15362, Spraggs, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15362, Spraggs, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Washington, PA (ZIP Code 15362)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Washington, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15362), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help inform healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Washington, PA, is primarily served by two major hospital systems: Washington Health System (WHS) and UPMC. While other facilities exist within a reasonable driving distance, these two systems represent the primary access points for acute care, specialized services, and emergency care.

**Washington Health System: A Local Anchor**

Washington Health System (WHS) is the dominant healthcare provider within Washington County. Its flagship hospital, Washington Hospital, is the central hub for services.

**Washington Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Washington Hospital, a 250-bed facility, is the cornerstone of WHS. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Washington Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating**. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates average performance across various quality metrics. CMS evaluates hospitals on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience. It's important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance at Washington Hospital**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, data suggests that Washington Hospital's ED generally experiences wait times that are **in line with or slightly above the national average**. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, especially during peak hours. The hospital's ED is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including stroke, cardiac events, and trauma.

**Specialty Centers at Washington Hospital**

Washington Hospital offers a broad range of specialty services. Key areas of focus include:

* **Cardiology:** The hospital boasts a comprehensive cardiology program, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac rehabilitation.
* **Oncology:** The Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center provides cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and support services.
* **Orthopedics:** Orthopedic services encompass joint replacement, sports medicine, and general orthopedic surgery.
* **Women's Health:** The hospital offers obstetrics, gynecology, and specialized women's health services.
* **Behavioral Health:** Washington Hospital provides inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services.

**Telehealth at Washington Hospital**

WHS has embraced telehealth to expand access to care. Telehealth services are available for a variety of specialties, including behavioral health, cardiology, and primary care. The availability and specific services offered via telehealth may vary. Patients should check the WHS website or contact the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information.

**UPMC: A Regional Presence**

While not as geographically central as Washington Hospital, UPMC has a significant presence in the broader Pittsburgh region. Residents of Washington, PA, may consider UPMC facilities for certain specialized services or if they have existing relationships with UPMC providers.

**UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside: Flagship Facilities**

Two UPMC hospitals are particularly relevant: UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, both located in Pittsburgh, approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive from Washington, PA. These are larger, tertiary care centers with more extensive resources. Both hospitals have a **4-star rating** from CMS, indicating a higher level of performance compared to Washington Hospital.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance at UPMC Facilities**

ED wait times at UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Generally, these hospitals tend to experience **wait times comparable to or slightly longer than Washington Hospital**. Patients should anticipate potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers at UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside**

UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside are known for their advanced specialty services:

* **UPMC Presbyterian:** This hospital is a major transplant center and a leading provider of complex medical and surgical care. It houses specialized centers for cardiology, neurology, oncology, and trauma.
* **UPMC Shadyside:** This hospital excels in cancer care, women's health, and advanced surgical procedures. It also has a strong reputation for its heart and vascular services.

**Telehealth at UPMC**

UPMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits across a wide range of specialties. UPMC's telehealth platform provides access to specialists and primary care physicians. The specific services available via telehealth and the technology used may vary. Patients should consult the UPMC website or contact their providers for details.

**Other Healthcare Options**

While Washington Health System and UPMC are the primary players, other healthcare options exist within a reasonable driving distance:

* **Monongahela Valley Hospital (MVH):** Located in Monongahela, PA, MVH is part of the Highmark Health system. It offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialty clinics.
* **WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital:** Situated in Uniontown, PA, this hospital is part of the West Virginia University Medicine system. It provides a variety of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

When evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 15362, several factors must be weighed:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the sole determinant, CMS star ratings provide a valuable benchmark for hospital quality.
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** Prompt access to emergency care is crucial.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care is essential for managing complex medical conditions.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can enhance access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Accessibility and Proximity:** The distance to a hospital and the ease of access are critical considerations.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide insights into the overall experience of care.

**Summary and Recommendations**

For residents of Washington, PA (15362), the "Overall Health Score" assessment suggests:

* **Washington Hospital (WHS):** Serves as the primary local healthcare provider, offering a comprehensive range of services with a 3-star CMS rating. ED wait times are generally in line with or slightly above the national average.
* **UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside:** Offer access to advanced specialty care with 4-star CMS ratings, but require a longer travel time. ED wait times can be comparable to or slightly longer than Washington Hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Both WHS and UPMC offer telehealth options, expanding access to care.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and general medical needs:** Washington Hospital is the most convenient option.
* **For specialized care or complex medical conditions:** Consider UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Shadyside, recognizing the increased travel time.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Explore telehealth options offered by both WHS and UPMC to enhance access to care.
* **Research individual providers:** Before making healthcare decisions, research individual physicians and specialists to ensure they meet your specific needs.
* **Check real-time ED wait times:** Utilize online resources or call the hospitals directly to check current ED wait times, especially during peak hours.

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 15362 is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment based on available data and individual healthcare needs. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare.