15333, Fredericktown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15333, Fredericktown, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Finleyville, PA (ZIP Code 15333)

Finleyville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of Washington County, presents residents with a unique set of healthcare needs. Access to quality medical care is paramount, and understanding the landscape of available facilities is crucial for informed decision-making. This review analyzes the key hospitals and healthcare providers within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 15333, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on various factors, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability.

**The Importance of Proximity and Choice**

The geographical location of Finleyville necessitates consideration of travel times. While Pittsburgh offers a wider array of specialized services, nearby hospitals in Washington and surrounding areas often serve as the primary points of care. Residents must weigh the benefits of specialized care against the convenience and accessibility of local facilities.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

**UPMC Mercy Hospital (Pittsburgh):** Located approximately 20 miles north of Finleyville, UPMC Mercy is a major player in the region's healthcare ecosystem. This hospital, a tertiary care center, is a flagship facility of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system. UPMC Mercy offers a broad range of services, including comprehensive cardiac care, neurosurgery, and trauma services. Unfortunately, it does not have a CMS star rating, as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) does not rate all hospitals. However, its reputation and affiliation with a major academic medical center like UPMC speaks to its commitment to quality. ER wait times can vary, but due to its high volume, patients should anticipate potentially longer waits. Telehealth services are available through the UPMC system, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh):** Another UPMC facility within a reasonable driving distance (approximately 25 miles), UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a well-regarded teaching hospital. Like Mercy, it does not have a CMS star rating. It is known for its cancer care, transplant services, and specialized surgical procedures. ER wait times are also variable, and the hospital's location in the city center can impact accessibility during peak hours. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside offers robust telehealth options, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Washington Hospital (Washington, PA):** Situated approximately 15 miles southwest of Finleyville, Washington Hospital is a key provider for residents in the immediate area. It is a community hospital offering a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, and general surgery. Washington Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally average level of performance based on various quality metrics. ER wait times at Washington Hospital are typically shorter than those at the larger Pittsburgh hospitals, providing more immediate access to care. The hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings to include virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**Jefferson Hospital (Jefferson Hills, PA):** Located approximately 20 miles north of Finleyville, Jefferson Hospital, part of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN), provides a wide range of services. It is known for its cardiac care, stroke center, and women's health services. Jefferson Hospital holds a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times can fluctuate, but are generally comparable to other hospitals in the area. AHN has invested in expanding telehealth services, making virtual appointments and remote care more accessible.

**Specialty Centers and Specialized Care**

Residents of Finleyville have access to a variety of specialty centers. UPMC Mercy and UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside offer world-class specialized care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Washington Hospital provides specialized services, including a cardiac catheterization lab. The proximity to Pittsburgh allows for access to specialized care for complex medical conditions.

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

ER wait times are a crucial consideration when evaluating healthcare options. Data suggests that wait times can vary significantly depending on the hospital and the time of day. Generally, smaller community hospitals like Washington Hospital tend to have shorter wait times than larger, urban hospitals. However, wait times are also influenced by the severity of a patient's condition and the overall patient volume. Patients experiencing a medical emergency should always proceed to the nearest emergency room.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in recent years, particularly in rural and suburban areas. UPMC and AHN have invested heavily in telehealth platforms, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. Washington Hospital is also expanding its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient convenience.

**Analyzing the Data: Overall Health Score Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near Finleyville, PA, must consider multiple factors. Proximity to major hospitals in Pittsburgh offers access to advanced specialized care, but longer travel times and potentially longer ER wait times are drawbacks. Washington Hospital provides more immediate access to care, with shorter wait times and a 3-star CMS rating. The availability of telehealth services across all major hospital systems is a significant advantage, improving access to care and convenience.

**Factors that Influence the Score:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** A higher CMS star rating generally indicates better quality of care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times provide quicker access to emergency care.
* **Specialty Center Availability:** Access to specialized care is crucial for complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services improve access to care and convenience.
* **Hospital Affiliation:** Affiliation with major health systems (UPMC, AHN) often indicates access to resources and advanced technologies.
* **Accessibility:** Ease of access, including travel time and traffic, is a critical factor.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available information, the "Overall Health Score" for residents near Finleyville, PA (ZIP code 15333) is **Good**. The area benefits from proximity to both major urban hospitals (UPMC Mercy, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside) offering specialized care and a local community hospital (Washington Hospital) providing more immediate access to care. The presence of telehealth services across the major hospital systems further enhances the overall health score.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Having a primary care physician is essential for preventive care and coordinating specialized services.
* **Understand Insurance Coverage:** Familiarize yourself with your insurance plan's network and coverage for specific hospitals and specialists.
* **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital, especially in emergency situations.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth services for routine appointments and follow-up care.
* **Research Hospital Performance:** Review CMS star ratings and other quality metrics to assess hospital performance.
* **Be Prepared for Emergencies:** Know the location of the nearest emergency room and have a plan in place for emergencies.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Finleyville, PA, provides residents with a range of options. While the proximity to Pittsburgh offers access to specialized care, the local community hospital provides more immediate access. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and prioritize their overall well-being. The increasing availability of telehealth services further enhances the overall health score for the region.