24263, Jonesville, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24263, Jonesville, Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24263

The residents of ZIP code 24263, encompassing the town of Lebanon, Virginia, and surrounding areas, have a limited but critical choice when it comes to healthcare. Their primary options are rooted in a rural landscape, with access to specialized care often requiring travel. This review analyzes the available hospitals, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, to provide an overall health score assessment.

**The Cornerstone: Clinch Valley Health**

Clinch Valley Health (CVH), located in Richlands, Virginia, is the most prominent healthcare provider for the 24263 area. It serves as a critical access hospital, meaning it's designed to provide essential services to a rural population with limited options. As of the latest available data, CVH does not have a CMS star rating. This rating system, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience, is a key indicator of overall hospital quality. The absence of a star rating doesn't necessarily equate to poor care, but it does limit the ability to benchmark performance against other hospitals.

**Emergency Department Dynamics**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly in a rural setting where timely access to care can be life-saving. While specific, up-to-the-minute ER wait times fluctuate, publicly available data often indicates that wait times at CVH can be moderate, potentially reflecting the demands placed on a smaller facility. It's important for residents to understand that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of presenting conditions.

**Specialty Services at Clinch Valley Health**

Clinch Valley Health offers a range of essential services, including a 24-hour emergency department, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital also provides cardiology services, including cardiac catheterization. They also have a labor and delivery unit. While CVH is a comprehensive facility, its scope of specialized services is more limited than what is found in larger, urban hospitals. This is a common characteristic of rural hospitals that must balance providing a broad range of services with the need to manage resources effectively.

**Telehealth Integration at CVH**

Telehealth, or the delivery of healthcare services remotely using technology, is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas where access to specialists can be challenging. Clinch Valley Health has integrated telehealth to some degree, allowing patients to access specialists remotely. This can be particularly valuable for consultations with specialists in fields like cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. The extent of telehealth integration, including the number of specialties offered and the ease of access, is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health score.

**Beyond Lebanon: Options for Specialized Care**

Residents of 24263 often seek specialized care outside of the immediate vicinity. The closest major hospital systems are located in larger cities like Bristol, Virginia, and Johnson City, Tennessee. These facilities offer a wider range of specialized services and advanced medical technologies.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center**

Bristol Regional Medical Center (BRMC), part of Ballad Health, is a significant healthcare provider in the region. BRMC has a CMS star rating. While specific ratings fluctuate, it is important to note that BRMC has consistently strived to achieve higher ratings. This indicates a commitment to quality and patient safety.

**Emergency Department at Bristol Regional Medical Center**

ER wait times at BRMC can vary but are generally longer than those at CVH, reflecting the higher volume of patients. BRMC's emergency department is equipped to handle a wider range of medical emergencies and has a more extensive staff.

**Specialty Services at Bristol Regional Medical Center**

BRMC offers a comprehensive array of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. It has a dedicated heart and vascular institute, a cancer center, and a comprehensive stroke center. BRMC is also a Level II trauma center, equipped to handle severe injuries.

**Telehealth at Bristol Regional Medical Center**

BRMC has a robust telehealth program, providing access to specialists and remote monitoring services. Telehealth is used for a wide variety of specialties, including behavioral health, cardiology, and stroke care. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care for residents of rural areas.

**Holston Valley Medical Center**

Holston Valley Medical Center, also part of Ballad Health, is another option for residents of 24263. Holston Valley has a CMS star rating, demonstrating a commitment to quality.

**Emergency Department at Holston Valley Medical Center**

Holston Valley Medical Center's ER wait times are similar to those at BRMC, reflecting the higher patient volume.

**Specialty Services at Holston Valley Medical Center**

Holston Valley Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. The hospital has a Level I trauma center, which is the highest level of trauma care.

**Telehealth at Holston Valley Medical Center**

Holston Valley Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, providing access to specialists and remote monitoring services. Telehealth is used for a wide variety of specialties, including behavioral health, cardiology, and stroke care.

**The Importance of Access and Transportation**

The rural nature of the 24263 ZIP code necessitates consideration of access and transportation. While CVH is geographically closest, access to specialized care often requires travel to Bristol or Johnson City. This travel time can be a critical factor in emergencies. Public transportation options are limited in the area, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transport.

**Other Considerations: Community Health and Wellness**

Beyond hospital-based care, the overall health score is influenced by community health initiatives. The availability of primary care physicians, access to preventative care, and the prevalence of chronic diseases are all factors. The presence of community health centers, wellness programs, and public health initiatives can contribute to a higher overall health score.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 24263 is complex, reflecting the strengths and limitations of the available healthcare options.

* **Strengths:** Access to essential services at CVH, the presence of larger hospital systems with comprehensive services in Bristol and Johnson City, and the increasing integration of telehealth.
* **Weaknesses:** Limited specialty services at CVH, longer ER wait times at larger hospitals, the need for travel to access specialized care, and the challenges of rural access and transportation.
* **Recommendations:** Residents should familiarize themselves with the services offered by both CVH and the hospitals in Bristol and Johnson City. They should also understand their insurance coverage and the referral process for accessing specialized care. Telehealth should be explored as a way to improve access to specialists. Community health initiatives should be supported to promote preventative care and wellness.

**Conclusion**

The residents of 24263 have access to essential healthcare services at Clinch Valley Health. However, access to specialized care requires travel to larger hospitals in Bristol and Johnson City. The overall health score is dependent on a combination of factors, including the quality of care at local hospitals, the availability of specialized services, the integration of telehealth, and the challenges of rural access and transportation. The best approach is to proactively manage your health, understand the available resources, and seek care at the most appropriate facility for your needs.