24217, Bee, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24217, Bee, Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24217

Finding the right hospital can be a daunting task. This review provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare options near ZIP code 24217, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on various factors, including quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. This information aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

ZIP code 24217, encompassing the town of Abingdon, Virginia, is located in a region with a blend of rural and suburban healthcare access. The primary hospital serving this area is **Johnston Memorial Hospital (JMH)**, a facility of Ballad Health. This review will focus on JMH as the primary point of reference, along with a consideration of nearby options that residents may access.

**Johnston Memorial Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Johnston Memorial Hospital (JMH) is the flagship hospital for the area. JMH is a 116-bed facility. As of the latest available data, JMH holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it provides a baseline for comparison.

**Emergency Room Dynamics:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for many patients. Data suggests that average ER wait times at JMH fluctuate. According to recent reports, the median wait time to see a provider in the ER is around 30 minutes. However, wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. It is advisable to call ahead or check online for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Services and Centers of Excellence:**

JMH offers a range of specialized services. The hospital features a comprehensive **cardiology program**, including diagnostic testing and interventional procedures. It also has a dedicated **orthopedic center**, providing services for joint replacements, sports injuries, and other musculoskeletal conditions. JMH houses a **cancer center**, offering radiation oncology and chemotherapy services. The hospital also has a **women's health center**, providing obstetrics, gynecology, and other women's health services.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. JMH has embraced telehealth to some extent, offering virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring services. The hospital's telehealth capabilities are expanding, and patients are encouraged to inquire about available virtual care options. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Comparing to Regional Alternatives:**

While JMH is the primary hospital in the area, residents may also consider hospitals in nearby cities like Bristol and Kingsport, Tennessee, which are within a reasonable driving distance. These hospitals may offer different specializations or services that could be beneficial to some patients.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (Ballad Health):** Located in Bristol, TN, Bristol Regional Medical Center is another Ballad Health facility. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating. It is a larger hospital with more beds and a wider range of specialized services. The hospital is a Level II Trauma Center. ER wait times are comparable to JMH, with a median wait time to see a provider around 30 minutes. Bristol Regional Medical Center offers a wider range of specialty services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a comprehensive cancer center.

**Holston Valley Medical Center (Ballad Health):** Located in Kingsport, TN, Holston Valley Medical Center is another Ballad Health facility. It is a larger hospital with more beds and a wider range of specialized services. The hospital is a Level I Trauma Center. ER wait times are comparable to JMH, with a median wait time to see a provider around 30 minutes. Holston Valley Medical Center offers a wider range of specialty services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a comprehensive cancer center.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

**Johnston Memorial Hospital:** JMH serves as a vital healthcare provider for the Abingdon area. Its 3-star CMS rating indicates a satisfactory level of quality, with room for improvement. ER wait times are generally within an acceptable range. The hospital's specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer care, are valuable assets to the community. The growing telehealth initiatives are a positive step towards expanding access to care.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center:** Bristol Regional Medical Center is a strong alternative, particularly for patients needing more specialized care. Its larger size and wider range of services make it a good option for complex medical needs. However, the need to travel across state lines must be considered.

**Holston Valley Medical Center:** Holston Valley Medical Center is another strong alternative, particularly for patients needing more specialized care. Its larger size and wider range of services make it a good option for complex medical needs. However, the need to travel across state lines must be considered.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

When selecting a hospital, individuals should consider the following factors:

* **Specific Medical Needs:** Does the hospital offer the specialized services required for the patient's condition?
* **Physician Preferences:** Does the patient have a preferred physician who practices at a particular hospital?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept the patient's insurance plan?
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** How far is the hospital from the patient's home, and how easy is it to access?
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** What are other patients saying about their experiences at the hospital?
* **CMS Star Ratings and Quality Metrics:** What is the hospital's performance on quality measures?
* **ER Wait Times:** How long are patients typically waiting to be seen in the ER?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services for convenient access to care?

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the 24217 ZIP code, Johnston Memorial Hospital is the primary healthcare provider, offering a range of essential services. While JMH holds a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a satisfactory level of care, patients with more complex needs may consider the regional alternatives, such as Bristol Regional Medical Center and Holston Valley Medical Center, which offer a broader range of specialized services. When making a decision, patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. It's also important to stay informed about the latest developments in healthcare and to consult with a physician to determine the best course of action.