41265, Van Lear, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 41265, Van Lear, Kentucky is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 41265

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of ZIP Code 41265 (Prestonsburg, Kentucky, and surrounding areas), understanding the landscape of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on key performance indicators, specialty offerings, and accessibility to help residents make informed decisions about their care. We'll delve into the available options, examining their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data and industry standards.

**The Landscape: Primary Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of 41265 is largely served by a few key hospitals. The most prominent is **King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC)** in Ashland, Kentucky, which, while not directly within the ZIP code, is a major regional referral center. Other options closer to Prestonsburg include **Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center** in Paintsville and **Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center** in Prestonsburg itself. The geographic constraints of the area, coupled with the specialized nature of certain treatments, mean that access to care often involves travel.

**King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC): A Regional Powerhouse**

King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC), located approximately an hour's drive from Prestonsburg, serves as a major tertiary care center for the region. KDMC is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide array of services, including advanced cardiac care, cancer treatment, and specialized surgical procedures.

* **CMS Star Rating:** KDMC currently holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on measures of quality, safety, and patient experience, provides a general overview of the hospital's performance. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of quality consistent with many hospitals across the nation.
* **Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** The ED at KDMC typically experiences moderate wait times. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data suggests that patients can expect to wait a reasonable amount of time before being seen by a provider. However, it's always advisable to check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospital directly, especially during peak hours.
* **Specialty Centers:** KDMC boasts a robust network of specialty centers. Their **Heart Institute** is a regional leader, offering advanced cardiac interventions and comprehensive cardiac care. The **Cancer Center** provides a full spectrum of oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. They also have specialized centers for orthopedics, neurology, and women's health.
* **Telehealth:** KDMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may face transportation challenges. The hospital has increased its telehealth offerings, particularly in areas like mental health and chronic disease management, to improve accessibility to care.

**Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center: Serving the Local Community**

Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center in Paintsville, approximately a 30-minute drive from Prestonsburg, is a smaller, community-focused hospital. It provides essential services to the local population.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Paul B. Hall currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating suggests an average level of quality and safety.
* **Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** ED wait times at Paul B. Hall are generally shorter than those at larger regional centers. This is often a significant advantage for patients seeking immediate care.
* **Specialty Offerings:** Paul B. Hall provides core services, including general surgery, internal medicine, and obstetrics. It may not have the same breadth of specialty services as KDMC, but it offers essential care for common medical conditions.
* **Telehealth:** Paul B. Hall has implemented telehealth services, primarily focused on connecting patients with specialists and providing remote monitoring for chronic conditions. This is a vital asset for residents in a rural area.

**Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center: Serving Prestonsburg**

Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center, located directly in Prestonsburg, is the closest hospital for residents of 41265. It is part of the Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Highlands ARH currently holds a **2-star rating** from CMS. This indicates areas for improvement in quality and patient experience.
* **Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** ED wait times are typically moderate. The hospital is a crucial resource for immediate care within the community.
* **Specialty Offerings:** Highlands ARH offers a range of services, including general surgery, internal medicine, and obstetrics. It has a focus on providing primary care and addressing the healthcare needs of the local population.
* **Telehealth:** Highlands ARH has adopted telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. This is a crucial component of healthcare delivery in the area.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Additional Considerations**

Beyond the primary hospitals, residents of 41265 should also consider the following factors:

* **Access to Specialists:** The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, can be a significant factor in choosing a healthcare provider. KDMC, being a regional referral center, generally has a wider range of specialists.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Google Reviews offer patient feedback.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers accept your health insurance plan. Verify coverage details with your insurance provider before seeking care.
* **Transportation:** Consider the distance and travel time to each hospital, especially in emergency situations.
* **Community Health Needs:** Understand the specific health needs of the community. Some hospitals may have programs or services tailored to address local health concerns, such as diabetes management or substance abuse treatment.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on available data and the factors discussed, here's a general "Overall Health Score" assessment for hospitals near ZIP Code 41265:

* **King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC):** KDMC receives a solid score due to its comprehensive services, robust specialty centers, and expanding telehealth offerings. The 3-star CMS rating, while not exceptional, indicates a level of quality that is generally acceptable. However, the distance from Prestonsburg is a consideration.
* **Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center:** Paul B. Hall earns a decent score, primarily for its convenience and shorter ED wait times. Its 3-star CMS rating suggests a reasonable level of quality. The availability of core services makes it a valuable resource for the local community.
* **Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center:** Highlands ARH receives a lower score due to its 2-star CMS rating. While it offers convenient access for Prestonsburg residents, the lower rating suggests areas for improvement in quality and patient experience.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Residents of 41265 should weigh the factors discussed above, including distance, specialty offerings, patient reviews, and insurance coverage, to make informed choices about their healthcare. While KDMC offers a broader range of services, the closer proximity of Paul B. Hall and Highlands ARH may be more convenient for some. It is essential to research all available options and to discuss your healthcare needs with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action. Regular check-ups, proactive health management, and a strong patient-provider relationship are vital for maintaining optimal health in any community.