41219, Flatgap, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 41219, Flatgap, Kentucky is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 41219

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 41219, offering a fact-rich perspective on available options, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Defining the Scope:**

ZIP code 41219 primarily encompasses the city of Ashland, Kentucky, and its surrounding areas. This review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering accessibility and the potential for regional referrals. The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment based on publicly available data, recognizing that individual experiences can vary.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

A cornerstone of healthcare evaluation is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system. This system provides a readily accessible, five-star rating for hospitals based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors.

King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC) in Ashland, Kentucky, is a major regional healthcare provider and the most prominent hospital in the immediate vicinity of 41219. KDMC's CMS star rating is a crucial indicator of its overall performance. As of the latest publicly available data, KDMC’s CMS star rating is a 3-star rating. This rating reflects its performance in areas such as mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times: A Critical Metric:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for anyone seeking immediate medical attention. Shorter wait times often correlate with better patient outcomes and a more positive experience. Data on ER wait times is often publicly available through hospital websites or third-party sources.

KDMC's ER wait times are a key consideration. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like Hospital Compare and other healthcare data aggregators should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. These sources often provide median wait times for both physician arrival and patient discharge. Tracking these metrics over time can reveal trends and provide insights into the efficiency of the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Addressing Diverse Needs:**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is crucial for addressing specific health needs. Hospitals near 41219 offer a range of specialty centers, catering to various medical disciplines.

KDMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. The cardiology center provides services for heart disease diagnosis and treatment, including interventional cardiology procedures. The oncology center offers comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The orthopedic center specializes in musculoskeletal care, including joint replacements and sports medicine. The women's health center provides services for obstetrics, gynecology, and other women's health concerns.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access and Convenience:**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. It allows patients to access medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and other services remotely.

KDMC has embraced telehealth to expand access to care. It offers telehealth services for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. Telehealth allows patients to connect with providers via video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging platforms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in remote areas, those with mobility issues, or those seeking convenient follow-up care. The utilization rates of telehealth services are an important metric to assess, reflecting patient adoption and the effectiveness of the programs.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

While KDMC is the primary hospital in the immediate area, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance provide alternative options.

Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, is approximately a 45-minute drive from Ashland. Cabell Huntington Hospital is a major regional referral center. Cabell Huntington Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. This hospital offers a wider array of specialized services, including a Level I Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and advanced cardiovascular care.

St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, is another option. St. Mary's Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. St. Mary's provides a range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score:**

Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" involves weighing the various factors discussed above.

* **KDMC:** As the primary hospital in the immediate area, KDMC's 3-star CMS rating is a key indicator. Its comprehensive range of specialty centers and telehealth offerings are positive factors. However, patients should carefully monitor ER wait times.
* **Cabell Huntington Hospital:** The 3-star CMS rating and the availability of specialized services, including a Level I Trauma Center, make it a strong option for complex medical needs. The longer travel time is a consideration.
* **St. Mary's Medical Center:** The 3-star CMS rating and the availability of specialty services make it another option. The longer travel time is a consideration.

**Factors Beyond the Numbers:**

While this review provides a data-driven assessment, several factors are not easily quantifiable but are crucial to consider:

* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are invaluable. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient feedback, providing insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.
* **Physician Expertise:** Researching the credentials and experience of physicians is essential. Checking physician profiles on hospital websites or through professional organizations can provide information on their training, board certifications, and areas of specialization.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission signifies adherence to quality and safety standards.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan is crucial.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a framework for evaluating healthcare options near ZIP code 41219. KDMC serves as the primary healthcare provider, with a range of services and a 3-star CMS rating. Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center offer additional options with a broader range of specialized services. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and the factors discussed above to make the most informed decision. Regular monitoring of ER wait times, patient reviews, and the latest CMS star ratings is recommended to stay abreast of the evolving healthcare landscape. The best healthcare decision is one that is informed, proactive, and tailored to individual needs.