44235, Homerville, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 44235, Homerville, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hudson, OH (ZIP Code 44235)

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to Hudson, Ohio (ZIP code 44235), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services, offering a snapshot of your healthcare options.

**Defining "Near": Geographic Scope**

For the purposes of this review, "near" encompasses hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Hudson, OH. This primarily includes facilities in Summit County and surrounding areas, ensuring accessibility for residents.

**The Importance of the Overall Health Score**

This "Overall Health Score" isn't a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a composite assessment, drawing on various data points to provide a comprehensive picture of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses. We'll consider factors like:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings offer a valuable, standardized benchmark.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. We'll analyze publicly available data to assess this.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence and quality of specialized centers (e.g., cardiology, oncology, neurology) are crucial for advanced care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services are increasingly important for convenient access to care.
* **Patient Reviews:** While subjective, patient reviews provide valuable insights into the patient experience.
* **Hospital Accreditations:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission signifies adherence to quality standards.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General (Akron, OH):** Located approximately 20 minutes from Hudson, Cleveland Clinic Akron General is a major healthcare provider. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a generally high level of quality. Akron General has a comprehensive range of services, including a heart and vascular institute, a cancer center, and a robust emergency department. ER wait times are generally within the national average, but can fluctuate based on the time of day and patient volume. The hospital has invested in telehealth, offering virtual visits for various specialties. Patient reviews are mixed, with some praising the care and others citing concerns about wait times and communication. Akron General holds accreditation from The Joint Commission.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus (Akron, OH):** Also located in Akron, Summa Health System's Akron Campus is another significant player. It currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. Summa Akron Campus offers a broad range of services, including a Level I Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a dedicated women's health center. ER wait times are generally comparable to Akron General. Summa has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual care options for a variety of conditions. Patient reviews are varied, with some highlighting positive experiences and others expressing concerns about wait times and communication. Summa Akron Campus is accredited by The Joint Commission.

**University Hospitals Portage Medical Center (Ravenna, OH):** Situated a bit further east, in Ravenna, OH (approximately 25 minutes from Hudson), University Hospitals Portage Medical Center is a community hospital serving the Portage County area. It has a 3-star CMS rating. Portage Medical Center offers a range of services, including a cardiac catheterization lab, a comprehensive stroke center, and an emergency department. ER wait times are generally shorter than those at the larger hospitals in Akron. Telehealth services are available, though they may be more limited than at the larger Cleveland Clinic and Summa facilities. Patient reviews are generally positive, reflecting a focus on community-based care. Portage Medical Center is accredited by The Joint Commission.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

Several other hospitals and urgent care facilities are within a reasonable driving distance of Hudson, offering additional options. These include:

* **UH Geauga Medical Center (Chardon, OH):** Located approximately 30 minutes east, this hospital is part of the University Hospitals system.
* **Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Situated about 40 minutes south, Aultman Hospital is a regional healthcare provider.
* **Various Urgent Care Centers:** Numerous urgent care centers are located throughout the area, providing convenient access to care for less serious conditions.

**Specialty Centers: Deep Dive**

**Cardiology:** Both Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Akron Campus have well-regarded cardiology programs, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options. University Hospitals Portage Medical Center also provides cardiology services, though with a more limited scope.

**Oncology:** Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Akron Campus have comprehensive cancer centers, providing a full spectrum of cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.

**Neurology:** Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Akron Campus have robust neurology departments, offering treatment for a wide range of neurological conditions, including stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. University Hospitals Portage Medical Center also provides neurology services.

**Telehealth: The Virtual Landscape**

Telehealth services are increasingly accessible in the area. Both Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Akron Campus offer virtual visits for a variety of specialties, including primary care, cardiology, and mental health. University Hospitals Portage Medical Center also provides telehealth options, though the availability may be more limited. Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication management, and certain consultations.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a significant factor in patient satisfaction and access to care. While specific wait times fluctuate, data suggests that Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Akron Campus generally have wait times within the national average. University Hospitals Portage Medical Center often has shorter wait times. It's always advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting an emergency room.

**Patient Reviews: The Voice of Experience**

Patient reviews provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Online reviews on platforms like Google, Healthgrades, and Vitals offer a glimpse into patient satisfaction. However, it's important to consider that reviews can be subjective and may not always reflect the overall quality of care.

**Accreditation: A Stamp of Approval**

Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission signifies that a hospital meets specific quality standards. Both Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Summa Akron Campus, and University Hospitals Portage Medical Center are accredited by The Joint Commission, demonstrating their commitment to patient safety and quality care.

**Overall Health Score Summary: Near Hudson, OH (44235)**

Based on the factors considered, here's a general assessment:

* **Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Offers a high level of care with a 4-star CMS rating, a wide range of specialties, and robust telehealth capabilities. ER wait times are generally within the national average. Patient reviews are mixed.
* **Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Provides a comprehensive range of services, including a Level I Trauma Center. It has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times are generally comparable to Akron General. Telehealth options are available. Patient reviews are varied.
* **University Hospitals Portage Medical Center:** A community hospital with a 3-star CMS rating, offering a range of services. ER wait times are often shorter than at the larger Akron hospitals. Telehealth services are available. Patient reviews are generally positive.

**Important Considerations:**

* **Individual Needs:** The "best" hospital depends on your individual healthcare needs. Consider your specific medical conditions, insurance coverage, and preferences when making a decision.
* **Proximity:** While this review focuses on hospitals "near" Hudson, consider the actual driving distance and traffic conditions.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Consult Your Physician:** Always consult your primary care physician or specialist for recommendations on where to receive care.

**Disclaimer:** This "Overall Health Score" review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Hospital ratings and data can change. Always verify information directly with the hospitals and your healthcare providers.