24330, Fries, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24330, Fries, Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24330 (Marion, Virginia)

The residents of Marion, Virginia (ZIP code 24330) and surrounding areas have access to a healthcare landscape primarily defined by a few key players, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Evaluating the overall health score of these institutions requires a deep dive into factors ranging from patient safety and quality of care to accessibility and technological integration. This review focuses on the most prominent hospitals serving the region, offering a comprehensive assessment based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Dominant Player: Smyth County Community Hospital**

Smyth County Community Hospital (SCCH), located in Marion, Virginia, is the cornerstone of healthcare in the immediate vicinity. As a critical access hospital, SCCH plays a vital role in providing essential services to a rural population. Its CMS star rating, a widely recognized indicator of hospital quality, is a solid **three stars**. This rating reflects SCCH’s performance across various metrics, including patient experience, safety of care, and timely and effective care. While not reaching the highest echelon, this rating indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

SCCH's emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial factor for residents. Data suggests that ER wait times at SCCH are typically **moderate**, often fluctuating based on the time of day and overall patient volume. While specific, real-time wait times can be found on hospital websites and third-party platforms, the average wait time is a key consideration for residents needing immediate medical attention.

SCCH offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It also provides a labor and delivery unit, making it a comprehensive healthcare provider for the community. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology, including CT scans and MRIs, which are essential for accurate diagnoses.

Telehealth is another area where SCCH is making strides. The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with remote access to specialists and consultations. This is particularly important in a rural area where access to specialized care can be challenging. SCCH's telehealth initiatives are designed to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care for patients in need.

**Exploring Alternatives: Further Afield**

While SCCH is the primary provider, residents also have access to hospitals located further afield, offering specialized care and potentially shorter wait times for certain procedures.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (Christiansburg, VA):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Marion, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC) provides a broader range of specialized services. NRVMC is a larger facility with a **four-star** CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality. NRVMC's ER wait times are generally **comparable to or slightly shorter than** those at SCCH, depending on the time of day and patient volume.

NRVMC excels in several specialty areas, including cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery. The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center and offers advanced surgical procedures. NRVMC's broader range of services makes it a preferred choice for patients requiring specialized care that may not be available at SCCH.

Telehealth is also a significant component of NRVMC's offerings. The hospital provides telehealth consultations with specialists, expanding access to care for patients in rural areas.

**Mountain View Regional Hospital (Norton, VA):** Situated approximately an hour and a half from Marion, Mountain View Regional Hospital is another option for residents seeking healthcare. Mountain View Regional Hospital has a **three-star** CMS rating. ER wait times can vary, but are generally **comparable to SCCH**.

Mountain View Regional Hospital provides a range of services, including general surgery, internal medicine, and a dedicated women's health center. The hospital is committed to providing accessible healthcare to the region.

Telehealth services are available, connecting patients with specialists and expanding access to care.

**Assessing Specific Needs: Specialty Centers and Considerations**

Beyond the general hospitals, residents may need to consider specific specialty centers depending on their medical needs.

**Cardiac Care:** For cardiac issues, both SCCH and NRVMC offer cardiology services. NRVMC, with its larger cardiology department and advanced cardiac procedures, may be the preferred choice for patients requiring complex interventions.

**Cancer Care:** NRVMC’s cancer center provides comprehensive oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. This makes it a primary destination for cancer patients in the region.

**Orthopedic Care:** Both SCCH and NRVMC offer orthopedic services, including joint replacements and sports medicine.

**Mental Health:** Access to mental health services is a critical consideration. Both SCCH and NRVMC offer behavioral health services, including inpatient and outpatient care.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

The accessibility of these hospitals is a significant factor for residents of Marion. SCCH is the most accessible option, being located within the town. For those needing to travel to NRVMC or Mountain View Regional Hospital, transportation considerations are important. Driving times, traffic conditions, and the availability of public transportation can impact access to care.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of healthcare is another important factor. Patients should be aware of their insurance coverage and the potential costs associated with treatment at each hospital. SCCH, as a critical access hospital, may have different billing practices than larger facilities.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for residents of Marion, Virginia, is a nuanced picture. SCCH provides essential services with a reasonable CMS star rating and moderate ER wait times, making it the primary healthcare provider. NRVMC offers a higher level of specialization and a better CMS star rating, but requires travel. Mountain View Regional Hospital is another option, but requires more travel.

**Key Takeaways:**

* **Smyth County Community Hospital (SCCH):** A solid, accessible option for general healthcare needs.
* **Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC):** Provides more specialized care with a higher CMS star rating, but requires travel.
* **ER Wait Times:** Variable, with SCCH generally having moderate wait times. Real-time information is crucial.
* **Telehealth:** Increasingly available at all hospitals, improving access to care.
* **Specialty Needs:** Consider specific specialty centers based on individual medical requirements.
* **Accessibility:** Transportation and travel times are crucial factors.
* **Financial Considerations:** Understand insurance coverage and potential costs.

Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and the accessibility of each hospital when making decisions about their care. The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 24330 offers a range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The best choice depends on the individual's specific circumstances and medical requirements. Regular review of hospital performance data, including CMS star ratings and ER wait times, is recommended to make informed decisions about healthcare.