44321, Akron, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 44321, Akron, Ohio is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44321 (Akron, Ohio)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Akron, Ohio, specifically those residing near the 44321 ZIP code, access to quality medical care is a critical concern. This review provides an overall health score assessment of the major hospitals in the vicinity, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, empowering informed healthcare decisions.

**The Flagship: Cleveland Clinic Akron General**

Cleveland Clinic Akron General (1421 W Market St, Akron, OH 44313) stands as a dominant force in the local healthcare ecosystem. This hospital, a part of the renowned Cleveland Clinic health system, boasts a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not achieving the highest possible rating, this score reflects a consistent level of quality and patient care. Akron General's emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial consideration. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, the hospital generally strives to keep wait times competitive within the region. Patients can often expect to be seen by a provider within a reasonable timeframe, but it's always advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly.

Akron General is particularly strong in several key specialty areas. The hospital features robust cardiovascular services, including advanced cardiac surgery and interventional cardiology. Its cancer center provides comprehensive oncology care, encompassing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. Furthermore, Akron General offers a wide range of women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology. Telehealth is also a growing area of focus. Akron General has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring services, particularly for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. This expansion is a significant step in increasing accessibility and convenience for patients.

**Summa Health System: A Local Powerhouse**

Summa Health System operates several facilities in the Akron area, with Summa Health System – Akron Campus (525 E Market St, Akron, OH 44304) serving as a primary hub. This hospital also holds a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a comparable level of quality to Akron General. ER wait times at the Akron Campus are also a key metric for patient experience. Like Akron General, Summa Health strives to maintain reasonable wait times, and real-time data is often available online.

Summa Health System – Akron Campus provides a broad spectrum of medical services. The hospital is well-regarded for its orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine. It also has a strong focus on behavioral health services, offering inpatient and outpatient mental health and addiction treatment programs. Summa has also invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. This is particularly beneficial for patients needing convenient access to specialists or follow-up care.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Specialized Care**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other healthcare providers contribute to the overall health landscape near 44321.

**St. Thomas Hospital (444 N Main St, Akron, OH 44310)**, part of the Summa Health System, provides a range of services and often serves as a convenient option for residents in the immediate vicinity. While it might not offer the breadth of services as the larger campuses, it provides essential care and often has shorter wait times for certain services.

**Akron Children's Hospital (One Perkins Square, Akron, OH 44308)** is a critical resource for pediatric care. While not directly within the 44321 ZIP code, it is easily accessible and provides specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents. This hospital is known for its exceptional pediatric specialists and comprehensive services, making it a vital component of the healthcare system for families in the area.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: Navigating Wait Times**

ER wait times are a critical factor in assessing hospital performance. Both Akron General and Summa Health System – Akron Campus, the primary hospitals in the area, actively monitor and manage ER wait times. These times can fluctuate based on patient volume, the severity of cases, and staffing levels. Patients should always check the latest wait time information before heading to the ER, using online resources or calling the hospital. Shorter wait times are generally indicative of efficient operations and the ability to provide timely care.

**Specialty Centers: Access to Expertise**

The presence of specialized centers is a significant indicator of a hospital's capability. Both Akron General and Summa Health System – Akron Campus offer a wide array of specialty services. This includes cardiac care, cancer treatment, orthopedic services, and women's health. The availability of these centers ensures that residents have access to specialized expertise without necessarily traveling long distances. Akron Children's Hospital is the go-to for pediatric specialists.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access and Convenience**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare delivery. Both Akron General and Summa Health System are actively expanding their telehealth offerings. This includes virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online access to medical records. Telehealth is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. It enhances access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. While these ratings are not the sole determinant of a hospital's quality, they offer a valuable benchmark. Both Akron General and Summa Health System – Akron Campus hold 3-star ratings, indicating a consistent level of care. It is important to remember that these ratings are based on a range of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available information, the hospitals near the 44321 ZIP code provide a solid foundation of healthcare services. Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Health System – Akron Campus are the primary hubs, offering a wide range of services and generally competitive ER wait times. Both hospitals have invested in telehealth, expanding access to care. Akron Children's Hospital is a critical resource for pediatric care. While the CMS star ratings are not at the highest level, they indicate a consistent level of quality. Residents of the 44321 ZIP code have access to a diverse range of medical specialties, including cardiovascular care, oncology, orthopedics, and behavioral health. The overall health score for the area is positive, with opportunities for improvement in wait times and expanding telehealth offerings. Patients should always research their specific needs and preferences when choosing a healthcare provider, considering factors like specialist availability, insurance coverage, and personal preferences.