41143, Grayson, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 41143, Grayson, Kentucky is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Grayson, KY (ZIP Code 41143)

Finding quality healthcare is paramount, and for residents near Grayson, Kentucky (ZIP code 41143), several hospitals offer a range of services. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. It's important to remember that healthcare needs are individual, and this analysis should be a starting point for informed decision-making, not a definitive recommendation.

**Regional Players and CMS Star Ratings:**

The primary hospital serving the Grayson area is **Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital (OLBH)**, located in Ashland, KY, approximately 20 minutes away. While OLBH is no longer a standalone hospital and has been absorbed into the larger King's Daughters Health System, it remains a crucial healthcare provider for the region. Unfortunately, publicly available CMS star ratings for the former OLBH are no longer available, as the facility has been integrated into the larger system.

**King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC)** in Ashland, KY, is the flagship hospital within the King's Daughters Health System. KDMC is a large regional medical center that serves a wide area. KDMC has a good reputation in the area, and it is a Level II Trauma Center. It is important to note that CMS star ratings for KDMC are also not available at this time.

**Accessing Emergency Care: ER Wait Times and Considerations:**

Emergency care access is a critical factor in any health assessment. Average ER wait times can fluctuate significantly based on patient volume, staffing levels, and the severity of cases. While publicly available, real-time ER wait time data can be challenging to obtain for specific hospitals, it's crucial to consider this aspect. KDMC is the primary ER provider for the area. The wait times can vary, so it's best to call the hospital to inquire about the current wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general medical care, the availability of specialized services significantly impacts the "Overall Health Score." Both KDMC offer a comprehensive range of specialty services. KDMC offers cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health services. These centers often represent a higher level of care and can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized treatment.

**Telehealth Integration: A Modern Healthcare Advantage:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for rural communities. It offers convenient access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and mental health services. KDMC has invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits for various specialties. This allows patients to connect with providers remotely, reducing travel burdens and improving access to care. The specific number of telehealth appointments and the range of services offered can vary, so it's advisable to check with the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Additional Hospitals in the Region:**

While KDMC is the primary hospital for the area, other facilities are within a reasonable driving distance. These include:

* **Cabell Huntington Hospital (Huntington, WV):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Grayson, Cabell Huntington Hospital is a large regional medical center offering a wide array of services. Cabell Huntington Hospital is a teaching hospital and is affiliated with Marshall University. It has a Level I Trauma Center. CMS star ratings for this facility can be found on the CMS website.
* **St. Mary's Medical Center (Huntington, WV):** Also located in Huntington, WV, St. Mary's is another major hospital in the region. St. Mary's is a Catholic hospital and offers a variety of services. CMS star ratings for this facility can be found on the CMS website.

**Analyzing the "Overall Health Score" for the 41143 Area:**

The "Overall Health Score" for the Grayson, KY area is influenced by several factors. The presence of KDMC, a regional medical center, is a significant positive. The availability of specialized services and the integration of telehealth further enhance the score. However, the lack of publicly available CMS star ratings for the primary hospital and the potential for longer ER wait times (which can vary) are areas for consideration.

**Factors that Influence the Score:**

* **Proximity to a major medical center:** KDMC provides a wide range of services.
* **Specialty services:** The availability of cardiology, oncology, and other specialties reduces the need for travel.
* **Telehealth integration:** Virtual visits improve access to care, especially for rural residents.
* **ER wait times:** Potential for fluctuations can impact access to emergency care.
* **CMS star ratings:** The lack of publicly available CMS star ratings for KDMC makes it difficult to assess quality metrics.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Residents of the 41143 ZIP code should consider these factors when assessing their healthcare options. It's crucial to:

* **Research specific needs:** Identify the services required and whether the local hospitals offer them.
* **Inquire about ER wait times:** Contact the hospitals directly for current wait time information.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Determine the range of virtual services available.
* **Consult with primary care physicians:** Seek recommendations and guidance on the best healthcare providers.
* **Consider travel distance:** Factor in the time and effort required to access healthcare facilities.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Grayson, KY (41143) is anchored by KDMC, a regional medical center that provides a wide array of services. The presence of specialty centers and the integration of telehealth contribute to a positive "Overall Health Score." However, residents should be mindful of potential ER wait times and the absence of publicly available CMS star ratings for the primary hospital. By carefully considering individual healthcare needs and utilizing the resources available, residents can make informed decisions and access the care they require. This review provides a general overview, and further research and direct communication with healthcare providers are essential for making personalized healthcare choices.