15532, Boynton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15532, Boynton, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15532 (Bedford, PA)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Bedford, PA (ZIP code 15532), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions. This analysis considers factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, offering a snapshot of each facility's strengths and weaknesses.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The primary hospitals serving Bedford County residents are geographically dispersed, impacting access and choice. The closest options are often community hospitals, with larger regional medical centers a longer drive away. This review will prioritize facilities within a reasonable radius, considering their relevance to the local population.

**UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital:**

UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital, located directly in Bedford, PA, is a central healthcare provider for the area. While specific CMS star ratings for this facility are not consistently available, its affiliation with the UPMC system provides a degree of assurance regarding quality standards. UPMC is a large, integrated healthcare system, and this affiliation often translates to access to resources and expertise.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital are a crucial factor for residents. While specific real-time data fluctuates, the hospital’s performance in this area is generally considered average for a community hospital. Patients should anticipate potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

UPMC Bedford Memorial offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They have a strong focus on primary care and offer various outpatient services, including physical therapy and diagnostic imaging. Telehealth services are available, connecting patients with specialists and providing remote consultations, a valuable asset for a rural community. The hospital's commitment to telehealth is important for expanding access to care.

**Conemaugh Nason Medical Center (Roaring Spring, PA):**

Conemaugh Nason Medical Center, located in Roaring Spring, PA, represents another option for residents near Bedford. While not directly in Bedford, it serves a significant portion of the surrounding communities. As a community hospital, its CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. While specific ratings fluctuate, it is important to check the most current CMS data.

Emergency room wait times at Conemaugh Nason are a critical factor for patients. Like other community hospitals, wait times can vary depending on the volume of patients. Patients should inquire about current wait times or consider alternative options if the wait is excessively long.

Conemaugh Nason provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and diagnostic imaging. They focus on providing comprehensive care to the local community, including primary care and specialized services. Telehealth services are likely available, connecting patients with specialists and expanding access to care.

**Additional Considerations: Larger Regional Hospitals:**

While not immediately local, several larger hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer more specialized services. These facilities often have higher CMS star ratings and a broader range of expertise.

**UPMC Altoona (Altoona, PA):**

UPMC Altoona, located in Altoona, PA, is a major regional medical center. As part of the UPMC system, it benefits from the resources and expertise of a large healthcare network. UPMC Altoona typically receives strong CMS star ratings, reflecting a commitment to quality and patient safety.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Altoona can vary depending on the volume of patients. As a larger facility, it often handles a higher patient load. Patients should check current wait times before arriving.

UPMC Altoona offers a comprehensive range of specialties, including advanced cardiac care, cancer treatment, and trauma services. It is a regional referral center, providing specialized care not always available at smaller community hospitals. Telehealth services are well-developed, connecting patients with specialists and offering remote monitoring options.

**Geisinger Lewistown Hospital (Lewistown, PA):**

Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, located in Lewistown, PA, is another regional option. Geisinger is a large, integrated healthcare system known for its innovative approach to healthcare delivery. It typically receives strong CMS star ratings, reflecting a commitment to quality and patient safety.

Emergency room wait times at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital can fluctuate. Patients should check current wait times before arriving.

Geisinger Lewistown Hospital offers a range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. It is a regional referral center, providing specialized care to the surrounding communities. Telehealth services are a significant focus for Geisinger, providing patients with convenient access to care.

**Assessing Key Metrics:**

**CMS Star Ratings:** CMS star ratings are a crucial indicator of hospital quality. These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, assess hospitals on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Higher star ratings generally indicate better quality of care.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. Shorter wait times can improve patient outcomes and reduce stress. Patients should inquire about current wait times or consider alternative options if the wait is excessively long.

**Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is crucial for patients with complex medical needs. Regional referral centers often offer a broader range of specialized services.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access specialists remotely, reducing travel time and improving access to care.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment, considering the factors above. No single score can perfectly reflect the complexities of healthcare. The best hospital for an individual depends on their specific needs and preferences.

**UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital:** Offers convenient access to care, with a focus on primary care and a range of specialty services. Its affiliation with UPMC provides a degree of assurance regarding quality standards. ER wait times are a factor to consider.

**Conemaugh Nason Medical Center:** Provides another local option, offering a range of services to the community. CMS star ratings and ER wait times are key factors to assess.

**UPMC Altoona:** A regional referral center with a broader range of specialized services. Typically has strong CMS star ratings. Longer travel times and potentially longer ER wait times are factors to consider.

**Geisinger Lewistown Hospital:** Another regional option with a strong reputation for quality and innovation. Strong CMS star ratings and a focus on telehealth. Longer travel times and potentially longer ER wait times are factors to consider.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Residents of the 15532 ZIP code should consider their individual healthcare needs when choosing a hospital. Factors such as the severity of the condition, the need for specialized care, and travel distance should all be considered.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and less complex conditions:** UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital and Conemaugh Nason Medical Center are convenient options.
* **For specialized care:** UPMC Altoona and Geisinger Lewistown Hospital offer a broader range of specialties.
* **Always check current ER wait times:** Before heading to the ER, check wait times to minimize delays.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Explore telehealth options to access specialists and receive remote consultations.
* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history and needs.

This review provides a starting point for residents of the 15532 ZIP code to navigate the healthcare landscape. By considering the factors discussed, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Remember to verify the most current information, as hospital performance and services can change.