37339, Gruetli Laager, Tennessee Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 37339, Gruetli Laager, Tennessee is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Cleveland, Tennessee (ZIP Code 37339)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Cleveland, Tennessee, and the surrounding area (ZIP Code 37339), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities to offer a comprehensive picture of the healthcare options available.

**The Flagship: CHI Memorial Hospital - Cleveland**

CHI Memorial Hospital - Cleveland (formerly known as Bradley Memorial Hospital) is the primary hospital serving the area. As a flagship facility, it's the first point of call for many residents. Its performance, however, is a mixed bag. While it's a large hospital with a broad range of services, it currently holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects overall performance based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it suggests areas where improvement could be beneficial.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance at CHI Memorial - Cleveland:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for evaluating hospital performance. Unfortunately, specific, publicly available data on average ER wait times for CHI Memorial - Cleveland is difficult to pin down to the minute. However, anecdotal evidence and patient reviews suggest that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the presenting condition. Generally, expect to wait longer during peak hours and for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Services at CHI Memorial - Cleveland:**

CHI Memorial - Cleveland offers a wide array of specialty services. It has a comprehensive cardiology program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital also houses a robust cancer center, providing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. Other notable specialties include orthopedics, general surgery, and a women's health center. The hospital also provides intensive care unit (ICU) services for critical patients.

**Telehealth Integration at CHI Memorial - Cleveland:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for rural communities. CHI Memorial - Cleveland has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in areas like behavioral health and certain specialist consultations. This allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations that don't require physical examination. The availability and scope of telehealth services are continuously evolving, so it's advisable to check with the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities:**

While CHI Memorial - Cleveland is the primary hospital, several other healthcare facilities contribute to the overall health ecosystem near ZIP code 37339. These include:

* **Parkridge East Hospital (Chattanooga):** Located a reasonable driving distance from Cleveland, Parkridge East Hospital is a larger facility that often serves as a referral center for more complex cases. It is a part of the HCA Healthcare network.
* **Erlanger Health System (Chattanooga):** Erlanger is a large health system with multiple facilities, including Erlanger Hospital. It is a Level I Trauma Center and a regional referral center.
* **Local Urgent Care Clinics:** Several urgent care clinics provide immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. These clinics can be a good option for illnesses or injuries that require prompt attention but don't necessitate an emergency room visit.
* **Outpatient Clinics and Physician Practices:** Numerous physician practices and outpatient clinics offer primary care, specialist consultations, and other healthcare services.

**Comparative Analysis and Considerations:**

Comparing the performance of hospitals near ZIP Code 37339 involves considering several factors. CMS star ratings are a useful starting point, but they don't tell the whole story. Patient reviews, personal experiences, and the specific needs of the individual patient should also be considered.

**Parkridge East Hospital** offers a wider range of services and often has a higher CMS star rating than CHI Memorial - Cleveland. However, the drive to Chattanooga adds travel time and potential inconvenience. **Erlanger Health System** is a regional leader in trauma care and complex medical cases, making it a valuable resource. However, its location in Chattanooga also requires travel.

**Urgent care clinics** are a convenient option for minor ailments, but they don't offer the same level of care as a full-service hospital. **Physician practices** provide continuity of care and personalized attention, but they may not have the resources to handle emergencies or complex medical issues.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Severity of the Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies, the closest emergency room is usually the best choice. For less urgent needs, consider wait times and the availability of specialized services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care, research the hospitals that offer the relevant services and have experienced physicians.
* **Patient Reviews and Reputation:** Read online reviews and talk to friends and family to get a sense of the hospital's reputation and patient satisfaction.
* **Location and Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access, especially if you have mobility issues or rely on public transportation.
* **Telehealth Availability:** If you value the convenience of telehealth, check which hospitals offer the services you need.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP Code 37339 offers a range of options. CHI Memorial - Cleveland is the primary hospital, providing a broad spectrum of services. However, its CMS star rating indicates areas for improvement. The availability of Parkridge East Hospital and Erlanger Health System in Chattanooga provides access to more specialized care and higher-rated facilities, albeit with the added travel time. Local urgent care clinics and physician practices offer convenient alternatives for less complex needs.

**Overall, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP Code 37339 is "Average to Good," with the caveat that the specific choice of hospital depends heavily on individual needs and preferences.** Residents should carefully consider their healthcare needs, research their options, and make informed decisions based on the available information. It's also important to stay informed about the latest developments in healthcare technology and services, including the expanding role of telehealth.