37665, Kingsport, Tennessee Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 37665, Kingsport, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Johnson City, TN (ZIP Code 37665)

The search for quality healthcare is a constant, and the need for informed decisions is paramount. This review delves into the landscape of hospitals and healthcare options near Johnson City, Tennessee (ZIP code 37665), providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment based on various factors, from CMS star ratings to ER wait times and telehealth availability. This is not a ranking, but a comprehensive overview to aid in navigating the local healthcare ecosystem.

**The Big Players: Johnson City Medical Center and Franklin Woods Community Hospital**

The dominant players in the region are Ballad Health's Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC) and Franklin Woods Community Hospital, also part of the Ballad Health system. These two facilities are the cornerstones of healthcare access for residents in and around the 37665 ZIP code.

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

Johnson City Medical Center, a large tertiary care center, is the flagship hospital for Ballad Health in the region. JCMC is a major referral center, offering a wide range of services, including advanced cardiac care, comprehensive cancer treatment, and specialized surgical procedures. The hospital's size and scope translate to a significant presence in the community.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** JCMC's performance, as measured by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provides a crucial benchmark. CMS star ratings, based on publicly reported data, reflect a hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. As of the most recent data available, JCMC's CMS star rating is a critical data point for consumers to consider, reflecting the hospital's overall performance. It's essential to check the most up-to-date CMS data for the most accurate assessment.

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. JCMC's ER wait times fluctuate depending on patient volume and the severity of cases. Patients can often find real-time wait time information online or through Ballad Health's website, allowing for informed decisions about seeking care.

**Specialty Centers:** JCMC houses several specialty centers, including a heart institute, a cancer center, and a comprehensive stroke center. These centers offer specialized expertise and resources for complex medical conditions. The presence of these centers reduces the need for patients to travel outside the region for advanced care.

**Telehealth Integration:** Ballad Health has expanded its telehealth capabilities, particularly important for residents in rural areas. Telehealth services at JCMC can include virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to behavioral health services. The availability of telehealth increases access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

**Franklin Woods Community Hospital: Community Focus**

Franklin Woods Community Hospital, located in nearby Johnson City, offers a more community-focused approach. While smaller than JCMC, it provides a range of services, including primary care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** Franklin Woods' CMS star rating, like JCMC's, is a key indicator of its performance. The CMS rating provides a comparative perspective on the hospital's quality metrics. Checking the latest CMS data is essential for a current assessment.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Franklin Woods are generally shorter than at JCMC, which can be a significant advantage for patients seeking immediate care.

**Specialty Centers:** Franklin Woods offers a more limited range of specialty services compared to JCMC, but it provides essential care for common medical needs.

**Telehealth Integration:** Franklin Woods also participates in Ballad Health's telehealth initiatives, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This further enhances access to care for residents in the surrounding communities.

**Other Healthcare Providers in the Area**

Beyond the two main hospitals, several other healthcare providers contribute to the overall healthcare landscape near the 37665 ZIP code. These include:

**Mountain Home VA Medical Center:** The Mountain Home VA Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services to veterans in the region. It offers a wide array of services, including primary care, specialty care, and mental health services.

**Specialty Clinics and Outpatient Centers:** Numerous specialty clinics and outpatient centers offer specialized care in areas such as cardiology, dermatology, and physical therapy. These centers provide convenient access to specialized medical expertise.

**Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in and around the 37665 ZIP code, providing immediate care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. These centers offer an alternative to the ER for less serious medical needs.

**Physician Practices:** A diverse network of physician practices, including primary care physicians and specialists, provides ongoing medical care to residents. These practices play a vital role in preventive care, chronic disease management, and overall health maintenance.

**Assessing the Healthcare Ecosystem: Factors to Consider**

Evaluating the healthcare options requires considering several factors:

**Access to Care:** The proximity of hospitals, clinics, and physician practices is crucial. The 37665 ZIP code benefits from a relatively well-distributed healthcare network.

**Quality of Care:** CMS star ratings, patient reviews, and physician credentials are important indicators of quality. Researching these factors is essential.

**Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs can vary significantly. Understanding insurance coverage, copays, and out-of-pocket expenses is vital.

**Patient Experience:** Factors such as wait times, communication with healthcare providers, and overall satisfaction are important. Patient reviews and surveys can provide insights into patient experiences.

**Telehealth Availability:** The increasing availability of telehealth services enhances access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

**Specific Needs:** Individuals with specific medical needs, such as those with chronic conditions or those requiring specialized care, should research the availability of relevant services.

**ER Wait Times: A Closer Look**

ER wait times can fluctuate significantly. Real-time wait time information is often available online or through hospital websites. Shorter wait times can be a significant advantage, especially in urgent situations. However, it's important to note that wait times are not the only factor to consider. The severity of the condition and the availability of specialized resources are also important.

**Telehealth: Expanding Healthcare Horizons**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. Telehealth offers several advantages, including:

* **Increased Access:** Telehealth expands access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility issues.
* **Convenience:** Telehealth eliminates the need for travel, saving time and effort.
* **Specialist Consultations:** Telehealth allows patients to consult with specialists remotely.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Telehealth enables remote monitoring of chronic conditions, improving patient management.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near the 37665 ZIP code offers a range of options. Johnson City Medical Center, as the flagship hospital, provides comprehensive services. Franklin Woods Community Hospital offers a community-focused approach. Numerous other healthcare providers, including the Mountain Home VA Medical Center, specialty clinics, urgent care centers, and physician practices, contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem.

To make informed decisions, individuals should consider factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and personal healthcare needs. Researching and comparing these factors will help individuals navigate the healthcare landscape and find the best healthcare options for their needs. This "Overall Health Score" review aims to provide a framework for understanding the local healthcare environment, but individual needs and preferences should always guide healthcare decisions. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, so it's crucial to seek the most up-to-date information from reliable sources.