44689, Wilmot, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 44689, Wilmot, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Wooster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44689)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Wooster, Ohio (ZIP code 44689), focusing on key metrics like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This analysis aims to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options available in the area, empowering informed decision-making.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Their Footprints**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Wooster area include Aultman Hospital, Wooster Community Hospital, and University Hospitals (UH) - all within a reasonable driving distance. Each institution offers a unique set of services and specialties, catering to a diverse range of medical needs. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making informed choices.

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

While not directly in Wooster, Aultman Hospital in Canton, approximately a 30-minute drive, serves as a significant regional resource. Aultman, a large, non-profit hospital, holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including mortality rates, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Aultman boasts a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, crucial for handling severe injuries and emergencies. Their cardiology program is particularly noteworthy, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures. The hospital also features specialized centers for cancer treatment, women's health, and orthopedic surgery.

**Emergency Department Performance:** Aultman's ER wait times are a critical factor. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, patients should anticipate potential wait times, particularly during peak hours. The hospital's website often provides updated information on current ER wait times.

**Telehealth Integration:** Aultman has embraced telehealth, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is especially valuable for follow-up appointments and managing chronic conditions, enhancing access to care for patients in the Wooster area.

**Wooster Community Hospital (Wooster, OH): The Local Hub**

Wooster Community Hospital, located directly within the 44689 ZIP code, is the primary healthcare provider for the immediate community. This hospital, affiliated with University Hospitals, offers a wide array of services, including emergency care, surgery, and a range of specialty clinics.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:** Wooster Community Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects its performance on a variety of quality indicators. Patient experience scores, gleaned from surveys, are a key component of this rating.

**Emergency Department Dynamics:** The ER at Wooster Community Hospital is a vital resource for the local population. Wait times can vary, and real-time data is readily available on the hospital's website. The hospital's ability to efficiently manage emergency cases is a critical factor in its overall health score.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** Wooster Community Hospital features specialized programs for various medical needs. These include cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health services. The availability of these specialized programs within the local community enhances access to care.

**University Hospitals (UH) Network: Broader Access**

Wooster Community Hospital's affiliation with the University Hospitals network provides access to a broader range of resources and expertise. The UH network includes several flagship hospitals, such as UH Cleveland Medical Center, which boast higher CMS star ratings and offer specialized services.

**UH Cleveland Medical Center (Cleveland, OH): A Regional Referral Center**

UH Cleveland Medical Center, a major teaching hospital, is a leading healthcare provider in the region. It has a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting its strong performance across various quality metrics. This hospital serves as a regional referral center, accepting complex cases and offering specialized treatments.

**Specialized Services:** UH Cleveland Medical Center is known for its advanced medical and surgical services, including transplant programs, cancer treatment, and cardiovascular care. The hospital's expertise in these areas makes it a valuable resource for patients with complex medical needs.

**Access and Distance:** The drive from Wooster to UH Cleveland Medical Center is approximately an hour, which should be considered when assessing access to care.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** The UH system has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. This expands access to care for patients in the Wooster area, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Hospitals**

Beyond the primary hospitals, several other factors contribute to the overall health score for the Wooster area. These include the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and outpatient services. The presence of urgent care centers and walk-in clinics also plays a role in providing accessible healthcare options.

**Primary Care Physician Availability:** The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. Assessing the ease of access to primary care providers in the Wooster area is an essential element of a comprehensive health score.

**Specialist Access:** The proximity and availability of specialists in areas such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology are also significant. The ability to access specialized care locally or within a reasonable distance is a key factor.

**Outpatient Services and Rehabilitation:** The availability of outpatient services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation centers, is crucial for recovery and maintaining overall health.

**Urgent Care and Walk-in Clinics:** Urgent care centers and walk-in clinics provide convenient access to care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Their presence in the community enhances access to healthcare and reduces the burden on emergency departments.

**Overall Health Score Assessment: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for the Wooster area is positive, with access to a range of healthcare options. Wooster Community Hospital serves as a local hub, while Aultman Hospital and the UH network provide access to specialized services and advanced care.

**Strengths:**

* **Local Access:** Wooster Community Hospital provides readily available emergency care and a variety of specialty services within the community.
* **Regional Resources:** The proximity of Aultman Hospital and the UH network expands access to advanced medical care and specialized treatments.
* **Telehealth Adoption:** The increasing use of telehealth by the hospitals enhances access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Areas for Consideration:**

* **ER Wait Times:** Monitoring and managing ER wait times at both Wooster Community Hospital and Aultman Hospital is crucial for ensuring timely access to care.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While the hospitals in the area have respectable ratings, continual improvement in quality metrics is essential.
* **Specialist Availability:** Assessing the availability and accessibility of specialists in various fields is essential for addressing the healthcare needs of the community.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right healthcare provider is a personal decision. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare options near Wooster, Ohio (ZIP code 44689). Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each hospital when making their healthcare decisions. Consulting with their primary care physician is also highly recommended. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each provider, individuals can make informed choices that support their overall health and well-being.