26269, Hambleton, West Virginia COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 26269, Hambleton, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breathing Easier: A COPD Score Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26269

Finding the right healthcare for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is crucial, especially in a rural area like the one surrounding ZIP code 26269 in West Virginia. This review delves into the available hospitals, focusing on factors vital for COPD patients: pulmonary expertise, emergency care access, and telehealth capabilities. We'll analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, offering a COPD score based on publicly available data and expert recommendations. Note: this review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician.

**Understanding the Landscape: ZIP Code 26269**

ZIP code 26269 encompasses the town of Parsons, West Virginia, and the surrounding Tucker County. This region is characterized by its rural nature, potentially impacting access to specialized medical care. Proximity to larger hospitals in neighboring counties and states becomes a critical consideration.

**Hospital Profiles: A Deep Dive**

**1. Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV - Approximately 25 miles from 26269)**

Davis Medical Center (DMC) in Elkins is the closest major hospital to Parsons. DMC is a 90-bed facility and is the primary healthcare provider for much of Randolph County, which borders Tucker County.

* **Pulmonary Expertise:** DMC has a respiratory therapy department and offers pulmonary rehabilitation services. They have a dedicated pulmonary function laboratory, which is essential for diagnosing and monitoring COPD.
* **Emergency Care:** DMC's Emergency Department (ED) is a key point of access. Publicly available data indicates that ED wait times can fluctuate. It's important to note that ED wait times are dynamic and depend on factors like patient volume and severity of illness. DMC's website or local news outlets may provide more current wait time information.
* **Telehealth:** DMC has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for COPD patients, allowing for remote monitoring, medication management, and consultations with pulmonologists.
* **CMS Star Rating:** DMC has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.
* **Specialty Centers:** DMC has a comprehensive cardiology center, and offers a range of other specialty services.
* **COPD Score:** 7/10. DMC's proximity, pulmonary services, and telehealth initiatives make it a strong option for COPD patients in the area. The 3-star CMS rating indicates room for improvement in certain areas.

**2. Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV - Approximately 70 miles from 26269)**

Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown is a larger facility, offering a wider range of specialized services. It is part of the Mon Health System, which includes several affiliated clinics and hospitals.

* **Pulmonary Expertise:** Mon Health has a dedicated pulmonology department with board-certified pulmonologists. They offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for COPD, including bronchoscopy and pulmonary rehabilitation.
* **Emergency Care:** Mon Health's ED is equipped to handle complex cases. Due to its larger size, wait times can vary. Real-time wait time information may be available on their website or through local media.
* **Telehealth:** Mon Health has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring for COPD patients.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Mon Health has a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Specialty Centers:** Mon Health has a wide array of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center and a heart and vascular institute.
* **COPD Score:** 8/10. Mon Health offers a higher level of pulmonary expertise and access to more specialized services, making it a strong choice for patients who need more advanced care. The distance from 26269 is a significant factor to consider.

**3. WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV - Approximately 75 miles from 26269)**

J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, the flagship hospital of WVU Medicine, is a major tertiary care center located in Morgantown. It is a Level I trauma center and offers a comprehensive range of medical services.

* **Pulmonary Expertise:** Ruby Memorial has a nationally recognized pulmonary and critical care medicine department. They offer cutting-edge treatments for COPD, including clinical trials and access to the latest therapies.
* **Emergency Care:** As a Level I trauma center, Ruby Memorial's ED is equipped to handle the most critical cases. Wait times can be longer due to the high volume of patients. Real-time information may be available online.
* **Telehealth:** WVU Medicine has a well-developed telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Ruby Memorial has a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Specialty Centers:** Ruby Memorial boasts numerous specialty centers, including a transplant center, a comprehensive cancer center, and a heart and vascular institute.
* **COPD Score:** 9/10. Ruby Memorial offers the highest level of pulmonary expertise and access to the most advanced treatments. The distance from 26269 and potential for longer wait times in the ED are factors to consider.

**4. Garrett Regional Medical Center (Oakland, MD - Approximately 70 miles from 26269)**

Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland, Maryland, is another option for residents of 26269. This hospital is located in a neighboring state and may be a viable choice depending on individual circumstances and insurance coverage.

* **Pulmonary Expertise:** Garrett Regional offers pulmonary services, including pulmonary rehabilitation.
* **Emergency Care:** The ED is available for emergency situations.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options may be available.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Garrett Regional has a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Specialty Centers:** Garrett Regional offers a variety of specialty services.
* **COPD Score:** 6/10. Garrett Regional provides a local option with pulmonary services. The distance from 26269 and the need to cross state lines are factors to consider.

**5. Additional Considerations: Smaller Clinics and Urgent Care Facilities**

In addition to the hospitals listed above, residents of 26269 may have access to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in the surrounding area. These facilities can provide basic medical care, including treatment for COPD exacerbations. However, they typically do not offer the same level of pulmonary expertise or specialized services as the larger hospitals.

**Telehealth: A Game Changer for COPD Patients**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in COPD care, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to connect with pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for frequent trips to the hospital. Telehealth can be used for medication management, pulmonary rehabilitation, and monitoring of symptoms.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Pulmonary Expertise:** Look for hospitals with board-certified pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
* **Emergency Care Access:** Consider ED wait times and the hospital's ability to handle COPD exacerbations.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Inquire about telehealth options for remote monitoring, consultations, and medication management.
* **Proximity:** Factor in the distance to the hospital, especially in emergencies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews and testimonials to get insights into patient experiences.

**COPD Score: A Summary**

The COPD score is a subjective assessment based on the factors discussed above. It is intended to provide a general overview of the hospitals in the area and should not be the sole basis for making healthcare decisions.

* **Davis Medical Center:** 7/10
* **Mon Health Medical Center:** 8/10
* **WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital:** 9/10
* **Garrett Regional Medical Center:** 6/10

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For residents of 26269, the choice of hospital for COPD care depends on individual needs and preferences. Davis Medical Center offers convenient access and essential services. Mon Health and Ruby Memorial provide more specialized pulmonary expertise and advanced treatments, but require longer travel times. Garrett Regional provides a local option with pulmonary services. Telehealth offers an increasingly important tool for managing COPD in a rural setting. Patients should consult with their primary care physician and pulmonologist to determine the best course of action and to create a personalized COPD management plan.