15490, White, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15490, White, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15490 (Uniontown, PA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Uniontown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15490), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the healthcare options in the area.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare in the region is **WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital**, located within the 15490 ZIP code. This hospital is the primary healthcare provider for the immediate area. As of late 2023, it holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it’s essential to delve deeper into specific areas to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical indicator of a hospital's responsiveness. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it's a key metric for gauging access to immediate care. Publicly available data, often accessible through hospital websites or third-party platforms, should be consulted for the most current information. Longer wait times can be indicative of high patient volume or resource constraints. It is essential to check current wait times before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is a crucial factor in assessing a hospital's overall health score. WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. The presence of a dedicated cancer center, for instance, indicates a commitment to comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services. The hospital also has a maternity unit.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

In the modern healthcare environment, telehealth plays an increasingly important role. It expands access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with specialists and remote monitoring programs for chronic conditions. These initiatives demonstrate the hospital's commitment to leveraging technology to improve patient care and convenience. Check the hospital website for a current list of telehealth services.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

While WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital is the primary hospital serving the 15490 ZIP code, residents may also consider hospitals in neighboring communities. Accessing care outside the immediate area may depend on the specific needs of the patient, insurance coverage, and the availability of specialized services.

**UPMC McKeesport Hospital:**

Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Uniontown, UPMC McKeesport Hospital is another option. UPMC McKeesport is a regional hospital that offers a wide range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. It is part of the UPMC network, which is known for its comprehensive healthcare system. UPMC McKeesport has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside:**

For more specialized care, residents may consider UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, located in Pittsburgh, approximately 50 miles northwest of Uniontown. This flagship hospital is a tertiary care center, offering advanced medical and surgical services. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the core metrics discussed above, several other factors contribute to a hospital's overall health score. These include:

* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide valuable insights into the patient experience.
* **Hospital Safety:** Measures of hospital safety, such as infection rates and medication errors, are critical indicators of quality of care.
* **Physician Quality:** The qualifications and experience of the medical staff are paramount.
* **Community Health Needs Assessment:** Hospitals are required to conduct community health needs assessments, which identify the health priorities of the community they serve.

**Accessibility and Affordability:**

Healthcare accessibility encompasses not only physical proximity but also affordability. Patients should understand their insurance coverage, including co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Hospitals often have financial assistance programs for patients who cannot afford care. The availability of transportation to and from the hospital is another factor to consider, especially for those without personal vehicles.

**Detailed Analysis of WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital:**

To provide a more in-depth analysis, let's examine WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital further.

* **Strengths:** The hospital's location within the 15490 ZIP code makes it the most accessible option for residents. The presence of a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, indicates a commitment to providing comprehensive care. The availability of telehealth services enhances access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.
* **Weaknesses:** The hospital's 3-star CMS rating suggests that there is room for improvement in certain areas of quality and patient experience. ER wait times should be monitored closely.
* **Opportunities:** The hospital could improve its CMS rating by focusing on areas identified as needing improvement, such as patient safety and readmission rates. Expanding telehealth services and investing in new technologies could further enhance patient care.
* **Threats:** Competition from other hospitals in the region, such as UPMC facilities, could pose a challenge. Changes in healthcare regulations and funding could also impact the hospital's operations.

**Comparison with UPMC McKeesport Hospital:**

UPMC McKeesport, while located further away, offers a comparable range of services. Its 3-star CMS rating is similar to WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital. The choice between the two hospitals may depend on factors such as insurance coverage, the specific needs of the patient, and personal preferences.

**Comparison with UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside:**

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, with its 4-star CMS rating, offers a higher level of care, particularly for complex medical conditions. However, its location in Pittsburgh makes it less convenient for residents of Uniontown. The decision to seek care at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside would likely depend on the specific medical needs of the patient and the availability of specialized services not offered locally.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score for 15490 Hospitals:**

Based on the available data, the overall health score for hospitals near ZIP Code 15490 is **moderate**. WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital, the primary provider, offers a range of services and is readily accessible. However, its 3-star CMS rating suggests areas for improvement. Residents have access to other options, including UPMC McKeesport and UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, which offer different levels of care and specialization.

**Recommendations:**

* **Residents should prioritize their healthcare needs:** Consider the specific medical conditions, insurance coverage, and personal preferences when choosing a hospital.
* **Research the latest data:** Consult hospital websites, third-party platforms, and patient reviews for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times, patient satisfaction, and other quality metrics.
* **Discuss options with a primary care physician:** Seek guidance from a primary care physician, who can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health needs.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Take advantage of telehealth services to enhance access to care and convenience.
* **Stay informed:** Keep abreast of changes in healthcare regulations and hospital performance metrics to make informed decisions about healthcare.