44638, Lakeville, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 44638, Lakeville, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Minerva, OH (ZIP Code 44638)

Minerva, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Carroll and Stark counties, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents of ZIP code 44638 have access to a range of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and more, to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Proximity and Access: The Foundation of Care**

The primary consideration for residents is proximity. While Minerva itself doesn't boast a major hospital, several facilities are within a reasonable driving distance. This accessibility is crucial, especially during emergencies. The closest options include hospitals in Canton, Alliance, and Salem.

**A Deep Dive into the Contenders:**

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH): A Regional Powerhouse**

Aultman Hospital, located in Canton, is a major player in the region's healthcare scene. It holds a respectable **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, indicating a good overall performance. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Aultman's emergency room is generally busy, with **average wait times often fluctuating between 30-60 minutes**, according to data from the Hospital Compare website. This is a critical factor, especially in urgent situations.

Aultman boasts several specialized centers, including a comprehensive heart center, a cancer center, and a women's health pavilion. The heart center is particularly noteworthy, offering advanced cardiac procedures and a strong reputation for cardiovascular care. The cancer center provides a range of treatment options, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Aultman has also invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs, though specific utilization statistics are not readily available.

**Alliance Community Hospital (Alliance, OH): Serving the Community**

Alliance Community Hospital, another option for Minerva residents, is a smaller facility but still provides essential services. It currently holds a **3-star CMS rating**, reflecting a slightly lower overall performance compared to Aultman. The ER at Alliance Community Hospital typically experiences **shorter wait times, often under 30 minutes**, making it an attractive option for less critical emergencies.

Alliance Community Hospital offers a range of services, including general surgery, internal medicine, and a labor and delivery unit. It also has a focus on community outreach and preventative care programs. Telehealth options are available, although the scope and utilization are less extensive compared to larger hospitals.

**Salem Regional Medical Center (Salem, OH): Serving the East**

Salem Regional Medical Center, located further east, provides another option for residents. It has a **3-star CMS rating**, similar to Alliance Community Hospital. ER wait times are generally **within the 30-60 minute range**, varying based on the time of day and patient volume.

Salem Regional Medical Center offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a dedicated wound care center. They have also invested in advanced imaging technology. Telehealth services are available, focusing on specific specialties and follow-up appointments.

**Specialty Care Considerations:**

Beyond general hospital services, residents may need specialized care. For cardiology, Aultman Hospital's heart center is a strong contender. For cancer treatment, both Aultman and Salem Regional Medical Center offer oncology services. For orthopedic needs, all three hospitals offer orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation services.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant concern, particularly in emergencies. While wait times fluctuate, understanding the typical ranges is crucial. Aultman Hospital generally experiences longer wait times, while Alliance Community Hospital often has shorter waits. Residents should consider this factor when deciding where to seek emergency care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for rural communities. Aultman Hospital has the most developed telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring. Alliance Community Hospital and Salem Regional Medical Center also offer telehealth services, though the scope may be more limited.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Other Healthcare Resources**

Residents should also consider other healthcare resources, such as urgent care clinics and primary care physicians. Several urgent care clinics are located in the area, offering immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is also essential for preventative care and ongoing health management.

**Data Limitations and Considerations:**

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of available data. CMS star ratings are based on specific metrics and may not fully reflect the overall quality of care. ER wait times are averages and can vary. Patient experiences can also differ. Residents should consult with their physicians and consider their individual healthcare needs when making decisions.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data and considering the factors discussed, the hospitals near ZIP code 44638 receive the following "Overall Health Score" assessment:

* **Aultman Hospital:** **Good (4-star CMS rating, comprehensive services, longer ER wait times)**. Aultman is a strong choice for specialized care and complex medical needs, despite longer ER wait times.
* **Alliance Community Hospital:** **Fair (3-star CMS rating, shorter ER wait times, community focus)**. Alliance Community Hospital provides essential services with shorter ER waits, making it a good option for less critical situations.
* **Salem Regional Medical Center:** **Fair (3-star CMS rating, services, telehealth)**. Salem Regional offers a range of services and telehealth options, providing another choice for residents.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician:** This is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management.
* **Consider ER wait times:** When facing a medical emergency, consider the potential wait times at each hospital.
* **Research specialty services:** If you require specialized care, research the specific services offered by each hospital.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Utilize telehealth services for convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Read patient reviews:** Online reviews can provide valuable insights into patient experiences.
* **Stay informed:** Healthcare is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of ZIP code 44638 have access to a range of healthcare options. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the best options for their individual circumstances. The proximity of these hospitals and the services they offer provide a foundation for accessible healthcare in the Minerva area.