23938, Dundas, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 23938, Dundas, Virginia is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23938 (Southside Virginia)

Finding the best hospital for your needs is a crucial decision, and the landscape near ZIP code 23938 (Farmville, Virginia, and surrounding areas) offers a few key options. This review provides an overall health score, factoring in various metrics, to help you navigate the healthcare choices available in this region. We’ll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other critical factors to paint a comprehensive picture.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Considerations**

The primary hospitals serving the 23938 area are Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville and VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital in South Hill. These facilities are the cornerstones of healthcare access for residents. While larger, more specialized hospitals are located further afield in Richmond and other metropolitan areas, the local hospitals are vital for primary care, emergency services, and a range of specialized treatments.

**Centra Southside Community Hospital (Farmville, VA)**

Centra Southside Community Hospital (CSSH) is the closest major hospital to the 23938 ZIP code, making it the primary choice for many residents. CSSH is a critical access hospital, a designation that reflects its importance in providing care to a rural community.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings are a widely used indicator of hospital quality. CSSH, as of the latest available data, does not have a star rating assigned by CMS. This can be due to a variety of factors, including hospital size and the types of services offered. It's essential to understand that the absence of a star rating doesn't automatically equate to poor quality, but it does mean that the hospital's performance data is not publicly available in this format.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital performance. CSSH's ER wait times, as reported on public databases, can fluctuate. It's essential to check the most up-to-date data available through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website or other public reporting platforms. Average wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** CSSH offers a range of services, including a cardiac rehabilitation program, a wound care center, and a variety of surgical procedures. The hospital also provides services in areas such as obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and general medicine.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. CSSH likely offers telehealth services, potentially including virtual appointments with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and access to mental health professionals. The specific telehealth offerings should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Overall Health Score for CSSH:** Considering its role as a critical access hospital and the limited publicly available data, CSSH receives a moderate overall health score. It is a vital resource for the community, offering essential services. However, the absence of a CMS star rating and the potential for fluctuating ER wait times warrant careful consideration.

**VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (South Hill, VA)**

VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) is another significant healthcare provider within a reasonable distance of the 23938 ZIP code. As part of the VCU Health System, it benefits from the resources and expertise of a larger network.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** CMH currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates an average level of quality compared to other hospitals nationwide. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Performance:** CMH's ER wait times are a key factor in assessing its performance. Publicly available data, such as that provided by CMS or other sources, can provide insights into the average wait times. It is important to check the most current data available.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** CMH offers a broader range of specialized services than CSSH, including a comprehensive cancer center, cardiology services, and advanced surgical capabilities. As part of the VCU Health system, CMH can also leverage the expertise and resources of the larger network.

**Telehealth Availability:** CMH, as part of VCU Health, likely has a robust telehealth program. This may include virtual appointments with specialists, remote monitoring for chronic conditions, and access to a wide range of healthcare professionals through telehealth platforms.

**Overall Health Score for CMH:** CMH receives a good overall health score. The 3-star CMS rating, coupled with its broader range of services and its affiliation with the VCU Health system, makes it a strong option for residents in the 23938 area.

**Other Considerations: Accessing Specialized Care**

While CSSH and CMH are the primary hospitals serving the area, residents may need to travel for specialized care.

**VCU Medical Center (Richmond, VA):** Located approximately 80 miles east, VCU Medical Center is a major academic medical center. It offers a wide range of specialized services, including advanced cancer treatment, transplant services, and cutting-edge research. For complex medical needs, VCU Medical Center is an important resource.

**Chippenham Hospital (Richmond, VA):** Located in Richmond, Chippenham Hospital is another option. It is a large hospital with a strong reputation for cardiac care, stroke care, and other specialized services.

**Factors Influencing Your Choice:**

* **Severity of Illness:** For life-threatening emergencies, the closest hospital is generally the best option.
* **Specialized Needs:** If you require specialized care (e.g., cancer treatment, cardiac surgery), consider hospitals with those specific capabilities.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital you choose is within your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like hospital reputation, patient reviews, and the availability of specific amenities.
* **Transportation:** Factor in travel time and distance, especially if you live in a rural area.

**Telehealth's Role:**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Both CSSH and CMH likely offer telehealth services. These services can provide convenient access to specialists, mental health professionals, and primary care providers, reducing the need for travel and improving overall healthcare access.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the best hospital near 23938 requires careful consideration of your individual needs and circumstances. Centra Southside Community Hospital is a vital resource in Farmville, offering essential services. VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital, with its 3-star CMS rating and broader range of services, is another strong option. For specialized care, VCU Medical Center and Chippenham Hospital in Richmond are important resources.

By researching the specific services offered by each hospital, checking ER wait times, assessing CMS star ratings, and understanding the availability of telehealth options, you can make an informed decision about the best healthcare provider for you and your family. Remember to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.