37335, Flintville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 37335, Flintville, Tennessee is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Dayton, TN (ZIP Code 37335)

Navigating healthcare can be a daunting task. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Dayton, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37335), considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This analysis aims to equip residents with the information necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Dayton, Tennessee, is a relatively rural area. The healthcare landscape reflects this, with a mix of community hospitals and larger regional facilities. Proximity to Chattanooga, a larger metropolitan area, expands access to specialized care. This review will consider hospitals within a 50-mile radius, acknowledging that travel time and convenience are crucial considerations.

**Key Performance Indicators**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a composite assessment based on several key performance indicators (KPIs). These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system (1-5 stars) for hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors. This is a readily available and widely recognized metric.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, reflecting a hospital's ability to handle urgent medical needs promptly. Data from sources like ProPublica and individual hospital websites will be considered.
* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is crucial for complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The increasing importance of telehealth, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations, will be assessed.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores, often derived from surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide insights into the patient experience.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare is a sign of quality and adherence to specific standards.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

**1. CHI Memorial Hospital (Chattanooga, TN):** This is a major regional hospital, located approximately 35 miles from Dayton. CHI Memorial is a large, multi-campus system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CHI Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary depending on the specific campus and time of day. Data suggests average wait times are generally within the national average.
* **Specialty Centers:** CHI Memorial boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including a heart institute, cancer institute, and neuroscience center. They also offer a robust robotic surgery program.
* **Telehealth:** CHI Memorial has expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual visits for a range of specialties.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are generally in line with the national average.
* **Overall Assessment:** CHI Memorial is a strong option for complex medical needs, with a wide range of services and specialists. However, the 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement. The distance from Dayton should be considered.

**2. Erlanger Health System (Chattanooga, TN):** Erlanger is another major hospital system in Chattanooga, with multiple campuses.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Erlanger has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** Erlanger's ER wait times can vary, but they are generally comparable to CHI Memorial.
* **Specialty Centers:** Erlanger offers a wide range of specialty services, including a Level I Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and specialized pediatric care at T.C. Thompson Children's Hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Erlanger has invested in telehealth capabilities, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring services.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are generally average.
* **Overall Assessment:** Erlanger is a well-equipped hospital system with extensive resources. The Level I Trauma Center is a significant asset. The 3-star rating is a factor to consider. The distance from Dayton is similar to CHI Memorial.

**3. Parkridge Health System (Chattanooga, TN):** Parkridge is a multi-campus system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Parkridge has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times vary depending on the campus.
* **Specialty Centers:** Parkridge offers a range of specialty services, including cardiac care, orthopedic surgery, and women's health.
* **Telehealth:** Parkridge has telehealth options.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are average.
* **Overall Assessment:** Parkridge provides a range of services, but the 3-star rating and the proximity to other large hospital systems, make it a less compelling option.

**4. Rhea Medical Center (Dayton, TN):** This is the closest hospital to ZIP Code 37335.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Rhea Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals in Chattanooga.
* **Specialty Centers:** Rhea Medical Center offers basic medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. It has limited specialty services.
* **Telehealth:** Rhea Medical Center has telehealth options.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are generally average.
* **Overall Assessment:** Rhea Medical Center is a convenient option for basic medical needs and emergencies. The limited specialty services mean that patients with complex conditions may need to travel to Chattanooga.

**5. Memorial Hospital of East Tennessee (Knoxville, TN):** This hospital is located approximately 90 miles from Dayton.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Memorial Hospital of East Tennessee has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** Memorial Hospital of East Tennessee offers a range of specialty services, including cardiac care, orthopedic surgery, and women's health.
* **Telehealth:** Memorial Hospital of East Tennessee has telehealth options.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are average.
* **Overall Assessment:** Memorial Hospital of East Tennessee is an option for those who prefer a larger hospital system, but the distance from Dayton is a significant factor.

**Other Considerations**

* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in the Dayton area and in Chattanooga. These can be a convenient option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in determining which hospitals and providers are accessible.
* **Personal Preferences:** Patient preferences, such as the desire for a specific specialist or a particular hospital environment, should also be considered.

**Telehealth Stats and Trends**

Telehealth usage has surged in recent years, and hospitals near Dayton are adapting. While specific statistics for each hospital system are not always publicly available, the trend is clear: more virtual visits are being offered. This includes primary care, specialist consultations, and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**ER Wait Time Specifics**

ER wait times are a dynamic metric. While general data is available, actual wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and the number of patients seeking care. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools to get real-time wait time estimates is advisable before heading to the emergency room.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available data, here's a general assessment of the hospitals near ZIP Code 37335:

* **For Routine Care and Emergencies:** Rhea Medical Center offers the most convenient access.
* **For Specialized Care:** CHI Memorial and Erlanger Health System in Chattanooga offer the most comprehensive specialty services.
* **For Telehealth:** All the major hospital systems have expanded their telehealth offerings.
* **For CMS Star Ratings:** The hospitals in this area generally have average ratings.

**Important Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns. Hospital performance can change, so it's essential to verify information directly with the hospitals and providers before making any healthcare decisions. The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment and should be considered alongside individual needs and preferences.