaller community, and directly within the 29197 ZIP code, hospital options are limited. Residents primarily rely on hospitals in nearby cities like Columbia, Lexington, and Orangeburg. This necessitates considering travel time and the availability of transportation when evaluating healthcare choices. This review will focus on hospitals that are realistically accessible to residents of Swansea.

**Flagship Hospitals: Columbia's Dominance**

The primary hub for advanced medical care in the region is Columbia, offering several flagship hospitals. These facilities often boast a wider range of specialties, advanced technology, and higher patient volumes.

**Prisma Health Richland Hospital:** Located in Columbia, Prisma Health Richland is a major player. This hospital is a Level I Trauma Center, crucial for handling severe injuries and emergencies. As of the latest publicly available data, Prisma Health Richland holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's important to remember that CMS ratings are just one metric. The hospital’s emergency room sees a high volume of patients, and average wait times can fluctuate. Real-time ER wait times are often available on the Prisma Health website or through third-party apps, and it is recommended that patients check these before heading to the ER. Prisma Health Richland offers a broad spectrum of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Telehealth services are also available, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up appointments remotely.

**Prisma Health Baptist Hospital:** Another significant facility in Columbia, Prisma Health Baptist, is known for its comprehensive services. This hospital also has a CMS rating, with the most recent data indicating a 3-star rating. Like Richland, Baptist is a busy facility. The ER sees a significant number of patients, and wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated. Prisma Health Baptist has a strong reputation for its cardiac care and women's health services. Telehealth options are increasingly available, providing patients with convenient access to healthcare professionals.

**Lexington Medical Center:** Located in West Columbia, Lexington Medical Center is a highly regarded hospital serving the region. It consistently receives high marks for patient satisfaction and quality of care. Lexington Medical Center has a 4-star rating from CMS, reflecting its strong performance across various quality metrics. The hospital is a large facility with a busy emergency room. Lexington Medical Center's ER wait times are generally competitive with other hospitals in the area, and real-time wait times are readily available online. The hospital offers a wide array of specialty services, including a comprehensive cancer center, a robust cardiology program, and a dedicated women's pavilion. Telehealth services are also expanding, offering patients more convenient access to care.

**Other Options: Expanding the Scope**

While the above hospitals are the primary choices, other facilities may be relevant depending on specific needs.

**Orangeburg Regional Hospital:** Located in Orangeburg, this hospital provides services closer to the southern edge of the 29197 ZIP code. Orangeburg Regional offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and various specialty clinics. CMS data indicates a 3-star rating. ER wait times can vary.

**Specialty Centers: Targeted Care**

Beyond general hospitals, specialized centers offer focused care for specific conditions.

**Cancer Centers:** Both Prisma Health Richland and Lexington Medical Center have well-regarded cancer centers, providing comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. These centers often offer support services, such as counseling and patient navigation.

**Cardiac Centers:** Both Prisma Health Baptist and Lexington Medical Center have strong cardiology programs, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options for heart conditions. These centers often perform complex procedures like angioplasty and open-heart surgery.

**Women's Health Centers:** Lexington Medical Center has a dedicated women's pavilion, offering a wide range of services, including obstetrics, gynecology, and mammography. Prisma Health Baptist also has a robust women's health program.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in emergencies. These times can vary significantly depending on the hospital, the time of day, and the volume of patients. Real-time ER wait times are often available on hospital websites or through third-party apps. It's advisable to check these before heading to the ER, if possible.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. Both Prisma Health and Lexington Medical Center offer telehealth options, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and other services remotely. This can be especially beneficial for residents of Swansea, reducing the need for travel.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

* **Accessibility:** The proximity of hospitals to Swansea is a significant factor. Residents should consider travel time and transportation options.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only indicator of quality, CMS ratings provide a valuable benchmark for overall hospital performance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Quick access to emergency care is crucial. Real-time wait times should be considered.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized care for specific conditions is important.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** While not directly quantified in this score, patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

For residents of 29197, the best options are the hospitals in Columbia and Lexington. Lexington Medical Center, with its 4-star CMS rating, generally offers a high level of care. Prisma Health Richland and Baptist, while having 3-star ratings, offer a wide range of services and are Level I Trauma Centers. ER wait times are a variable factor and should be monitored. Telehealth options are available at these hospitals, providing additional access to care. The choice of hospital will depend on individual needs, insurance coverage, and the specific services required. Orangeburg Regional Hospital offers a closer alternative but may have fewer specialized services. Residents should research each hospital carefully and consider their specific healthcare needs when making their decisions. Ongoing monitoring of ER wait times and the availability of telehealth services is recommended.