15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near 15461 (Uniontown, PA)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 15461 (Uniontown, Pennsylvania), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to aid informed decision-making, but should not replace consultation with a healthcare professional.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Focused Choices**

The immediate vicinity of Uniontown, PA, offers a limited selection of hospitals. This review primarily concentrates on the two major players: WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital (formerly Uniontown Hospital) and Excela Health Frick Hospital, located a bit further afield but serving a broader regional population. The proximity to Morgantown, WV, and Pittsburgh, PA, also offers access to larger, more specialized facilities, which will be briefly considered.

**WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital: A Local Anchor**

WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital is the primary hospital serving the Uniontown area. As part of the WVU Medicine system, it benefits from the network's resources and expertise. However, it's crucial to examine its performance metrics to understand its strengths and weaknesses.

* **CMS Star Rating:** At the time of this review, WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital does not have a publicly available CMS star rating. This absence makes it difficult to gauge overall quality compared to hospitals that have been rated. This lack of rating should prompt a deeper dive into other quality indicators.

* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other public sources indicates that ER wait times at WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital can vary. The average wait time to see a provider should be considered when making healthcare choices. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most current ER wait time information.

* **Specialty Centers:** WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital also has a cancer center. The availability of these services within the community is a significant advantage.

* **Telehealth Capabilities:** WVU Medicine has invested heavily in telehealth across its system. WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital offers telehealth options, including virtual visits with specialists. This is particularly beneficial for residents in a rural area, reducing the need for travel. The types of telehealth services and availability should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Excela Health Frick Hospital: Expanding the Reach**

Excela Health Frick Hospital, located in Mount Pleasant, PA, is a regional hospital that draws patients from the Uniontown area. It offers a different set of services and a potentially different experience.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Excela Health Frick Hospital also does not have a publicly available CMS star rating at the time of this review. This lack of rating makes it difficult to gauge overall quality compared to hospitals that have been rated.

* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at Frick Hospital should be considered. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most current ER wait time information.

* **Specialty Centers:** Frick Hospital provides a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital has a comprehensive cardiac care program.

* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Excela Health has expanded its telehealth services, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. The availability and scope of these services should be verified with the hospital.

**Considerations for Specialty Care**

For certain specialized needs, patients in the 15461 area may need to travel to larger hospitals.

* **UPMC Presbyterian/UPMC Shadyside (Pittsburgh):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Uniontown, UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside offer a wide array of advanced specialty services, including transplant programs, comprehensive cancer care, and specialized surgical procedures. They are both high-performing hospitals.
* **UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh:** For pediatric care, UPMC Children's Hospital is a regional leader, offering a full spectrum of pediatric specialties.
* **WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Uniontown, WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital is a Level I trauma center and a comprehensive tertiary care facility, offering advanced treatments and specialized expertise.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth plays an increasingly vital role in healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Both WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital and Excela Health Frick Hospital offer telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. The specific types of telehealth services, such as virtual visits, remote monitoring, and specialist consultations, should be investigated. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. While data can fluctuate, it is important to check the most current information before seeking emergency care. Both WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital and Excela Health Frick Hospital have ERs, and understanding the average wait times can help patients make informed decisions. The ER wait time is affected by the number of patients, the severity of their conditions, and the staffing levels.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Given the available information, a precise "Overall Health Score" is difficult to assign due to the absence of CMS star ratings for the primary hospitals. However, the following observations can be made:

* **WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital:** Serves as a crucial local resource with a range of specialty services and telehealth options. The lack of a CMS star rating is a drawback, and patients should inquire about specific quality metrics.
* **Excela Health Frick Hospital:** Offers another option for care, with a different set of services and a broader reach. The lack of a CMS star rating is a drawback, and patients should inquire about specific quality metrics.
* **Specialty Care Access:** For specialized treatments, patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in Morgantown or Pittsburgh.
* **Telehealth Advantage:** Both local hospitals offer telehealth services, enhancing access to care.
* **ER Wait Time Importance:** Patients should proactively check ER wait times before seeking emergency care.

**Recommendations for Consumers**

* **Research and Compare:** Before choosing a hospital, research the specific services offered, including specialty centers and telehealth capabilities.
* **Inquire About Quality:** Ask about specific quality metrics, such as infection rates, patient satisfaction scores, and outcomes for specific procedures.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Verify current ER wait times before seeking emergency care.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for convenience and access to specialists.
* **Consult with Your Doctor:** Discuss your healthcare needs and preferences with your primary care physician to determine the best options for you.
* **Review Hospital Websites:** Regularly check the websites of the hospitals for updated information on services, wait times, and quality metrics.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near 15461 presents a balance of local convenience and regional access. WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital and Excela Health Frick Hospital provide essential services, while larger facilities in Morgantown and Pittsburgh offer specialized care. Patients should actively research their options, considering factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability to make informed decisions about their healthcare.