15413, Allison, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15413, Allison, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Connellsville, PA (ZIP Code 15413)

Navigating healthcare can be a daunting task. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Connellsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15413), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. This information is designed to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment. It considers publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable sources. It is important to remember that this is an overview and does not replace individual medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**The Landscape: Hospitals in the Vicinity**

The immediate area around Connellsville is primarily served by a few key hospitals, with access to larger facilities in nearby cities. Distance and ease of access are crucial considerations, especially in emergencies.

**Excela Health Frick Hospital (Mount Pleasant, PA): A Closer Look**

Excela Health Frick Hospital, located approximately 15 miles north of Connellsville, is a primary option for residents. It is a 167-bed facility and has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper.

Frick Hospital offers a range of services, including a comprehensive emergency department, surgical services, and specialized care units. The hospital’s emergency room wait times are a key consideration. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, it's advisable to check the hospital's website or use online tools that often provide estimated wait times. The hospital also has a dedicated Heart and Vascular Center, and a Cancer Care Center. Telehealth services are also available, though the breadth and depth of these services should be investigated on the hospital's website.

**UPMC Somerset (Somerset, PA): A Regional Player**

Approximately 30 miles east of Connellsville, UPMC Somerset offers another option. UPMC Somerset is a 114-bed facility and has a 3-star CMS rating. UPMC Somerset is part of the larger UPMC system, which can provide access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

UPMC Somerset has an emergency department, surgical services, and a range of specialty clinics. The hospital's website provides information on ER wait times. The hospital has a strong focus on orthopedics and rehabilitation. Telehealth services are available.

**UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA): Flagship Options**

For more complex medical needs, the hospitals within the UPMC system in Pittsburgh, roughly 50 miles west of Connellsville, become important considerations. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside are flagship hospitals within the UPMC system and offer a wider array of specialized services and advanced medical technologies.

UPMC Presbyterian, with its 600+ beds, is a major tertiary care center. It is a teaching hospital and has a 4-star CMS rating. UPMC Presbyterian is renowned for its expertise in cardiology, transplant services, and cancer care. ER wait times can be longer due to the hospital's high volume and the complexity of cases it handles.

UPMC Shadyside, with over 500 beds, is another major UPMC facility. It has a 4-star CMS rating. Shadyside is known for its comprehensive cancer center, neurosurgery, and women's health services. ER wait times should be monitored through the UPMC website.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Advanced Care**

The availability of specialty centers is a critical factor in assessing hospital quality. For residents near Connellsville, access to specialized care can be a deciding factor.

Frick Hospital has a dedicated Heart and Vascular Center, providing cardiology services. UPMC Somerset has a strong focus on orthopedics and rehabilitation. The UPMC hospitals in Pittsburgh offer access to a broad range of specialized centers, including comprehensive cancer centers, transplant centers, and advanced neurological care.

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

Emergency room wait times are a significant indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle urgent cases. Longer wait times can be a concern, especially in life-threatening situations.

Real-time ER wait times can fluctuate significantly. It is advisable to check hospital websites or use online tools that often provide estimated wait times. The volume of patients, the severity of cases, and staffing levels all contribute to wait times.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing chronic conditions. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas.

Both Frick Hospital and UPMC Somerset offer telehealth services. The UPMC system in Pittsburgh has a robust telehealth platform, providing access to specialists and virtual consultations. The specific services offered and the ease of use of the telehealth platform are important considerations.

**Patient Experience: Beyond the Numbers**

While CMS star ratings and wait times are important, patient experience is also crucial. Factors like communication with doctors and nurses, cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall patient experience contribute to a hospital's quality of care.

Patient reviews and online testimonials can provide insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals provide patient ratings and reviews. However, these reviews should be considered alongside other data points, as individual experiences can vary.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data, the following is an assessment of the hospitals in the area.

* **Excela Health Frick Hospital:** A solid option for residents near Connellsville, offering a range of services. The 3-star CMS rating indicates average performance, but it’s essential to consider ER wait times and the availability of specialized services.
* **UPMC Somerset:** Provides another option for residents, with a focus on orthopedics and rehabilitation. The 3-star CMS rating is similar to Frick Hospital, and ER wait times should be considered.
* **UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside (Pittsburgh):** Offer access to a wider range of specialized services and advanced medical technologies. The 4-star CMS ratings reflect higher quality. However, the longer travel distance and potentially longer ER wait times are factors to consider.

**Recommendations**

For residents near Connellsville, the choice of hospital will depend on individual needs and circumstances. For routine care and less complex medical issues, Frick Hospital or UPMC Somerset may be suitable options. For specialized care or more complex medical needs, the UPMC hospitals in Pittsburgh offer a broader range of services.

**Important Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Transportation:** Consider the distance and ease of access to each hospital, especially in emergencies.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like the hospital's reputation, patient reviews, and the availability of specific services that are important to you.

This review provides a starting point for making informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations and to discuss your specific health concerns.