41264, Ulysses, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 41264, Ulysses, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 41264

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents near ZIP code 41264, which encompasses Louisa, Kentucky, understanding the available medical resources is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering various factors to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We will examine the primary hospitals in the region, focusing on their strengths, weaknesses, and key performance indicators.

**The Landscape of Care: Primary Hospitals**

The immediate vicinity of Louisa doesn't boast a plethora of large, nationally-recognized hospitals. Instead, residents primarily rely on a network of regional facilities, often smaller in scale but vital to the community. The closest major hospital providing a wide array of services is likely to be in Ashland, Kentucky, or Huntington, West Virginia, both within a reasonable driving distance.

**Flagship Hospital: King's Daughters Medical Center (Ashland, KY)**

King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC) in Ashland, Kentucky, is a prominent healthcare provider serving the region. It's a large, multi-specialty hospital with a broad range of services. KDMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper into specific areas.

**King's Daughters: Deeper Dive**

KDMC's emergency department (ED) is a critical access point for the community. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's generally advisable to check online resources or call ahead to gauge current conditions. The hospital’s website or third-party sites often provide this information. KDMC offers a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. They have a dedicated heart center, cancer center, and a robust orthopedic program. The hospital also has a significant focus on women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology.

**Telehealth at King's Daughters**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. KDMC offers telehealth services, enabling patients to access care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing chronic conditions. The availability and types of telehealth services offered can vary, so it's crucial to check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Huntington, WV: Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center**

Venturing slightly further afield, the Huntington, West Virginia, area offers additional hospital options. Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center are both significant healthcare providers. Cabell Huntington Hospital is a large, tertiary care center affiliated with Marshall University. St. Mary's Medical Center is a Catholic hospital. Both hospitals offer a wide range of services and are equipped to handle complex medical cases.

**Cabell Huntington Hospital: A Closer Look**

Cabell Huntington Hospital is a Level II trauma center, a critical designation indicating its ability to provide advanced trauma care. This is a significant asset for the region. Cabell Huntington also has a strong reputation for its cancer care programs and its affiliation with Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, offering access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. The hospital’s CMS star rating fluctuates, so it's important to check the most current data on the CMS website.

**St. Mary's Medical Center: The Catholic Perspective**

St. Mary's Medical Center, a member of the Mountain Health Network, offers a faith-based approach to healthcare. It provides a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care in areas such as cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. St. Mary's also has a strong focus on community outreach and education. Like Cabell Huntington, it's essential to check the most recent CMS star ratings to assess performance.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. While real-time wait times are dynamic, it's wise to be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Both King's Daughters and the Huntington hospitals typically have publicly available information about ER wait times, either on their websites or through third-party platforms.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Care**

The availability of specialty centers is a key indicator of a hospital's capabilities. KDMC, Cabell Huntington, and St. Mary's all have dedicated centers for cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. These centers provide specialized expertise and resources for patients with specific medical needs. The presence of these centers reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for advanced care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for patients in rural areas. All the mentioned hospitals offer telehealth services to varying degrees. These services can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Big Hospitals**

Beyond the major hospitals, the region also benefits from a network of smaller clinics, urgent care centers, and physician practices. These facilities provide essential primary care, preventative services, and immediate medical attention for less serious conditions. It's important to research the specific services offered by these facilities and their hours of operation.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP code 41264 is a complex calculation, as the area relies on a network of hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

* **King's Daughters Medical Center:** Offers a broad range of services and is a primary healthcare provider. Its 3-star CMS rating suggests average performance, and it's crucial to assess specific areas of care.
* **Cabell Huntington Hospital:** Provides advanced care, including Level II trauma services, and has strong affiliations with a medical school.
* **St. Mary's Medical Center:** Offers a faith-based approach to care and a comprehensive range of services.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Specific Needs:** Before choosing a hospital, research the specific services you need and the reputation of the hospitals in those areas.
* **Check CMS Ratings:** Regularly check the CMS website for the most up-to-date star ratings and quality data.
* **Inquire About Telehealth:** If telehealth is important to you, confirm the availability and types of services offered by each hospital.
* **Consider Distance and Travel Time:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital, especially in an emergency.
* **Don't Forget Primary Care:** Establish a relationship with a primary care physician for preventative care and routine medical needs.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 41264 offers a range of options, from regional hospitals to specialized centers. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for your research. Remember to always prioritize your individual healthcare needs and consult with your physician to determine the best course of action.