43840, Stone Creek, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 43840, Stone Creek, Ohio is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 43840

This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near ZIP code 43840, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and the availability of specialized medical services. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare options.

**The Landscape Overview**

ZIP code 43840, encompassing the rural area of McConnelsville, Ohio, presents a unique healthcare environment. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Columbus and Zanesville influences access to specialized care. Residents often rely on a combination of local facilities and regional referral centers.

**Local Hospital Spotlight: Genesis Hospital (Zanesville)**

Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, roughly a 30-minute drive from McConnelsville, serves as a key healthcare provider for the region. Genesis is a 300-bed facility and a regional hub for medical services. It has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Genesis offers a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a heart and vascular center, a cancer center, and a women's health center. The hospital’s emergency room sees a significant volume of patients, and the wait times are a crucial factor for residents. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, data suggests average wait times generally align with regional averages. This can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases.

Genesis Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. These services are particularly valuable for residents in rural areas, reducing the need for lengthy travel for routine appointments or follow-up care. Telehealth utilization rates have increased since the pandemic, reflecting a growing acceptance and integration of virtual healthcare options.

**Regional Referral Centers: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus)**

For specialized care, residents near 43840 often seek services at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, approximately a 90-minute drive. Wexner Medical Center is a flagship hospital, boasting a 5-star CMS rating. This rating signifies exceptional performance in patient care, safety, and overall quality.

Wexner Medical Center is a large, academic medical center offering a vast array of specialized services, including advanced cancer treatment, complex cardiovascular procedures, and transplant services. It is a major referral center for the state and the region. The hospital's emergency room is a high-volume facility, and wait times can be longer than at smaller community hospitals. However, the expertise and resources available at Wexner Medical Center often justify the wait for patients requiring specialized care.

Wexner Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and e-visits. They are at the forefront of telehealth innovation, using technology to improve patient access and convenience. Telehealth utilization rates are consistently high, reflecting the hospital's commitment to providing virtual care options.

**Other Notable Hospitals: Marietta Memorial Hospital (Marietta)**

Marietta Memorial Hospital, located in Marietta, Ohio, is another option for residents near 43840. It is approximately a 1-hour drive. Marietta Memorial Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a range of services, including a cardiac center, a cancer center, and a women's health center. ER wait times are generally comparable to other regional hospitals.

Marietta Memorial Hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. The hospital is focused on improving access to care for patients in the surrounding communities.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The availability of specialty centers is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health landscape. Genesis Hospital in Zanesville offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. Wexner Medical Center in Columbus provides a comprehensive array of specialty services, including advanced cancer treatment, complex cardiovascular procedures, and transplant services. Marietta Memorial Hospital also has specialty centers, including cardiology and cancer care.

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

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. While real-time data fluctuates, average wait times at Genesis Hospital, Marietta Memorial Hospital, and Wexner Medical Center vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially at high-volume facilities like Wexner Medical Center. Resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and local hospital websites often provide some information on average wait times.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services play a vital role in improving access to healthcare for residents in rural areas. Genesis Hospital, Wexner Medical Center, and Marietta Memorial Hospital all offer telehealth options, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and e-visits. These services reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to receive timely care. Telehealth utilization rates have increased significantly in recent years, demonstrating the growing acceptance and integration of virtual healthcare options.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility to healthcare facilities is a key consideration, especially for residents in rural areas. The distance to larger hospitals in Columbus can be a barrier for some patients. Transportation options, including personal vehicles and public transportation, influence access to care. The availability of ambulance services and emergency medical services is also critical in case of emergencies.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are crucial indicators of healthcare quality. The CMS Hospital Compare website provides data on patient satisfaction scores, including measures of communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and overall hospital rating. Patient reviews and online forums can also provide insights into patient experiences.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 43840 is a complex assessment, considering the strengths and weaknesses of the available healthcare options.

* **Strengths:** Access to a range of services, including local hospitals like Genesis Hospital and regional referral centers like Wexner Medical Center. The increasing availability of telehealth services improves access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Weaknesses:** Longer travel times to access specialized care, particularly to Columbus. ER wait times can be a concern, especially at high-volume facilities.
* **Recommendations:** Residents should familiarize themselves with the healthcare options available in the region, including local hospitals, regional referral centers, and telehealth services. Patients should consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences when selecting a provider. Proactive planning for transportation and emergency situations is crucial. Residents should utilize available resources, such as the CMS Hospital Compare website, to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 43840 offers a mix of local and regional options. While residents benefit from access to specialized care at facilities like Wexner Medical Center, the distance and potential wait times require careful consideration. The increasing availability of telehealth services offers a valuable tool for improving access and convenience. By understanding the available options and planning proactively, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively and receive the care they need.