24258, Hiltons, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24258, Hiltons, Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24258

The pursuit of optimal healthcare often begins with proximity. For residents of ZIP code 24258, which encompasses the town of Lebanon, Virginia, access to quality medical care is a critical consideration. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals in the immediate and surrounding areas, focusing on factors that contribute to comprehensive patient well-being. This analysis considers CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of Lebanon, VA, offers a limited number of hospitals. The primary healthcare provider serving the area is **Russell County Medical Center (RCMC)**, located directly within the town. RCMC is a critical access hospital, designed to serve rural communities. Its size and scope, however, are inherently different from larger, regional facilities. This difference is a key consideration when evaluating the overall health score.

**Russell County Medical Center: A Closer Look:**

Russell County Medical Center, while being a vital component of the community, has a mixed record. As a critical access hospital, RCMC is subject to different CMS standards than larger facilities. Unfortunately, up-to-date CMS star ratings for RCMC are unavailable at the time of this review. However, the hospital's focus remains on providing essential services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services.

**Emergency Room Dynamics:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and responsiveness. Data on ER wait times at RCMC can fluctuate. Patients should expect to experience wait times that are typical for a smaller, rural hospital. However, this data is subject to change, and it is always advisable to contact the hospital directly or check online resources for the most current information.

**Specialized Services at RCMC:**

RCMC offers a range of services tailored to the needs of the local population. These include general surgery, internal medicine, and diagnostic imaging. However, the scope of specialized services is limited compared to larger regional hospitals. Patients requiring highly specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or complex cancer treatments, may need to seek services elsewhere.

**Telehealth Integration at RCMC:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. RCMC offers telehealth options to extend its reach and improve access to care. The availability of telehealth services can vary, so patients should contact the hospital for specific details. Telehealth can be particularly useful for follow-up appointments, specialist consultations, and mental health services.

**Expanding the Scope: Regional Flagship Hospitals:**

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of available healthcare options, it is necessary to consider hospitals in the surrounding areas. The nearest regional hub for advanced medical care is **Bristol Regional Medical Center (BRMC)**, located in Bristol, Tennessee, approximately 30 miles from Lebanon. This hospital, as part of Ballad Health, is a significantly larger facility with a broader range of services.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center: A Detailed Assessment:**

Bristol Regional Medical Center has a more comprehensive service offering than RCMC. The hospital's CMS star rating is unavailable at the time of this review, but it is a level II trauma center, indicating its capacity to handle a wide range of emergency situations. BRMC is equipped to provide advanced care in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology.

**BRMC: Emergency Room and Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times at BRMC are generally longer than those at RCMC, reflecting the higher volume of patients. However, BRMC has a larger staff and more resources to manage patient flow. It is advisable to check online resources or call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date wait time information.

**Specialized Services at BRMC:**

BRMC boasts a broader range of specialized services than RCMC. These include a comprehensive cardiac program, a dedicated cancer center, and advanced surgical capabilities. BRMC also offers specialized services for women's health, pediatrics, and behavioral health.

**Telehealth at BRMC:**

BRMC, as part of Ballad Health, has a robust telehealth program. This includes virtual visits with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and access to a wide array of telehealth resources. This is a significant advantage for patients in the Lebanon area, providing access to specialists without the need for extensive travel.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Urgent Care:**

In addition to the primary hospitals, residents of 24258 may also consider urgent care clinics and smaller facilities. These options are generally suitable for non-life-threatening conditions and offer convenient access to care. The availability of these facilities may vary, and it is essential to verify their operating hours and services.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The overall health score for residents of 24258 reflects the availability of healthcare options, taking into account the limitations of a rural environment.

* **Russell County Medical Center:** Serves as a critical access hospital, providing essential services and emergency care. However, its limited scope of specialized services necessitates consideration of regional options for complex medical needs.
* **Bristol Regional Medical Center:** Offers a significantly broader range of services, including advanced specialty care and a robust telehealth program. This hospital is a crucial resource for residents requiring more specialized treatment.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and minor illnesses/injuries:** Russell County Medical Center is a convenient option.
* **For specialized care and complex medical conditions:** Bristol Regional Medical Center is the preferred choice, given its broader capabilities.
* **For emergency situations:** Assess the severity of the situation. For life-threatening emergencies, consider the closest and most appropriate facility, which may be BRMC depending on the nature of the emergency.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Leverage the telehealth programs offered by BRMC and other providers to access specialist consultations and remote monitoring services.
* **Stay informed:** Regularly check online resources and contact hospitals directly for the most up-to-date information on wait times, services, and telehealth availability.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 24258 presents a balance of local accessibility and regional expertise. While Russell County Medical Center provides essential services, Bristol Regional Medical Center offers a more comprehensive range of care, especially for complex medical needs. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and leverage the available resources, including telehealth options, to ensure they receive the most appropriate and timely care. This "Overall Health Score" analysis underscores the importance of informed decision-making when navigating the healthcare system in this rural region.