24354, Marion, Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 24354, Marion, Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Pulaski, VA (ZIP Code 24354)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Pulaski, Virginia (ZIP Code 24354), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, factoring in key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, painting a comprehensive picture of the available healthcare options.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

Pulaski, nestled in the southwestern Virginia region, is primarily served by hospitals in the surrounding counties. The primary focus will be on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like emergency access and specialized care needs. The most prominent players in this area include Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC) in Radford, and LewisGale Hospital Pulaski.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (Radford, VA):**

Carilion NRVMC is a significant healthcare provider for the region. This hospital is a key player, and its performance is a critical factor in the overall health score for the area.

**CMS Star Rating:** As of the most recent publicly available data, Carilion NRVMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper into specific areas to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a crucial indicator of access to care, especially in emergency situations. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data often indicates that Carilion NRVMC's ER wait times are generally within the national average. However, it is always recommended to check real-time data before seeking care.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Carilion NRVMC offers a range of specialized services. These include a comprehensive cardiac program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. They also have a dedicated cancer center, providing radiation oncology and medical oncology services. Other specialties include orthopedics, neurology, and women's health. The availability of these specialized services significantly enhances the overall health score for the region.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Carilion Clinic has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in person. The availability of telehealth options positively impacts the overall health score.

**LewisGale Hospital Pulaski (Pulaski, VA):**

LewisGale Hospital Pulaski is another key healthcare provider, serving the immediate area. Its performance also significantly influences the overall health score for the Pulaski community.

**CMS Star Rating:** LewisGale Hospital Pulaski also holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating, similar to Carilion NRVMC, signifies average performance based on the CMS metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at LewisGale Hospital Pulaski are a critical factor. While specific data fluctuates, the hospital strives to maintain wait times comparable to regional averages.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** LewisGale Hospital Pulaski offers a range of services, including a cardiac catheterization lab, a comprehensive stroke center, and various surgical specialties. The hospital also provides behavioral health services, which are crucial in addressing mental health needs within the community. The presence of these specialized services contributes to the overall health score.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** LewisGale Hospital Pulaski has also embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This expansion of telehealth services improves access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors contribute to the overall health score for the 24354 ZIP code.

**Access to Primary Care Physicians:** The availability of primary care physicians is a foundational element of good health. The area has a mix of primary care providers, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatric practices. Assessing the patient-to-physician ratio and the ease of scheduling appointments is crucial.

**Specialty Physician Availability:** Access to specialists is essential for managing complex medical conditions. The region has specialists in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other areas. The proximity and availability of these specialists impact the overall health score.

**Community Health Initiatives:** Local health initiatives and programs play a crucial role in improving the health of the community. These initiatives may include health education programs, disease prevention campaigns, and support groups. The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives contribute to the overall health score.

**Ambulatory Surgical Centers:** The availability of ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) allows for outpatient procedures, reducing the need for hospital stays. The presence of ASCs in the area contributes to the overall health score.

**Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is a critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health clinics in the area significantly impacts the overall health score.

**Specific Data Points and Caveats:**

* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times is constantly changing. Real-time information should be obtained directly from the hospitals or through online resources.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** CMS star ratings are updated periodically. Always refer to the most recent data available on the CMS website.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth offerings are constantly evolving. Confirm the specific telehealth services available with each hospital.
* **Physician Availability:** Physician availability and wait times for appointments can vary. Contacting local clinics and practices is recommended.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews and experiences can offer valuable insights into the quality of care. However, these reviews should be considered alongside objective data.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 24354 is considered to be **moderate**. The presence of two major hospitals, Carilion NRVMC and LewisGale Hospital Pulaski, provides a solid foundation of care. Both hospitals offer a range of services, including emergency care, specialty centers, and telehealth options. However, the 3-star CMS ratings for both hospitals indicate that there is room for improvement.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **Hospital Quality:** Continued efforts to improve CMS star ratings are essential. This includes focusing on patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** Efforts to reduce ER wait times are crucial for ensuring timely access to care.
* **Specialty Access:** Ensuring timely access to specialists, particularly in high-demand areas, is vital.
* **Mental Health Services:** Expanding mental health services and improving access to care is a critical need.
* **Preventive Care:** Increasing the focus on preventive care, health education, and community outreach programs can improve overall health outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 24354 ZIP code have access to essential healthcare services through Carilion NRVMC and LewisGale Hospital Pulaski. While the hospitals offer a range of services, the overall health score is moderate, with areas for improvement. By staying informed about hospital performance, ER wait times, specialty availability, and telehealth options, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare. Furthermore, by supporting community health initiatives and advocating for improved healthcare access, residents can contribute to a healthier community. The ongoing efforts of the hospitals and the community to address these areas for improvement will be critical in raising the overall health score for the Pulaski area.