38569, Lancaster, Tennessee Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 38569, Lancaster, Tennessee is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Monterey, TN (ZIP Code 38569)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex labyrinth. For residents of Monterey, Tennessee (ZIP code 38569), understanding the quality and accessibility of local medical facilities is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the rural nature of the area, options are limited, but the quality of available care is still assessed.

**The Landscape of Care: Limited but Focused**

Monterey, nestled in the heart of Tennessee, doesn't boast a plethora of hospital choices. The surrounding region, however, offers a few key facilities that serve the healthcare needs of the community. Proximity and ease of access are crucial considerations, particularly in emergencies. This review will focus on the most relevant hospitals, assessing their strengths and weaknesses.

**Flagship Hospital: Cookeville Regional Medical Center (Cookeville, TN)**

Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC), located approximately 20 minutes from Monterey, stands as the dominant healthcare provider for the region. It is a major regional referral center, providing a wide array of services. CRMC is a 269-bed facility, offering comprehensive medical care. It is the closest and most comprehensive hospital to Monterey.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:**

CRMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it indicates an average performance in several key areas. The CMS rating considers factors like mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care. CRMC's performance in these areas is generally consistent with other hospitals of similar size and scope.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical indicator of a hospital's responsiveness. Data suggests that CRMC's ER wait times are generally in line with the national average. Patients can typically expect to be seen by a healthcare professional within a reasonable timeframe. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

CRMC boasts a range of specialized services, including a comprehensive cardiology program, a cancer center, a women's health center, and a robust surgical department. The hospital also offers advanced imaging services, including MRI and CT scans. The presence of these specialized centers means that residents of Monterey can access a wide range of medical expertise without having to travel long distances.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

CRMC has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for residents of rural areas, as it reduces the need for travel and increases access to specialists. Telehealth services can include virtual appointments with physicians, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and mental health counseling. The availability of telehealth is a significant advantage for the community.

**Overall Score for CRMC: Good.** CRMC provides a solid foundation of care for the residents of Monterey. While the CMS rating is not exceptional, the hospital's comprehensive services, reasonable ER wait times, and embrace of telehealth make it a valuable resource.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Options**

Beyond CRMC, the region offers other healthcare options, although they may be less comprehensive. These facilities often focus on specific services or provide outpatient care.

**Cumberland Medical Center (Crossville, TN):**

Located approximately 45 minutes from Monterey, Cumberland Medical Center is another option for residents. It is a 122-bed facility.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:**

Cumberland Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times are generally similar to CRMC.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Cumberland Medical Center offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Cumberland Medical Center has telehealth capabilities.

**Overall Score for Cumberland Medical Center: Fair.** Cumberland Medical Center provides an alternative option for care, but it is further away and offers a smaller scope of services than CRMC.

**Outpatient Clinics and Primary Care:**

Numerous outpatient clinics and primary care physician offices are available in the Monterey area and the surrounding towns. These facilities provide essential services, including routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. They serve as the first point of contact for many patients and play a crucial role in preventative care. The quality of these clinics can vary, so it is important to research and choose a provider that meets individual needs.

**The Impact of Rural Healthcare Challenges:**

The healthcare landscape in rural areas like Monterey faces unique challenges. These include a shortage of healthcare professionals, limited access to specialized services, and the difficulties of attracting and retaining qualified staff. These challenges can impact the quality of care and the accessibility of services. The local hospitals and clinics are actively working to address these challenges through recruitment efforts, partnerships with larger medical centers, and the expansion of telehealth services.

**Telehealth: A Growing Force in Rural Healthcare:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers in rural areas. It allows patients to access medical consultations, remote monitoring, and mental health services from the comfort of their homes. Telehealth reduces the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier for residents of Monterey. The expansion of telehealth services is expected to continue in the coming years, improving access to care and enhancing the overall health of the community.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. While CMS star ratings and ER wait times provide valuable insights, patient feedback offers a different perspective. Online reviews and surveys can provide information about the quality of care, the communication skills of healthcare providers, and the overall patient experience. It is important to consider patient feedback when evaluating healthcare options.

**Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs are a major concern for many individuals. The cost of care can vary significantly depending on the type of service, the hospital, and the patient's insurance coverage. It is essential to understand the costs associated with healthcare services and to explore options for financial assistance if needed. Hospitals often have financial counselors who can help patients navigate the complexities of healthcare billing and insurance.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Monterey**

For residents of Monterey, TN (ZIP code 38569), the primary healthcare option is Cookeville Regional Medical Center, providing a comprehensive range of services. The hospital’s CMS rating, ER wait times, and specialty centers are generally good. While options are limited, the availability of telehealth services enhances access to care. Residents should consider their individual needs, research available providers, and proactively engage in their healthcare to ensure the best possible outcomes. While the healthcare landscape in this rural area presents challenges, the local facilities are working to provide quality care and improve access to services for the community. The "Overall Health Score" for the area is **Good**, with CRMC serving as a solid anchor for healthcare needs.