37912, Knoxville, Tennessee Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 37912, Knoxville, Tennessee is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near 37912 - A Deep Dive

This review analyzes the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 37912 (Knoxville, Tennessee), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and overall health outcomes. The assessment incorporates data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available resources to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for each facility. This score considers factors like patient experience, clinical outcomes, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC): The Flagship**

UTMC, located at 1924 Alcoa Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920, serves as a regional referral center and is often considered the flagship hospital in the area. UTMC is a Level I Trauma Center, indicating its capacity to handle the most severe injuries and illnesses. Its CMS star rating is currently a 3-star rating, reflecting a mixed performance across various quality metrics.

UTMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. The Thompson Cancer Survival Center provides advanced cancer treatment options, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. The hospital also houses a dedicated heart and vascular institute, offering complex cardiac procedures and treatments. The UT Center for Advanced Medicine provides specialized care in areas like neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery.

Patient experience at UTMC, as measured by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, reveals areas for improvement. While the hospital generally scores well on patient safety indicators, patient satisfaction scores, particularly regarding communication with doctors and nurses, are often below national averages.

ER wait times at UTMC fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Publicly available data suggests average wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, particularly during peak hours. The hospital’s emergency department is equipped to handle a high volume of patients, but wait times can be a significant factor in patient experience.

UTMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care and behavioral health. Telehealth services are particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The hospital continues to invest in technology to enhance its telehealth offerings.

**Parkwest Medical Center: A Focus on Patient Experience**

Parkwest Medical Center, located at 9352 Park West Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37923, is another major hospital in the 37912 vicinity. Parkwest is a 4-star rated hospital by CMS. Parkwest emphasizes patient-centered care and consistently scores well on patient satisfaction surveys.

Parkwest houses a comprehensive cardiology program, including advanced cardiac catheterization labs and open-heart surgery capabilities. The hospital’s orthopedic services are also highly regarded, with a focus on joint replacement and sports medicine. The Patricia Neal Rehabilitation Center, located within Parkwest, provides specialized rehabilitation services for patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, and other neurological conditions.

Parkwest has demonstrated a commitment to improving patient experience. The hospital consistently scores above the national average on HCAHPS surveys, particularly in areas like communication with nurses and doctors, responsiveness of hospital staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment.

ER wait times at Parkwest are generally shorter than those at UTMC, often averaging around 30-45 minutes. The hospital’s emergency department is well-equipped and staffed to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

Parkwest has integrated telehealth services into its care delivery model. They offer virtual visits for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists. Telehealth is used to improve access to care for patients in remote locations and those with mobility challenges.

**Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center: A Downtown Presence**

Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, located at 1901 W Clinch Ave, Knoxville, TN 37916, provides healthcare services in the downtown area. Fort Sanders is a 3-star rated hospital by CMS.

Fort Sanders is known for its comprehensive women's services, including obstetrics and gynecology, and a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The hospital also houses a comprehensive cancer center and a dedicated heart institute.

Patient satisfaction scores at Fort Sanders are generally in line with the national average. The hospital is actively working to improve patient experience through various initiatives, including enhanced communication and patient education programs.

ER wait times at Fort Sanders can vary, but are often comparable to those at UTMC. The hospital’s emergency department is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies and offers specialized services, such as a chest pain center.

Fort Sanders has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for select specialties. They are actively exploring new telehealth applications to improve patient access and convenience.

**Methodology and Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on publicly available data and qualitative analysis. CMS star ratings provide a valuable starting point, but they do not capture the full complexity of hospital quality. Other factors considered include:

* **Patient Experience:** HCAHPS scores, patient reviews, and hospital-specific initiatives.
* **Clinical Outcomes:** Mortality rates, readmission rates, and complication rates.
* **ER Wait Times:** Average wait times, staffing levels, and emergency department capacity.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized centers, advanced technologies, and expert physicians.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Availability of virtual visits, remote monitoring programs, and digital health tools.
* **Accessibility:** Location, transportation options, and insurance acceptance.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

Several other hospitals and healthcare facilities serve the 37912 area, including:

* **East Tennessee Children's Hospital:** Specializes in pediatric care, offering a wide range of services for children.
* **Blount Memorial Hospital:** Located in nearby Maryville, TN, provides comprehensive medical services.
* **Covenant Health facilities:** Several outpatient clinics and specialized centers are affiliated with Covenant Health.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The hospitals near 37912 offer a range of healthcare options. UTMC, as the flagship, provides comprehensive services and advanced specialty care, but with some areas for improvement in patient satisfaction. Parkwest Medical Center stands out for its focus on patient experience and strong performance in patient satisfaction surveys. Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center offers a downtown presence with comprehensive women's services.

When choosing a hospital, patients should consider their individual healthcare needs, preferences, and priorities. Researching specific specialties, reviewing patient reviews, and considering ER wait times are essential steps in making an informed decision. The telehealth options offered by these hospitals provide added convenience and access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The healthcare landscape in and around 37912 is dynamic, with ongoing investments in technology and patient-centered care, which will continue to shape the "Overall Health Score" of these facilities.