44278, Tallmadge, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 44278, Tallmadge, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Wadsworth, OH (ZIP Code 44278)

Finding the right healthcare provider is a critical task, and for residents of Wadsworth, Ohio (ZIP code 44278) and surrounding areas, several options exist. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, delving into key factors like hospital quality, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to help you make informed decisions. This is not medical advice. Always consult with your physician.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The primary healthcare hubs serving the 44278 ZIP code are located in nearby cities, with Akron and Cleveland offering the most comprehensive services. Proximity is a key factor, especially in emergencies. Residents should consider travel time when selecting a primary care physician or specialist.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a snapshot of quality based on various metrics. These ratings are a valuable starting point, but should not be the sole determinant.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Located approximately 15 miles from Wadsworth, Summa Health System – Akron Campus is a major player. It holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects performance across areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Summa Akron offers a broad range of services, including a Level I Trauma Center, cardiovascular care, and cancer treatment.

**Cleveland Clinic – Main Campus:** While a further drive (approximately 35 miles) from Wadsworth, the Cleveland Clinic is renowned nationally and internationally. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States. The Cleveland Clinic holds a **4-star rating** from CMS, reflecting its strong performance in many areas. Its vast network offers a wide array of specialized services, including heart and vascular, neurology, and digestive disease centers. However, the distance and potential traffic congestion should be factored into the decision-making process.

**University Hospitals – Cleveland Medical Center:** Another Cleveland-based institution, University Hospitals (UH) Cleveland Medical Center, is also a significant option. It holds a **4-star rating** from CMS. UH provides a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care in areas like cancer, transplant, and women's health. The distance from Wadsworth is similar to the Cleveland Clinic.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly in urgent situations. While data can fluctuate, understanding average wait times provides valuable insight.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Generally, Summa Akron's ER wait times are reported to be in line with or slightly above the national average. However, wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. It is always best to call ahead or use online tools to check current wait times.

**Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals:** Due to the higher patient volume, ER wait times at the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals can sometimes be longer than those at Summa. However, these institutions are equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies and offer specialized trauma care. Checking online resources or calling ahead is advisable.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, access to specialized services is critical.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Summa Akron boasts a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and specialized pediatric care. They offer a variety of surgical specialties and are equipped to handle complex medical cases.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic is a leader in numerous specialties, including heart and vascular, neurology, and digestive diseases. It has dedicated institutes for cancer, urology, and other specialized areas. Its reputation for complex procedures and cutting-edge research attracts patients from across the globe.

**University Hospitals:** UH offers specialized centers for cancer, women's health, and orthopedics. They have a strong focus on research and innovation, providing access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**Telehealth Availability:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, offering convenient access to healthcare services.

**Summa Health System:** Summa Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for primary care, specialty consultations, and behavioral health services. They offer various platforms for virtual appointments, including video conferencing and secure messaging.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits for a wide range of specialties. They provide access to specialists through video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals.

**University Hospitals:** UH also has a growing telehealth program, offering virtual appointments for primary care, specialty consultations, and follow-up care. They utilize various platforms to provide convenient access to healthcare services.

**Specific Considerations for Wadsworth Residents:**

Wadsworth residents have the advantage of being located relatively close to several major healthcare providers. The choice of where to seek care will depend on individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage.

**Primary Care Physicians:** Choosing a primary care physician (PCP) is the first step. Residents can find PCPs affiliated with Summa, the Cleveland Clinic, or University Hospitals in the Wadsworth area or nearby communities. Consider factors like office location, hours of operation, and the physician's experience and approach to care.

**Specialty Needs:** For specialized care, residents can access the comprehensive services offered by the hospitals in Akron and Cleveland. Consider the reputation of the specialist, the availability of advanced treatments, and the convenience of the location.

**Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in accessing healthcare services. Verify that the chosen hospital and physicians are within your insurance network. Understand the terms of your plan, including deductibles, co-pays, and pre-authorization requirements.

**Patient Experience and Reviews:**

Reading patient reviews and seeking recommendations from friends and family can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's own websites often feature patient reviews. However, remember that individual experiences can vary.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

For residents of Wadsworth, Ohio (44278), the "Overall Health Score" is positive, with access to a range of quality healthcare options.

* **Strong Points:** Proximity to Summa Akron and relatively easy access to the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. Access to a broad range of specialties. Growing telehealth options.
* **Considerations:** Longer travel times to Cleveland-based hospitals. ER wait times can fluctuate. CMS star ratings are a helpful guide but not the only factor.
* **Recommendations:** Research primary care physicians in the Wadsworth area. Consider the specific needs when choosing a hospital or specialist. Utilize online resources to check ER wait times and telehealth availability. Verify insurance coverage. Read patient reviews.

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized healthcare recommendations. Data on wait times and CMS ratings can change. Verify information with the hospitals directly.