45846, Fort Recovery, Ohio Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 45846, Fort Recovery, Ohio is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Delphos, Ohio (ZIP Code 45846)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to Delphos, Ohio (ZIP Code 45846), offering a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. The assessment considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, telehealth capabilities, and other key performance indicators. Due to the rural nature of the area, the primary focus will be on facilities within a reasonable driving distance.

**The CMS Star Rating System: A Baseline**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, a publicly available tool to assess overall quality. This rating, ranging from one to five stars, is based on performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. While not the sole determinant of quality, the CMS star rating serves as a valuable starting point for comparison.

**Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center (Lima, OH): A Regional Powerhouse**

Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, Ohio, is a significant regional healthcare provider, located approximately 20 miles from Delphos. St. Rita’s is a flagship hospital, offering a comprehensive range of services. As of the latest available data, St. Rita's holds a **three-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects a solid, but not exceptional, performance across the evaluated metrics.

**St. Rita's: Strengths and Weaknesses**

St. Rita's boasts a Level II Trauma Center, crucial for handling severe injuries and emergencies. They also have a dedicated Heart and Vascular Institute, offering specialized cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital's cancer center provides comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

However, like many hospitals, St. Rita's faces challenges. The CMS data often highlights areas for improvement, such as patient experience scores and readmission rates for certain conditions. While specific wait times fluctuate, ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party platforms before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services at St. Rita's**

Beyond the trauma center and heart institute, St. Rita's offers a range of specialty services. These include a comprehensive women's health center, a dedicated orthopedic center, and a behavioral health unit. The hospital also provides advanced imaging services, including MRI, CT scans, and nuclear medicine. St. Rita’s has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits for certain specialties and follow-up appointments. However, the availability of telehealth services may vary depending on the specific physician and insurance coverage.

**Blanchard Valley Hospital (Findlay, OH): A Further Option**

Approximately 45 miles from Delphos, Blanchard Valley Hospital in Findlay, Ohio, presents another healthcare option. Blanchard Valley Hospital currently holds a **four-star rating** from CMS, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to St. Rita’s. This higher rating suggests better performance in areas like patient experience and safety.

**Blanchard Valley: Strengths and Specializations**

Blanchard Valley Hospital is known for its strong focus on patient-centered care. They have a dedicated obstetrics and gynecology department, offering comprehensive women's health services. The hospital also provides specialized care in areas such as orthopedics, cardiology, and oncology. Their emergency department is generally well-regarded, with wait times often reported to be shorter than those at larger regional hospitals.

**Telehealth at Blanchard Valley**

Blanchard Valley Hospital has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings. They provide virtual visits for a variety of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and certain specialist consultations. The hospital's telehealth platform aims to increase access to care for patients in rural areas and reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Van Wert Health (Van Wert, OH): A Local Community Hospital**

Closer to Delphos, approximately 15 miles away, is Van Wert Health in Van Wert, Ohio. Van Wert Health is a smaller community hospital, providing essential healthcare services to the local population. Due to its size, the hospital's CMS star rating may be less reflective of its overall performance compared to larger hospitals.

**Van Wert Health: Community Focus**

Van Wert Health focuses on providing accessible and personalized care to its community. They offer a range of services, including primary care, emergency services, and various specialty clinics. The hospital has a strong emphasis on patient satisfaction and community outreach.

**Van Wert Health: Limited Data and Accessibility**

As a smaller hospital, Van Wert Health may have limited publicly available data compared to larger regional facilities. Information on specific wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings may be less readily available. It's advisable to contact the hospital directly or consult with a primary care physician for detailed information.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in urgent situations. While specific wait times fluctuate, they are often publicly reported. Websites like Google and third-party platforms provide estimated wait times for ERs. However, these are estimates and can change based on patient volume and the severity of cases. It's always recommended to call ahead or check online for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Care Availability: Beyond the Basics**

The availability of specialized care is another vital aspect of hospital assessment. Patients with specific medical needs may require access to specialized physicians and facilities. Both St. Rita's and Blanchard Valley Hospital offer a broader range of specialty services compared to Van Wert Health. However, the specific availability of specialists can vary, and it's crucial to verify the availability of the required specialists before seeking care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access healthcare remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Both St. Rita's and Blanchard Valley Hospital have invested in telehealth platforms, offering virtual visits for a variety of conditions. However, the availability and scope of telehealth services can vary.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available data, here's a general assessment of the hospitals near Delphos, Ohio:

* **Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center:** A regional powerhouse with a three-star CMS rating, offering comprehensive services and a Level II Trauma Center. ER wait times can vary. Strong specialty centers, including heart and cancer. Telehealth offerings are expanding.
* **Blanchard Valley Hospital:** A four-star CMS-rated hospital known for patient-centered care and a strong women's health program. Generally shorter ER wait times. Actively expanding telehealth services.
* **Van Wert Health:** A local community hospital offering essential services. Limited publicly available data. Strong community focus.

**Recommendations**

For those residing near Delphos, Ohio, the choice of hospital depends on individual needs and preferences. For emergency situations or complex medical needs, St. Rita’s Medical Center is a good option. Blanchard Valley Hospital offers a higher CMS rating and may be a good choice for those seeking a patient-centered approach. Van Wert Health provides local access to care. Patients should consider their specific medical needs, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialists when making their decision. Always verify wait times and service availability before seeking care.