43812, Coshocton, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 43812, Coshocton, Ohio is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 43812

This review provides an overview of healthcare options for residents near ZIP code 43812, focusing on hospital performance, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” assessment. The goal is to offer a clear and concise understanding of the healthcare landscape, aiding informed decisions about medical care.

**The Geographic Landscape and Key Considerations**

ZIP code 43812 primarily covers the town of Dover, Ohio, and surrounding areas in Tuscarawas County. This region is characterized by a mix of rural and suburban settings, influencing healthcare access. Proximity to larger cities like Canton and Akron, Ohio, expands the available options, but also introduces potential travel considerations. The overall health score considers these geographical realities.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other metrics. These ratings are a valuable tool for evaluating hospital performance.

**Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital (Dover, OH):** Located directly within the 43812 ZIP code, Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital is a primary healthcare provider. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating readily available, it is part of the broader Cleveland Clinic network, known for its high-quality care and specialized services. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and various medical specialties. Its proximity makes it a convenient option for residents.

**A Deeper Dive into Union Hospital**

Beyond the absence of a CMS star rating, it's important to consider specific aspects of Union Hospital. The hospital’s website provides information on patient outcomes, infection rates, and other quality indicators. Reviewing this data, along with patient testimonials, can offer a more nuanced understanding of the hospital's performance. Residents should also inquire about the hospital's accreditations and certifications from organizations like The Joint Commission.

**Regional Options and Their Performance**

While Union Hospital serves as a local hub, residents may also seek care at hospitals in nearby cities.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Located approximately 30 miles from Dover, Aultman Hospital is a larger facility with a CMS star rating. This hospital offers a broader range of specialized services, including heart care, cancer treatment, and advanced surgical procedures. The longer travel distance is a trade-off for access to potentially more specialized care. Aultman's CMS rating is a key factor in its overall health score.

**Mercy Medical Center (Canton, OH):** Another option in Canton, Mercy Medical Center, also offers a wide array of services. Evaluating its CMS rating and comparing it to Aultman's is crucial for making informed decisions. Mercy's specialized centers, such as its heart and vascular institute, are worth considering.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Longer wait times can indicate overcrowding, staffing shortages, or other operational challenges.

**Union Hospital ER:** Residents should inquire about average ER wait times at Union Hospital. This data is often available on the hospital's website or through online resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. Comparing wait times to regional and national averages provides context.

**Aultman and Mercy ERs:** Similarly, obtaining and comparing ER wait times for Aultman and Mercy Medical Center is essential. This data helps residents assess the potential time commitment involved in seeking emergency care at each facility.

**Specialty Centers: Addressing Specific Healthcare Needs**

The availability of specialized centers significantly impacts the overall health score. These centers cater to specific medical conditions, providing advanced treatments and expertise.

**Union Hospital Specialty Offerings:** Investigate the range of specialty services available at Union Hospital. Does it offer cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other critical specialties? The presence of specialized centers can eliminate the need for travel to distant facilities.

**Aultman and Mercy Specialty Centers:** Assess the specialty centers offered by Aultman and Mercy. These hospitals often have dedicated centers for heart care, cancer treatment, and other complex medical conditions. Consider the specific needs of the individual when evaluating these options.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially in rural areas. They provide remote access to medical consultations, monitoring, and other services.

**Union Hospital Telehealth:** Determine the extent of telehealth services offered by Union Hospital. Does it provide virtual appointments, remote monitoring, or other telehealth options?

**Aultman and Mercy Telehealth:** Evaluate the telehealth capabilities of Aultman and Mercy. These larger hospitals may offer a wider range of telehealth services, potentially expanding access to specialists and reducing the need for in-person visits.

**Telehealth Statistics and Trends:** Researching the utilization rates and patient satisfaction levels for telehealth services at each hospital provides valuable insights.

**Patient Experience: A Qualitative Assessment**

Patient experience is a critical component of the overall health score. This involves assessing factors like communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction.

**Patient Reviews and Surveys:** Consult online patient reviews and satisfaction surveys for each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals provide valuable insights into patient experiences.

**Hospital Communication and Responsiveness:** Evaluate the hospital's communication with patients, including how well they explain diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up instructions.

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Consider the ease of access to each hospital, including parking, public transportation options, and the overall layout of the facilities.

**Insurance Coverage and Cost:**

Investigate which insurance plans each hospital accepts and the associated costs of care. Understanding insurance coverage is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions.

**Community Health Resources:**

Explore the availability of community health resources, such as free clinics, support groups, and wellness programs, in the 43812 area.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 43812 is a composite of several factors. Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital offers convenient local care, but residents should thoroughly investigate its performance metrics and specialty offerings. Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center in Canton provide access to a broader range of specialized services, but require longer travel times. ER wait times, telehealth availability, patient reviews, and insurance coverage are critical considerations. Residents should carefully weigh these factors to determine the best healthcare options for their individual needs. The absence of a CMS star rating for Union Hospital necessitates a more in-depth evaluation of its quality metrics and patient satisfaction data. By considering all these elements, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and improve their overall health outcomes.