41839, Mousie, Kentucky Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 41839, Mousie, Kentucky is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Pikeville, KY (ZIP Code 41839)

Pikeville, Kentucky, nestled in the heart of Appalachia, presents unique healthcare challenges and opportunities. Access to quality medical care is paramount, and this review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals serving the area, focusing on key metrics relevant to patient well-being. We'll examine the primary healthcare providers within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 41839, considering factors from patient safety to specialized services.

**The Landscape: Primary Players and Geographic Considerations**

The primary hospital serving the Pikeville area is Pikeville Medical Center (PMC). Its prominence necessitates a detailed examination. Other facilities within a practical driving distance, such as those in Ashland, KY, and Charleston, WV, will be considered for their impact on the overall healthcare landscape. Geographic constraints, including mountainous terrain and potentially limited road infrastructure, are crucial factors influencing access to care.

**Pikeville Medical Center (PMC): A Deep Dive**

Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is the dominant healthcare provider in the region. PMC is a large, regional referral center, offering a comprehensive range of services. PMC is a major employer in the area and is a cornerstone of the local economy.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

PMC's performance, as reflected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating, is a critical indicator of quality. CMS assigns hospitals a star rating based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. PMC's CMS star rating is a crucial data point in evaluating its overall performance. While the most current rating is essential, trends over time are also important. A consistent rating, or an upward trajectory, generally indicates improvement. A downward trend raises concerns. The most current CMS data available should be consulted to determine the most accurate rating.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for patients. PMC's ER wait times, measured from the time a patient arrives until they are seen by a healthcare professional, are a key indicator of efficiency and patient access. Publicly available data, such as that provided by CMS or third-party sources, should be used to assess average wait times. Comparisons to national averages and regional benchmarks offer valuable context. Long wait times can negatively impact patient outcomes, especially in critical situations.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

PMC boasts a range of specialty centers. These centers address specific medical needs and are essential for comprehensive care. The presence and quality of these centers are critical. Key specialties to consider include:

* **Cardiology:** PMC's cardiology services, including interventional cardiology, are vital for addressing heart disease, a significant health concern in the region. The availability of advanced procedures, such as cardiac catheterization and angioplasty, is a key indicator of quality.
* **Oncology:** Cancer care is another essential specialty. PMC's oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy, are crucial for patients battling cancer. The availability of a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and supportive care, is important.
* **Orthopedics:** Orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine, are important for addressing musculoskeletal issues. The availability of experienced surgeons and advanced surgical techniques is a key indicator of quality.
* **Women's Health:** PMC's women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology, are essential for providing care to women. The availability of specialized services, such as high-risk obstetrics and gynecologic oncology, is important.
* **Behavioral Health:** Mental health services are a critical need in many communities, and PMC's behavioral health programs are important for addressing mental health concerns. The availability of inpatient and outpatient services, as well as specialized programs for substance abuse, is important.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. PMC's telehealth capabilities, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are critical for expanding access to care. The types of telehealth services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telehealth with other services are key factors.

**Patient Experience:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. PMC's patient satisfaction scores, as measured by surveys such as the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide valuable insights into patient perceptions. The scores reflect patients' experiences with various aspects of care, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Other Hospitals within Reach: Considerations**

While PMC is the primary provider, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance also contribute to the overall healthcare landscape. These include facilities in Ashland, KY, and Charleston, WV.

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

King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC) in Ashland, KY, is approximately a 2-hour drive from Pikeville. KDMC is a regional referral center, offering a wide range of services. Its CMS star rating, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities are all relevant factors. KDMC's impact on the overall healthcare options for residents of 41839 should be assessed.

**Charleston Area Hospitals (WV):**

Charleston, WV, is another potential source of care, although the drive time may be longer. Hospitals in Charleston, such as Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC), offer specialized services and may be considered for specific medical needs. Their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and specialty services are all relevant.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment based on several key factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher star rating generally indicates better quality of care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are preferred.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of a wide range of specialty services is crucial.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Robust telehealth programs improve access to care.
* **Patient Experience:** High patient satisfaction scores are essential.
* **Accessibility:** Geographic location and travel times influence access.
* **Community Health Needs:** Addressing the specific health needs of the local population is important.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**

The Pikeville area faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. These include:

* **Rural Location:** Limited access to specialists and specialized care.
* **Socioeconomic Factors:** Poverty and limited access to healthcare insurance.
* **Health Disparities:** Higher rates of chronic diseases and other health issues.

However, there are also opportunities for improvement:

* **Investment in Healthcare Infrastructure:** Expanding access to care.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** Leveraging technology to reach more patients.
* **Community Health Initiatives:** Addressing specific health needs.
* **Collaboration:** Working with other healthcare providers to improve care coordination.

**Conclusion: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the available information, a preliminary "Overall Health Score" for the area near ZIP code 41839 would be heavily influenced by the performance of Pikeville Medical Center. A comprehensive evaluation requires up-to-date data on PMC's CMS star rating, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and patient satisfaction scores. The performance of hospitals in Ashland, KY, and Charleston, WV, also contribute to the overall picture. Ongoing monitoring of these factors is essential to ensure that residents of Pikeville and surrounding areas have access to quality healthcare. The specific "Overall Health Score" is dynamic and will change as data is updated and improvements are made. This review serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for potential improvement.