15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15137, North Versailles, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near McKeesport, PA (ZIP Code 15137)

Choosing the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health crisis. For residents of McKeesport, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding area (ZIP code 15137), several healthcare options exist, each with its strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on key factors like quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services, helping you make an informed choice.

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

The healthcare landscape near 15137 is dominated by a few major players, primarily reflecting the influence of the UPMC and AHN (Allegheny Health Network) systems. These large integrated networks offer a wide range of services, but proximity and specific needs will dictate the best fit.

**UPMC McKeesport: A Local Anchor with Challenges**

UPMC McKeesport, a hospital within the UPMC system, is the closest full-service hospital to the 15137 ZIP code. It serves as a vital community resource, offering a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and various medical specialties. However, UPMC McKeesport faces challenges. Its CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating, a widely used indicator of hospital quality, is currently [**Insert Current CMS Star Rating - *This information is dynamic and needs to be verified. Check the CMS website for the most up-to-date rating.*]**. This rating reflects a complex evaluation of patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Residents should be aware of this rating and consider it alongside other factors.

**Emergency Room Considerations: Wait Times and Patient Flow**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially in urgent situations. While specific wait times fluctuate, data from the CMS Hospital Compare website provides some insights. [**Insert Specific Data - *Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for ER wait time data for UPMC McKeesport and other relevant hospitals. Include average wait times for both arrival to doctor and departure.*]**. Longer wait times can indicate higher patient volume or potential staffing issues. Patients should also consider the severity of their condition and whether a less crowded urgent care facility might be appropriate for less critical needs.

**UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside: Flagship Hospitals Further Afield**

For more complex medical needs, residents may consider traveling to UPMC's flagship hospitals in Pittsburgh. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, both located approximately [**Insert Distance and Travel Time - *Check Google Maps for accurate distances and travel times from 15137.*]** from McKeesport, offer a wider range of specialized services and typically boast higher CMS star ratings. These hospitals are known for their advanced technology, research capabilities, and access to leading specialists. Both have a CMS star rating of [**Insert Current CMS Star Rating for UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside - *This information is dynamic and needs to be verified. Check the CMS website for the most up-to-date rating.*]**. However, the added travel time and potential for higher costs must be factored into the decision-making process.

**AHN's Presence: Forbes Hospital and Other Options**

The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) also provides healthcare options for the 15137 area. Forbes Hospital, located in Monroeville, is a significant AHN facility. It's located approximately [**Insert Distance and Travel Time - *Check Google Maps for accurate distances and travel times from 15137.*]** from McKeesport and offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized centers. Its CMS star rating is [**Insert Current CMS Star Rating for Forbes Hospital - *This information is dynamic and needs to be verified. Check the CMS website for the most up-to-date rating.*]**. AHN also operates various outpatient facilities and physician practices in the area, providing additional access to care.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Expertise**

The availability of specialized centers is a critical factor for patients with specific medical needs. Both UPMC and AHN hospitals offer specialized centers for cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other areas. UPMC Presbyterian, for example, is renowned for its transplant programs and cancer care. Forbes Hospital has a well-regarded heart and vascular institute. Patients should research the specific specialties offered by each hospital and consider the expertise and experience of the medical staff.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. Both UPMC and AHN have expanded their telehealth offerings in recent years. [**Insert Specific Data - *Research and include specific data on telehealth services offered by UPMC and AHN hospitals near 15137. This might include the number of telehealth visits, types of services offered, and ease of access.*]**. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide greater flexibility for patients.

**Patient Experience: Beyond the Numbers**

While CMS star ratings and ER wait times are important, patient experience is also a critical factor. This includes the quality of communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall level of comfort and support provided. Patient satisfaction surveys, often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources like Healthgrades or US News & World Report, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences.

**Specific Considerations for the 15137 Community**

The demographics and health needs of the 15137 community should also be considered. The prevalence of specific chronic diseases, the age distribution of the population, and socioeconomic factors can influence healthcare needs. Residents should consider these factors when choosing a hospital and ensure that the chosen facility can meet their specific needs.

**Financial Considerations: Costs and Insurance**

Healthcare costs can vary significantly between hospitals and services. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand their out-of-pocket expenses before receiving care. Hospitals are required to provide price transparency information, but navigating this information can be challenging. Patients should proactively inquire about costs and explore options for financial assistance if needed.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, here's a tentative "Overall Health Score" assessment for the hospitals near 15137. **Please note that this is a general assessment and requires individual research based on specific needs.**

* **UPMC McKeesport:** While a crucial local resource, the lower CMS star rating and potential ER wait times warrant careful consideration. It's a good option for basic care and emergencies but may not be the best choice for complex medical needs. **Score: [Insert a score out of 10, with a brief justification based on the information above. For example: 6/10 - Good for local access, but quality concerns need to be addressed.]**
* **UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside:** Offering higher quality care and specialized services, but the travel distance and potential costs are drawbacks. Ideal for complex medical needs. **Score: [Insert a score out of 10, with a brief justification based on the information above. For example: 8/10 - Excellent quality, but travel and cost are factors.]**
* **Forbes Hospital (AHN):** A solid option with a good range of services and a reasonable location. Offers a good balance of quality and accessibility. **Score: [Insert a score out of 10, with a brief justification based on the information above. For example: 7.5/10 - Good balance of quality and access.]**

**Disclaimer:** This "Overall Health Score" is a general assessment based on publicly available information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should consult with their physicians and conduct their own research to determine the best healthcare options for their individual needs. Hospital ratings and data are constantly changing. Always verify information with the source before making healthcare decisions.