37643, Elizabethton, Tennessee Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 37643, Elizabethton, Tennessee is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 37643 (Johnson City, TN)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in the vicinity of ZIP code 37643 (Johnson City, TN), focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability. This information aims to empower informed decision-making for residents seeking quality medical care.

**The Landscape: Hospitals in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Johnson City area are Ballad Health facilities. This integrated health system dominates the region, offering a network of hospitals and outpatient services. The analysis will concentrate on the flagship hospitals within this system, as they represent the primary options for residents.

**Flagship Hospital: Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC)**

Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC) is the largest hospital in the immediate vicinity of 37643. It’s a Level I Trauma Center, indicating its capacity to handle the most critical injuries and illnesses. JCMC serves as a regional referral center, accepting patients from a wide geographic area.

**CMS Star Rating:** JCMC’s CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a crucial indicator of overall quality. The most recent data available shows JCMC with a **3-star rating**. This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible score, it suggests an average level of performance compared to other hospitals nationally.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a significant concern for patients. JCMC’s ER wait times fluctuate, but recent data indicates a median wait time that often exceeds the national average. This can be attributed to high patient volume and the complexity of cases handled. Patients should be prepared for potentially longer waits, especially during peak hours or in times of high community illness.

**Specialty Centers at JCMC:** JCMC houses a range of specialty centers. The hospital boasts a comprehensive heart and vascular institute, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery. It also has a dedicated cancer center providing radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. Other key specialties include neurosurgery, orthopedics, and a comprehensive women's health program.

**Telehealth Availability at JCMC:** Ballad Health, as a system, has invested in telehealth. JCMC offers telehealth services, including virtual visits for certain specialties and remote monitoring programs. This allows patients to access care remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. The availability of telehealth services is constantly evolving, so patients should check directly with JCMC for the most current offerings.

**Another Key Player: Franklin Woods Community Hospital**

Franklin Woods Community Hospital, also part of the Ballad Health system, is located in Johnson City. It serves as a community hospital, providing a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services.

**CMS Star Rating:** Franklin Woods Community Hospital currently holds a **4-star rating** from CMS. This higher rating compared to JCMC suggests a potentially stronger performance in areas such as patient outcomes and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Franklin Woods generally has shorter ER wait times compared to JCMC. This may be due to a lower patient volume and the nature of cases handled. Patients seeking emergency care may find shorter wait times at Franklin Woods, depending on their specific condition and the current patient load.

**Specialty Centers at Franklin Woods:** While not a regional referral center like JCMC, Franklin Woods offers a range of specialty services. These include orthopedics, general surgery, and cardiology. The hospital also has a dedicated women's center.

**Telehealth Availability at Franklin Woods:** Franklin Woods also participates in Ballad Health's telehealth initiatives. Patients can access virtual visits and remote monitoring programs through the hospital. The specific services offered may vary, so it is advisable to inquire directly with Franklin Woods about available telehealth options.

**Comparing the Two: JCMC vs. Franklin Woods**

The choice between JCMC and Franklin Woods depends on individual needs and circumstances. JCMC, as a Level I Trauma Center and regional referral center, is the preferred choice for severe injuries, complex illnesses, and specialized procedures. However, the longer ER wait times should be considered. Franklin Woods, with its higher CMS star rating and potentially shorter ER wait times, may be a better option for less acute conditions and for those seeking a more community-focused healthcare experience.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Considerations**

While JCMC and Franklin Woods are the primary options for residents of 37643, it is important to consider other factors when evaluating healthcare options.

**Outpatient Services:** Ballad Health offers a network of outpatient clinics and facilities throughout the region. These facilities provide a range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, diagnostic imaging, and physical therapy. Patients can often access these services more conveniently than visiting the main hospitals.

**Physician Networks:** The quality of care is heavily influenced by the quality of the physicians. Researching the credentials and experience of individual physicians is crucial. Ballad Health has a directory of physicians available on its website, allowing patients to find providers who meet their specific needs.

**Patient Experience:** Patient experience is a critical component of overall healthcare quality. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into patient perceptions of care. Patients should review these surveys and read patient reviews to gain a better understanding of the experiences of others.

**Access to Care:** Access to care is a major factor. Consider the location of hospitals and clinics, transportation options, and insurance coverage. Patients with limited mobility or transportation challenges may find it difficult to access care at the larger hospitals.

**Financial Considerations:** Healthcare costs can be a significant burden. Patients should understand their insurance coverage, including deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums. They should also inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs if they are unable to afford the cost of care.

**The Role of Telehealth in the Future**

Telehealth is rapidly evolving and will continue to play an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery. As technology advances, telehealth services will likely become more sophisticated and accessible. Patients should stay informed about the telehealth options available in their area and consider utilizing these services for appropriate medical needs.

**Overall Health Score Summary for Hospitals Near 37643**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 37643 is nuanced. JCMC, as a Level I Trauma Center, offers comprehensive care for complex cases but has longer ER wait times. Franklin Woods provides a potentially better patient experience, shorter ER wait times, and a higher CMS star rating. Both hospitals are part of the Ballad Health system, which is investing in telehealth. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, the specific services offered by each hospital, and the recommendations of their physicians when making healthcare decisions. Researching individual physicians, understanding insurance coverage, and considering patient experience are all critical steps in navigating the healthcare landscape. The evolving role of telehealth offers opportunities for improved access and convenience. Ultimately, the "best" hospital is the one that best meets the individual patient's needs.