40390, Wilmore, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 40390, Wilmore, Kentucky is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Winchester, KY (ZIP Code 40390)

This review provides an overall health score assessment of hospitals serving the Winchester, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40390) area, considering factors crucial to patient well-being. We’ll examine key metrics including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, telehealth availability, and overall reputation. This analysis aims to empower residents with informed decisions about their healthcare options.

**Flagship Hospital: Clark Regional Medical Center (CRMC)**

Clark Regional Medical Center (CRMC), located in Winchester, is the primary hospital serving the 40390 ZIP code. CRMC is a 79-bed facility and a vital component of the community's healthcare infrastructure. While the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) does not currently provide a star rating for CRMC, the hospital's performance can be evaluated through other available data.

CRMC offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgery, cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a dedicated cancer center, offering both diagnostic and treatment services. CRMC’s commitment to community health is evident through various outreach programs and educational initiatives.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a significant concern for patients. Publicly available data provides insights into CRMC’s ER performance. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, CRMC generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Patients should be aware that wait times can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of other patients' conditions. It's always advisable to call ahead or check online for the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Depth of Care**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is a crucial factor. CRMC offers a variety of specialty centers. The cardiology department provides diagnostic and interventional procedures. The orthopedic department offers a range of services, including joint replacements and sports medicine. The hospital's women's health services include obstetrics, gynecology, and mammography.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. CRMC has integrated telehealth into its service offerings, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up care remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients in the surrounding communities who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital. The availability of telehealth can improve access to specialists and reduce the burden of travel for routine appointments. Specific details on the types of telehealth services offered and the specialists available should be confirmed directly with CRMC.

**Patient Satisfaction and Reputation: The Human Element**

Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Review platforms provide a glimpse into how patients perceive the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall hospital environment. While these reviews should be considered alongside other data, they offer a valuable perspective on the human element of healthcare.

**Regional Considerations: Beyond Winchester**

While CRMC is the primary hospital for 40390 residents, it's important to consider regional options. Lexington, Kentucky, is within a reasonable driving distance and offers access to a wider range of hospitals and specialized services.

**University of Kentucky HealthCare: A Regional Powerhouse**

The University of Kentucky HealthCare system, based in Lexington, represents a major healthcare resource for the region. This system includes the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital, a flagship facility. Chandler Hospital is a Level I trauma center, providing the highest level of trauma care. It also offers a vast array of specialized services, including advanced cancer treatment, transplant programs, and complex surgeries.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Comparative Tool**

The University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital has a CMS star rating, which provides a comparative measure of its performance. While the rating is just one data point, it offers a useful benchmark for evaluating quality of care. Patients should review the details behind the star rating to understand the specific areas where the hospital excels and where it may have challenges.

**UK HealthCare: Specialty Centers and Advanced Care**

UK HealthCare excels in various specialties. The Markey Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care, including advanced treatments and clinical trials. The Gill Heart & Vascular Institute offers cutting-edge cardiology and cardiovascular surgery. The hospital's transplant programs are also highly regarded.

**ER Wait Times at UK HealthCare: Navigating a Large System**

Due to the high volume of patients, ER wait times at UK HealthCare can sometimes be longer than at smaller facilities. However, the hospital is committed to providing timely care and offers a variety of options for patients. Patients can check current wait times online or by phone.

**Telehealth at UK HealthCare: Expanding Reach**

UK HealthCare has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings. This includes virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring programs, and access to online patient portals. This has improved access to care for patients throughout the region, including those in the 40390 area.

**Other Hospitals in the Region: Exploring Alternatives**

Beyond CRMC and UK HealthCare, other hospitals in the region may be relevant depending on specific needs.

**Baptist Health Lexington: A Comprehensive Option**

Baptist Health Lexington is another major hospital in Lexington. It provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, cardiology, and cancer treatment. It has a CMS star rating.

**Saint Joseph Hospital: Serving the Lexington Community**

Saint Joseph Hospital, also in Lexington, is part of the CHI Saint Joseph Health system. It offers comprehensive services and has a strong reputation in the community. It also has a CMS star rating.

**Making Informed Decisions: A Holistic Approach**

Choosing the right hospital requires a holistic approach. Consider your individual healthcare needs, the specific services offered by each hospital, and the available data on quality and performance.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Proximity:** Consider the distance to each hospital and the ease of access, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care, research which hospitals offer the specific services you need.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and consider the experiences of others.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Check current wait times before going to the ER.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Explore the telehealth options offered by each hospital to determine if they meet your needs.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Use CMS star ratings as a comparative tool, but remember that they are just one data point.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

For residents of the 40390 ZIP code, Clark Regional Medical Center serves as the primary healthcare provider, offering a range of essential services. For specialized care or in the event of a trauma, the University of Kentucky HealthCare system, with its flagship Chandler Hospital, represents a regional powerhouse. Baptist Health Lexington and Saint Joseph Hospital in Lexington provide additional options.

While CRMC provides essential services, the University of Kentucky HealthCare system, with its CMS star rating, specialized centers, and extensive telehealth offerings, offers a higher overall score, especially for complex medical needs. However, for residents of Winchester, the proximity and established relationships with CRMC often make it the most accessible and convenient option. The best choice will ultimately depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific medical situation. Residents should proactively research their options, understand their insurance coverage, and discuss their healthcare needs with their primary care physician.