44266, Ravenna, Ohio Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 44266, Ravenna, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in Northeast Ohio: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44266

Navigating arthritis can be a complex journey, and finding the right medical care is paramount. This review examines hospitals near the Ravenna, Ohio ZIP code of 44266, focusing on their capabilities in treating arthritis, including factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. This information is intended to provide a starting point for patients seeking quality arthritis care in the region.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Ravenna, Ohio, is dominated by a mix of community hospitals and larger, regional medical centers. Access to specialized arthritis care varies, with some facilities offering comprehensive rheumatology services and others relying on referrals to larger institutions. The following analysis provides a snapshot of the key players and their respective strengths.

**University Hospitals (UH) System**

The University Hospitals (UH) system is a major presence in Northeast Ohio, boasting several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Ravenna. UH Cleveland Medical Center, located approximately 40 miles northwest of Ravenna, is the flagship hospital of the system. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating above-average quality of care. UH Cleveland Medical Center is known for its comprehensive rheumatology department, offering a wide range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various forms of arthritis.

UH Portage Medical Center, located in Ravenna itself, offers a more localized option. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized rheumatology services as UH Cleveland Medical Center, it provides primary care and some specialty services, including potential access to rheumatology consultations through its network. The CMS star rating for UH Portage Medical Center is currently unavailable.

**Cleveland Clinic System**

The Cleveland Clinic, another major healthcare provider in the region, is also accessible from Ravenna. The Cleveland Clinic main campus, located about 45 miles northwest, is a renowned medical center with a strong reputation for specialized care. The Cleveland Clinic's Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases is a nationally recognized center, providing advanced treatment options for a wide array of arthritic conditions. The Cleveland Clinic main campus currently holds a 4-star CMS rating.

**Summa Health System**

Summa Health System, with hospitals in the Akron area, provides another option for arthritis care. Summa Health System – Akron Campus, approximately 25 miles southwest of Ravenna, is a large regional hospital. Summa Health System – Akron Campus holds a 3-star CMS rating. While not specifically focused on rheumatology, Summa Health System – Akron Campus offers access to rheumatologists and other specialists through its network.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor in healthcare access, especially for patients experiencing acute arthritis flares. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it's worth noting that larger hospitals like UH Cleveland Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic may experience longer wait times than smaller community hospitals. Patients should consider this when deciding where to seek emergency care. Real-time ER wait times are often available on hospital websites or through online platforms like Google.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general rheumatology services, some hospitals offer specialized programs for specific types of arthritis. These programs may include dedicated clinics for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, or other conditions. Patients should inquire about the availability of such programs at the hospitals they are considering.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Many hospitals in the region offer telehealth consultations with rheumatologists, allowing patients to receive care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. Hospitals may also offer remote monitoring programs, allowing patients to track their symptoms and communicate with their healthcare providers through online portals or mobile apps. The availability of telehealth services varies by hospital and by provider.

**Specific Hospital Profiles**

* **UH Cleveland Medical Center:** As the flagship hospital of the UH system, UH Cleveland Medical Center offers a comprehensive rheumatology department with a wide range of services. The hospital's 4-star CMS rating reflects its commitment to quality care. Patients should expect longer ER wait times. Telehealth options are available.
* **Cleveland Clinic Main Campus:** The Cleveland Clinic is a nationally recognized medical center with a renowned Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases. The hospital's 4-star CMS rating reflects its commitment to quality care. Patients should expect longer ER wait times. Telehealth options are available.
* **Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Summa Health System – Akron Campus offers access to rheumatologists and other specialists through its network. The hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times may be shorter than at larger hospitals. Telehealth options are available.
* **UH Portage Medical Center:** Located in Ravenna, UH Portage Medical Center provides primary care and some specialty services. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized rheumatology services as larger hospitals, it offers a convenient local option. The CMS star rating is currently unavailable. Telehealth options may be limited.

**Research and Clinical Trials**

For patients interested in cutting-edge treatments, research and clinical trials are important considerations. Both UH Cleveland Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic are major research institutions, often participating in clinical trials for new arthritis therapies. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at these hospitals if they are interested in exploring these options.

**Insurance and Cost Considerations**

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs are crucial factors in healthcare decisions. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and rheumatologists they are considering. They should also inquire about the costs of specific services, such as consultations, imaging tests, and medications.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at different hospitals. Patients can find reviews on websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews. These reviews can offer perspectives on the patient experience, including communication with doctors, wait times, and overall satisfaction.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care requires careful consideration of various factors. Patients should assess their individual needs and preferences, considering factors like the type of arthritis they have, their insurance coverage, their location, and their comfort level with different healthcare providers. This review provides a starting point for patients in the Ravenna, Ohio area to begin their research and make informed decisions about their arthritis care. Consulting with a primary care physician or rheumatologist is essential to develop a personalized treatment plan.