24293, Wise, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24293, Wise, Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24293

The rugged terrain and close-knit communities surrounding ZIP code 24293, encompassing the town of Wise, Virginia, present unique healthcare challenges. Access to specialized medical care can be limited, making the quality and accessibility of local hospitals paramount. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the primary hospitals serving this region, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and overall patient experience. The goal is to provide residents with a comprehensive understanding of their healthcare options.

**Norton Community Hospital (Norton, VA): A Regional Hub**

Norton Community Hospital (NCH), located in Norton, VA, is the closest major hospital to the 24293 ZIP code. It serves as a critical regional hub, providing a range of services to the surrounding communities. NCH is a member of Ballad Health, a large healthcare system operating throughout Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** NCH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's important to delve deeper into specific areas to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Emergency Room Services:** Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for residents. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to monitor the hospital's performance data. NCH's ER typically handles a significant volume of patients, given its regional role.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** NCH offers a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. The hospital also has a labor and delivery unit, providing obstetric care for expectant mothers. The availability of these services within the immediate vicinity is a significant advantage for residents, reducing the need for travel to larger medical centers.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** Ballad Health, the parent organization, has invested in telehealth capabilities. This allows patients to access virtual consultations with specialists, particularly beneficial for those in rural areas with limited access to specialized care. The extent of telehealth services available at NCH, including the specialties covered and the ease of access, is a key consideration.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the overall experience. Factors like communication with doctors and nurses, cleanliness of the facilities, and responsiveness to patient needs contribute to the patient experience score. Reviewing patient feedback and publicly available surveys can help potential patients gauge the hospital's patient-centeredness.

**Lee County Community Hospital (Pennington Gap, VA): A Smaller Community Option**

Lee County Community Hospital (LCCH), located in Pennington Gap, VA, offers another healthcare option for residents near 24293. As a smaller community hospital, LCCH provides essential services with a focus on personalized care.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** LCCH's CMS star rating should be considered. The rating provides a benchmark for quality and performance. The hospital's performance in areas like infection control, patient safety, and readmission rates is important.

**Emergency Room Services:** ER wait times at LCCH are likely to be shorter compared to larger regional hospitals like NCH. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking immediate care.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** LCCH offers core services, including primary care, emergency care, and diagnostic imaging. The availability of specialized services may be more limited compared to NCH, potentially requiring patients to travel for certain treatments or consultations.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** The hospital's telehealth offerings should be assessed. The availability of virtual consultations can enhance access to specialists and improve patient convenience.

**Patient Experience:** Patient feedback is crucial. The hospital's commitment to patient satisfaction, as reflected in surveys and online reviews, should be evaluated.

**Other Considerations for the Region:**

**Distance and Travel Time:** The geographic location of the hospitals is a significant factor. The distance and travel time to each hospital should be considered, particularly in emergency situations.

**Access to Specialists:** The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is crucial. The need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care should be factored into the overall assessment.

**Community Health Needs:** The specific health needs of the population in the 24293 area, including prevalent chronic diseases and age demographics, should be considered.

**Ballad Health System:** The affiliation with Ballad Health provides access to a broader network of resources and specialists. The coordination of care between hospitals within the Ballad Health system can be a significant advantage for patients.

**Specific Hospital Metrics to Consider:**

**Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs):** The rate of HAIs, such as surgical site infections and bloodstream infections, is a critical indicator of patient safety. Data on HAIs is publicly available and should be reviewed.

**Readmission Rates:** High readmission rates can indicate issues with the quality of care or post-discharge support. Analyzing readmission rates for specific conditions can provide insights into the effectiveness of treatment.

**Patient Safety Indicators:** The hospital's performance on patient safety indicators, such as medication errors and pressure ulcers, should be assessed.

**Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare is a significant concern for patients. Comparing the cost of services at different hospitals, while considering insurance coverage, is important.

**Future Developments:**

**Expansion and Improvements:** Any planned expansions or improvements at the hospitals, such as new facilities or equipment upgrades, should be considered.

**Technological Advancements:** The adoption of new technologies, such as electronic health records and advanced imaging equipment, can improve the quality and efficiency of care.

**Community Partnerships:** The hospital's involvement in community health initiatives, such as health screenings and education programs, reflects its commitment to the well-being of the population.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for hospitals near 24293 is a complex assessment. Norton Community Hospital, as the larger regional hub, provides a wider range of services, but patients should carefully consider its CMS star rating, ER wait times, and patient experience. Lee County Community Hospital offers a more intimate setting with potentially shorter ER wait times, but its specialty services may be more limited. The ultimate choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the specific medical condition. Residents should research each hospital thoroughly, considering the factors outlined in this review, to make informed decisions about their healthcare. The ongoing evolution of healthcare delivery, including telehealth and community outreach, will continue to shape the landscape of healthcare options available to the communities surrounding ZIP code 24293.