24250, Fort Blackmore, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24250, Fort Blackmore, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24250

The region surrounding ZIP Code 24250, encompassing the communities of Lebanon, Grundy, and surrounding areas in southwestern Virginia, presents a landscape of healthcare access and quality that demands careful consideration. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals in this area requires a deep dive into factors ranging from CMS star ratings to emergency room wait times, specialty offerings, and the availability of telehealth services. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Flagship: Johnston Memorial Hospital**

Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, Virginia, stands as a prominent healthcare provider in the region. As a member of Ballad Health, it serves a broad patient population. Its performance, as reflected in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, is a critical indicator. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, the hospital's score offers a snapshot of its overall performance across various quality measures. Patients should consult the most recent CMS data for the most up-to-date assessment.

Johnston Memorial’s emergency department (ED) is a crucial point of access for urgent medical needs. Assessing ED wait times is essential. Publicly available data, often found on hospital websites or through platforms like ProPublica’s Hospital Compare, can provide insights into the average time patients spend in the ED before being seen by a healthcare professional. Shorter wait times generally indicate more efficient operations and potentially better patient outcomes.

**Specialty Services at Johnston Memorial**

Beyond general medical care, Johnston Memorial offers a range of specialty services. This includes cardiology, with access to diagnostic testing and treatment options for heart conditions. Oncology services, including cancer diagnosis and treatment, are also typically available. The hospital's surgical capabilities, encompassing a variety of procedures, are another key aspect of its service offerings. The availability of specialized care significantly impacts the overall health score, as it reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.

**Telehealth Integration**

In the modern healthcare landscape, telehealth plays an increasingly important role. Johnston Memorial, as part of Ballad Health, likely offers some telehealth services. These may include virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and access to mental health services. The extent of telehealth integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients, contributes to the overall health score. Telehealth can be especially beneficial in rural areas, expanding access to care and reducing the burden of travel.

**Other Healthcare Providers in the Region**

While Johnston Memorial is a major player, other healthcare providers contribute to the overall health landscape near 24250. Smaller hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers provide additional options for patients.

**Dickenson County Medical Center**

Dickenson County Medical Center in Clintwood, Virginia, is another hospital serving the region. Assessing its performance, similar to Johnston Memorial, involves reviewing CMS star ratings, ED wait times, and the availability of specialty services. The hospital's role in serving a more rural population is significant, and its ability to provide timely and effective care is crucial.

**Holston Valley Medical Center**

Holston Valley Medical Center, also part of Ballad Health, is located in Kingsport, Tennessee, but is within a reasonable driving distance for some residents near 24250. Its offerings can be a significant factor in healthcare access. Its CMS star ratings, ED wait times, and the scope of its specialty services should be considered. The hospital's proximity to the Virginia border means it can serve as a convenient option for some patients.

**Clinics and Urgent Care Centers**

The availability of clinics and urgent care centers provides alternative points of access for non-emergency medical needs. These facilities often offer shorter wait times than hospital EDs and can address a range of common illnesses and injuries. Assessing the number, location, and services offered by these clinics is important.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a key indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Long wait times can lead to poorer outcomes, particularly for patients with time-sensitive conditions. Data on ED wait times is often publicly available, and patients should actively seek this information when choosing a healthcare provider. Comparing wait times across different hospitals in the area can help patients make informed decisions.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The presence of specialized centers and services significantly impacts the overall health score. This includes cardiology centers, oncology departments, surgical suites, and other specialized units. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance reduces the need for patients to travel to larger cities for treatment, improving access to care and potentially improving outcomes.

**Telehealth Adoption and Impact**

The adoption of telehealth services is a growing trend in healthcare. Telehealth offers a range of benefits, including increased access to care, reduced travel burdens, and improved management of chronic conditions. Assessing the telehealth offerings of hospitals and clinics in the area, including the types of services available and the ease of access for patients, is crucial.

**Mental Health Services**

Mental health services are an essential component of overall healthcare. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is important. The integration of mental health services within the broader healthcare system, including access to inpatient and outpatient care, contributes to the overall health score.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility to healthcare services is a significant factor, particularly in rural areas. Assessing the availability of public transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the presence of transportation assistance programs can help determine the ease with which patients can access care.

**Community Health Needs Assessments**

Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs), conducted by hospitals and health systems, provide valuable insights into the health needs of the community. Reviewing CHNAs can help identify areas of concern, such as high rates of chronic diseases or limited access to care. This information can inform decisions about healthcare choices and help patients understand the specific challenges facing the region.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 24250 is a composite measure, influenced by a variety of factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Reflecting overall quality of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Indicating efficiency and access.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized care.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Expanding access and convenience.
* **Accessibility and Transportation:** Removing barriers to care.
* **Community Health Needs:** Addressing specific health challenges.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Gauging the patient experience.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Ensuring quality and safety standards.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP Code 24250 presents a mix of established hospitals, clinics, and telehealth options. Patients should proactively research their options, considering the factors outlined above. Consulting CMS star ratings, checking ED wait times, and understanding the available specialty services are essential steps in making informed healthcare decisions. The ongoing evolution of telehealth offers promising opportunities to improve access and quality of care in this region. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents can navigate the healthcare system and access the care they need.