43747, Jerusalem, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 43747, Jerusalem, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 43747 (Cambridge, Ohio)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Cambridge, Ohio (ZIP Code 43747), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We'll analyze facilities based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. This is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and you should always consult with your physician.

**The Landscape: Healthcare in and Around Cambridge**

The primary hospital serving Cambridge and the surrounding area is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC). While options are limited within the immediate vicinity, residents also access facilities in nearby cities like Zanesville and Marietta. This review will focus on SEORMC as the primary local provider and then touch upon alternatives for specialized care.

**Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC): A Deep Dive**

SEORMC is the cornerstone of healthcare in Cambridge. It's a 148-bed facility offering a range of services. However, it's crucial to understand its performance metrics.

**CMS Star Rating:** As of the latest available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), SEORMC has a **2-star rating**. This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, encompassing patient experience, safety, mortality, and efficiency. A 2-star rating indicates areas for improvement. It's important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ProPublica's Hospital Compare, provides insights into average ER wait times. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's essential to monitor this metric. Longer wait times can indicate potential overcrowding or resource constraints. Check the latest available data for SEORMC's ER wait times.

**Specialty Services:** SEORMC offers a variety of specialty services. Key areas to consider include:

* **Cardiology:** The hospital provides cardiac care, including diagnostic testing and treatment. Investigate whether they offer advanced procedures like cardiac catheterization.
* **Orthopedics:** Orthopedic services address bone and joint issues. Determine the scope of services, including surgical capabilities and rehabilitation programs.
* **Oncology:** Cancer care is crucial. Assess the availability of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services.
* **Women's Health:** Look for obstetrics and gynecology services, including labor and delivery capabilities.
* **Surgical Services:** Evaluate the range of surgical procedures offered, including minimally invasive options.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is increasingly important. Check if SEORMC offers telehealth consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or specialist consultations. Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of quality. Review patient experience scores, often found on the CMS Hospital Compare website, to gauge patient perspectives on care, communication, and overall experience. Look for comments on the hospital's cleanliness, staff responsiveness, and overall atmosphere.

**Beyond SEORMC: Exploring Regional Options**

While SEORMC is the primary provider, residents may need to seek specialized care elsewhere. Consider these regional options:

**Genesis Hospital (Zanesville, OH):** Located approximately 30 miles from Cambridge, Genesis Hospital is a larger facility with a broader range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Genesis Hospital typically receives a higher CMS star rating than SEORMC. Check the latest CMS data for the current rating.
* **Specialty Centers:** Genesis often boasts specialized centers, potentially including advanced cardiology, neurology, and cancer care. Research the specific programs offered.
* **ER Performance:** Compare Genesis's ER wait times to SEORMC's.
* **Telehealth:** Investigate Genesis's telehealth offerings.

**Memorial Health System (Marietta, OH):** Located about 50 miles from Cambridge, Memorial Health System provides another alternative.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Assess Memorial's CMS star rating.
* **Specialty Services:** Explore the specialized services available, particularly if you need a specific type of care not readily available at SEORMC.
* **ER Performance:** Research ER wait times.
* **Telehealth:** Evaluate telehealth options.

**Factors Influencing Your Choice**

Several factors should influence your hospital choice:

* **Specific Medical Needs:** The type of care you need is paramount. If you require specialized treatment, research hospitals with those capabilities.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Proximity:** Consider travel time, especially in emergencies.
* **Physician Referrals:** Consult your primary care physician for recommendations.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider patient reviews and your comfort level with the hospital environment.

**Analyzing the Data: Putting it All Together**

To arrive at an "Overall Health Score," you must synthesize the data.

* **CMS Star Rating:** This is a crucial starting point, but it's not the sole determinant. A higher rating generally indicates better overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are preferable, especially in urgent situations.
* **Specialty Services:** Assess whether the hospital offers the specific services you or your family may need.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth can enhance access to care and convenience.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider patient reviews and satisfaction scores.

**Example Scenario:**

Let's say SEORMC has a 2-star rating, a moderate ER wait time, and offers basic cardiology and orthopedic services. Genesis Hospital has a 4-star rating, shorter ER wait times, and a comprehensive cardiology program. In this scenario, if you need specialized cardiac care, Genesis might be a better choice, even with the longer travel time. However, if you need routine care and value convenience, SEORMC may still be a suitable option.

**Important Considerations:**

* **Data Fluctuations:** Hospital performance data is dynamic. Check the most up-to-date information from reliable sources like CMS and ProPublica.
* **Individual Needs:** This review provides a general overview. Your individual medical needs and preferences should guide your decisions.
* **Consult Your Physician:** Always consult your doctor for personalized medical advice and recommendations.
* **Research Thoroughly:** Don't rely solely on this review. Conduct your own research and gather information from multiple sources.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital is a critical decision. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your healthcare needs. Remember to prioritize your health, consult with your physician, and stay informed about the healthcare options available to you in the Cambridge, Ohio, area. The "Overall Health Score" is a guide, not a definitive answer. Your health and well-being are the ultimate priorities.