15447, Isabella, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15447, Isabella, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Connellsville, PA (ZIP Code 15447)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Connellsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15447), access to quality medical care is a critical concern. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals in the vicinity, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth offerings. This analysis aims to empower informed decision-making for individuals and families seeking the best possible care.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Connellsville doesn't boast a vast array of hospitals. The primary players for residents in this area include facilities in Uniontown, Greensburg, and Pittsburgh. Distance, travel time, and the specific needs of the patient will influence the optimal choice.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA)**

While not immediately local, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, located in Pittsburgh, is a flagship hospital within the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system. This hospital is a major referral center and a significant draw for specialized care. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced cardiac care, transplant programs, and a renowned cancer center. The hospital is a teaching facility, contributing to its reputation for cutting-edge medical practices and research. However, accessing this facility from Connellsville involves a drive of approximately one hour, making it less convenient for routine care or emergencies.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA)**

Also part of the UPMC system, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, also in Pittsburgh, is a dedicated women's hospital. It offers specialized care for obstetrics, gynecology, and related women's health issues. While not a general hospital, its proximity to Connellsville (approximately one hour's drive) makes it a significant option for women's health needs. Magee-Womens Hospital also holds a 4-star CMS rating.

**Excela Health Frick Hospital (Mount Pleasant, PA)**

Excela Health Frick Hospital, located in Mount Pleasant, is closer to Connellsville than the Pittsburgh hospitals, with a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes. It is a community hospital offering a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and various medical specialties. Frick Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Frick Hospital's emergency department is a critical resource for the Connellsville area. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room. Excela Health also offers telehealth services, including virtual visits for certain conditions, providing convenient access to care.

**WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital (Uniontown, PA)**

WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital, located in Uniontown, is another important option for residents of Connellsville, with a drive time of around 20 minutes. This hospital provides a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient care, and a range of specialty clinics. The hospital's CMS rating is not publicly available.

Uniontown Hospital's emergency department is a key resource for the region. Like other hospitals, checking current ER wait times before arrival is recommended. The hospital also offers telehealth options, expanding access to specialists and consultations.

**Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital (Greensburg, PA)**

Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, located in Greensburg, is a larger facility than Frick Hospital. It offers a more extensive range of specialty services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and cancer treatment. The drive from Connellsville is approximately 45 minutes. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Westmoreland Hospital's emergency department is a critical resource, and wait times can vary. The hospital also provides telehealth services, including virtual visits for certain conditions.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration for residents needing immediate medical attention. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room. Hospitals typically display this information on their websites or through third-party services. Shorter wait times can indicate a more efficient emergency department and faster access to care.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The hospitals near Connellsville offer varying levels of specialized care. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh are leading referral centers with advanced specialty programs. Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital offers a broader range of specialties than Frick Hospital. WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital provides a variety of specialty clinics to address specific medical needs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important for accessing healthcare. Hospitals in the area are expanding their telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for certain conditions. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and managing chronic conditions. UPMC, Excela Health, and WVU Medicine all offer telehealth options, expanding access to care for Connellsville residents.

**Overall Health Score: A Comparative Assessment**

Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" involves weighing various factors. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, while further away, offer the highest level of specialized care and have strong CMS ratings. However, the travel time may be a significant barrier for some.

Excela Health Frick Hospital and WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital provide more convenient access for routine care and emergencies. Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, in Greensburg, offers a broader range of specialty services than Frick Hospital. The CMS ratings of these hospitals are lower than the Pittsburgh hospitals.

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of Connellsville is therefore a nuanced assessment. It depends on the individual's needs, the urgency of the medical situation, and their willingness to travel.

**Recommendations for Connellsville Residents**

* **For Emergencies:** Assess current ER wait times at the closest hospitals (Frick Hospital and Uniontown Hospital) before proceeding.
* **For Specialized Care:** Consider UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside or UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh, even with the longer travel time.
* **For Routine Care:** Utilize the closest hospitals, such as Frick Hospital and Uniontown Hospital.
* **For Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options offered by all hospitals for convenient access to care.
* **Research and Compare:** Before choosing a hospital, research the specific services offered and compare patient reviews and satisfaction ratings.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near Connellsville, PA, offers a range of options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. By considering factors like CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This "Overall Health Score" review provides a starting point for this critical assessment, empowering individuals to navigate the healthcare system effectively.