44446, Niles, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 44446, Niles, Ohio is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 44446

Residents of the 44446 ZIP code, encompassing the city of Niles, Ohio, and surrounding areas, have a diverse range of healthcare options, from large, regional medical centers to smaller community hospitals and specialized clinics. Assessing the overall health landscape requires a nuanced look at factors including hospital quality, accessibility, wait times, and the availability of specialized services. This review aims to provide an informed perspective, focusing on key healthcare providers within a reasonable radius, and offering an "Overall Health Score" based on publicly available data.

**The Regional Players: A Look at Flagship Hospitals**

The cornerstone of healthcare in the region is often considered to be the **Mercy Health - St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital**, located approximately 20 miles from Niles. This flagship hospital, part of a large Catholic healthcare system, is a major referral center for the area. The hospital boasts a strong reputation, and its services include a Level I Trauma Center, comprehensive cardiac care, and a wide range of surgical specialties. While not directly within the 44446 ZIP code, its proximity makes it a crucial resource for residents. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating. This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. However, it's important to note that CMS ratings are just one metric, and patient experiences can vary.

Another significant player in the regional healthcare ecosystem is **University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center**, located in Ravenna, Ohio, roughly 30 miles from Niles. While further afield than St. Elizabeth Youngstown, UH Portage offers a different network of specialists and services, and is a valuable option for residents. UH Portage also has a strong reputation for its cardiovascular and orthopedic services. CMS data indicates a 3-star rating for UH Portage Medical Center.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: Navigating Urgent Care**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Unfortunately, real-time wait times can fluctuate significantly, and publicly available data often lags. However, understanding average wait times provides valuable context. For both St. Elizabeth Youngstown and UH Portage, it's advisable to check online resources like the hospital websites or third-party platforms like Google Maps for the most current estimates. These resources often provide real-time or near real-time wait time information. Shorter wait times often indicate a more efficient ER and can be a crucial factor in choosing where to seek urgent care.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Expertise**

Beyond general hospital services, access to specialized care is vital. Both St. Elizabeth Youngstown and UH Portage offer a range of specialty centers. St. Elizabeth Youngstown is known for its comprehensive cancer care through the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center and its advanced cardiac services. UH Portage also has dedicated centers for cancer treatment, cardiology, and orthopedics. Residents should research specific specialists and programs based on their individual needs.

**Telehealth Trends: Embracing Digital Healthcare**

Telehealth services are rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, particularly in areas with potentially limited access to specialists. Both Mercy Health and University Hospitals have expanded their telehealth offerings. These services can include virtual doctor visits, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists via video conferencing. The availability of telehealth is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas, reducing the need for travel and increasing access to care. The utilization rates of telehealth services and patient satisfaction levels are constantly evolving, and it is worth checking each hospital's website for the latest information.

**Community Hospitals and Clinics: Local Options**

In addition to the larger hospitals, several community hospitals and clinics serve the 44446 area. **Trumbull Regional Medical Center** in Warren, Ohio, is approximately 15 miles from Niles. It is a community hospital that offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized clinics. However, it's important to note that Trumbull Regional Medical Center has faced challenges in recent years, and its CMS star rating is currently unavailable. This should be factored into any evaluation of care.

Smaller clinics and urgent care centers are also available within and near the 44446 ZIP code. These facilities can provide convenient access for routine medical needs and minor illnesses or injuries. While they may not offer the same level of specialized care as larger hospitals, they play a crucial role in providing accessible healthcare.

**Mental Health Services: Addressing a Critical Need**

Access to mental health services is a significant concern in many communities. Both Mercy Health and University Hospitals offer mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient care. Residents should research the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups in their area. The need for mental health services continues to grow, and it is essential to understand the resources available.

**Pharmaceutical Access: Pharmacy Availability**

Access to medications is a fundamental aspect of healthcare. Several pharmacies, including national chains and local pharmacies, serve the 44446 area. Patients should consider factors like prescription refill times, the availability of specialized medications, and the pharmacy's proximity to their homes or doctors' offices.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Determining an "Overall Health Score" is inherently complex, requiring a synthesis of various factors. Based on the available information, here's a tentative assessment for residents of the 44446 ZIP code:

* **Accessibility:** The area benefits from the presence of both regional hospitals (St. Elizabeth Youngstown, UH Portage) and community hospitals (Trumbull Regional Medical Center), offering multiple points of access to care. The availability of telehealth services further enhances accessibility.
* **Hospital Quality:** The CMS star ratings for the flagship hospitals are currently at 3 stars, which suggests that the quality of care is adequate, but there is room for improvement. Residents should research specific departments and programs based on their needs.
* **Specialty Care:** Access to specialized care is available through the regional hospitals, including cancer centers, cardiac care, and orthopedic services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary, and it is recommended to check online resources for the most up-to-date information.
* **Mental Health Services:** Mental health services are available through the regional hospitals, but the demand for these services is high.
* **Overall Score:** Given the factors discussed, the overall health score for residents near the 44446 ZIP code is **Average to Good**. The availability of multiple hospitals and specialized services provides a solid foundation, but the CMS ratings and the need to research specific programs and specialists suggest that there is room for improvement. Residents should actively research their healthcare options, consider their individual needs, and prioritize the factors most important to them when making healthcare decisions. The ever-changing nature of healthcare requires continuous monitoring and adaptation to ensure the best possible health outcomes.