45174, Terrace Park, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 45174, Terrace Park, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 45174

This review assesses the overall health and healthcare accessibility in the vicinity of ZIP code 45174, encompassing the towns of Sardinia and Russellville, Ohio, and surrounding areas. The analysis focuses on hospital quality, accessibility, and the availability of specialized services, drawing on data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), publicly available hospital websites, and other reliable sources. Due to the rural nature of the area, residents often rely on hospitals located further afield, necessitating a broader geographical scope for this assessment.

**Hospital Landscape: Key Players and CMS Star Ratings**

The closest hospitals to 45174 are generally smaller, community-based facilities. However, residents often travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities like Cincinnati, Ohio, for more specialized care. The CMS star rating system provides a valuable, albeit simplified, snapshot of hospital quality. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are based on a variety of factors, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency.

One of the prominent healthcare providers serving the region is Mercy Health. Mercy Health operates several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital in Cincinnati, approximately an hour's drive from 45174, consistently receives a good CMS star rating, often hovering around four stars. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a well-regarded cardiology program and a robust emergency department.

Another major player is the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC), also located in Cincinnati. UCMC is a Level I trauma center and a teaching hospital, known for its advanced medical capabilities and research focus. UCMC typically scores well in the CMS star ratings, often achieving four or five stars, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. However, the hospital’s large size and complexity can sometimes translate to longer wait times in the emergency room.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Indicator**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Long wait times can indicate overcrowding, staffing shortages, or inefficiencies in the emergency department. Data on ER wait times is publicly available through various sources, including hospital websites and the CMS Hospital Compare website.

Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital generally reports relatively moderate ER wait times, often within the national average. This is a positive indicator for residents seeking timely care. UCMC, as a Level I trauma center, often experiences higher patient volumes, which can lead to longer wait times. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours or during periods of high community need.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Advanced Care**

The availability of specialized medical services is essential for treating complex conditions. Hospitals in the Cincinnati area offer a wide range of specialty centers.

Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital boasts a strong cardiology program, including advanced cardiac imaging and interventional procedures. They also have specialized centers for cancer care, women's health, and orthopedic surgery.

UCMC is renowned for its comprehensive specialty centers, including a nationally recognized transplant program, a leading cancer center, and specialized units for neurological disorders and stroke care. The hospital’s affiliation with the University of Cincinnati also provides access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

For residents in the 45174 area, access to these specialized services necessitates travel. However, the proximity of Cincinnati provides a significant advantage compared to more rural areas with limited access to advanced medical care.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important in expanding healthcare access, particularly for rural communities. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience.

Both Mercy Health and UCMC have expanded their telehealth offerings in recent years. They provide virtual consultations for a variety of specialties, including primary care, mental health, and chronic disease management. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for residents of 45174, who may face challenges in traveling to distant medical facilities.

The adoption of telehealth varies depending on the individual patient and the type of care needed. However, the increasing availability of virtual care options is a positive trend, improving access to healthcare services for residents in the area.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. CMS uses patient survey data to assess how patients perceive their care. This includes measures of communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and overall hospital cleanliness.

Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital generally scores well in patient satisfaction surveys. Patients often report positive experiences with the staff and the overall quality of care.

UCMC, while offering advanced medical capabilities, sometimes receives mixed reviews regarding patient experience. The large size and complexity of the hospital can sometimes lead to challenges in communication and responsiveness. However, the hospital is actively working to improve patient satisfaction through various initiatives.

**Accessibility and Transportation Considerations**

Accessibility is a key factor for residents of 45174. The availability of transportation to medical facilities is crucial, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. Residents often rely on personal vehicles or family members for transportation to medical appointments. This can pose a challenge for those with limited resources or those living in remote areas.

Hospitals in Cincinnati are generally accessible by car, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours. Some hospitals offer shuttle services or transportation assistance programs for patients who need it.

**Community Health and Preventative Care**

Beyond hospital care, the overall health of the community is influenced by factors such as access to preventative care, healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity.

The 45174 area is largely rural, with limited access to some of these resources. Access to primary care physicians and preventative screenings may be a challenge for some residents.

Public health initiatives, such as those focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing chronic diseases, are essential for improving community health. Local health departments and community organizations play a vital role in providing these services.

**Financial Considerations: Insurance and Costs**

Healthcare costs and insurance coverage are major factors in determining access to care. The availability of affordable health insurance and the ability to navigate the healthcare system are essential for all residents.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has expanded access to health insurance, but many residents may still face challenges in affording healthcare services. The cost of care, including hospital stays, specialist visits, and medications, can be a significant financial burden.

Hospitals in the Cincinnati area accept a variety of insurance plans. Patients should verify their insurance coverage before seeking care and inquire about financial assistance programs if needed.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 45174 is a mixed bag. While access to high-quality hospital care is available in nearby Cincinnati, the rural nature of the area presents challenges.

**Strengths:**

* **Access to Specialized Care:** Proximity to Cincinnati provides access to a wide range of specialty centers, including cardiology, cancer care, and transplant programs.
* **Good CMS Star Ratings:** Hospitals like Mercy Health-Anderson and UCMC often receive good CMS star ratings, indicating a commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The expansion of telehealth services by major healthcare providers improves access to care for residents in the area.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Travel Distance:** Residents often need to travel to Cincinnati for specialized care, which can be a barrier for some.
* **Limited Public Transportation:** The lack of public transportation options can make it difficult for some residents to access healthcare services.
* **Patient Experience Variability:** While hospitals generally provide good care, patient experience ratings can vary, particularly at larger facilities like UCMC.
* **Rural Health Challenges:** The rural nature of the area may limit access to preventative care, healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity.

**Recommendations:**

* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the continued expansion of telehealth services to improve access to care for residents in the area.
* **Improve Transportation Options:** Explore options for improving transportation to medical facilities, such as shuttle services or partnerships with community organizations.
* **Enhance Preventative Care:** Support initiatives that promote preventative care, healthy lifestyles, and early detection of diseases.
* **Increase Community Awareness:** Educate residents about available healthcare resources, insurance options, and financial assistance programs.

The overall health score for residents near 45174 is contingent on the ability to overcome these accessibility challenges. By prioritizing access to specialized care, expanding telehealth services, and addressing transportation limitations, the community can work towards improving the overall health and well-being of its residents. Continuous monitoring of hospital quality, patient experience, and healthcare access is essential to ensure that residents receive the best possible care.