15541, Friedens, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15541, Friedens, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15541

Navigating healthcare choices can be overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 15541 (Everett, Pennsylvania) to assist in informed decision-making. This score considers factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability. Due to the rural nature of the area, the options are limited, but we will provide as comprehensive an analysis as possible.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus will be on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Everett, PA (ZIP code 15541). This will include facilities in Bedford, Blair, and Huntingdon counties, as well as those just across the border in Maryland, if they are within a practical travel radius. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, definitive number but a synthesis of various metrics, allowing for a nuanced understanding of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Key Metrics & Their Significance:**

Several key metrics are used to assess the hospitals. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system (1-5 stars) based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. This rating offers a standardized measure of overall hospital performance.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Shorter wait times generally indicate better resource management and patient flow.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is critical for addressing diverse healthcare needs.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas, providing access to care when in-person visits are difficult.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare signifies adherence to quality and safety standards.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores, often gathered through surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide insight into the patient experience.
* **Physician Availability:** The number and specialization of physicians on staff, as well as their board certifications, are important factors.

**Hospital Analysis:**

**1. UPMC Bedford (Bedford, PA):**

UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital is a key healthcare provider for the region. As of the most recent CMS data, UPMC Bedford holds a 3-star rating. This rating indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Bedford can vary, but data suggests they are generally within the national average. Patients should check the hospital's website or call for current wait times, as they fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume.
* **Specialty Services:** UPMC Bedford offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It is a designated stroke center.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC has been expanding its telehealth offerings, and UPMC Bedford likely participates in these programs. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for their specific needs.
* **Accreditation:** UPMC Bedford is accredited by The Joint Commission, indicating adherence to quality standards.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are available on the CMS Hospital Compare website and should be reviewed for insights into the patient experience.
* **Physician Availability:** UPMC Bedford has a medical staff comprising various specialists. The hospital's website provides a physician directory.

**Overall Health Score (UPMC Bedford):** A solid regional hospital with a good range of services and access to the UPMC network. The 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement, but it remains a valuable resource for the community.

**2. J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital (Huntingdon, PA):**

J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital is located approximately 40 minutes away from Everett, PA.

* **CMS Rating:** As of the latest CMS data, J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** Information on ER wait times should be available on their website or by calling the hospital.
* **Specialty Services:** J.C. Blair offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery.
* **Telehealth:** Patients should inquire about telehealth options for their specific needs.
* **Accreditation:** J.C. Blair is accredited by The Joint Commission, indicating adherence to quality standards.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are available on the CMS Hospital Compare website and should be reviewed for insights into the patient experience.
* **Physician Availability:** J.C. Blair has a medical staff comprising various specialists. The hospital's website provides a physician directory.

**Overall Health Score (J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital):** A comparable option to UPMC Bedford, offering similar services and quality ratings.

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

UPMC Altoona is located in Blair County, approximately an hour's drive from Everett. It is a larger hospital than UPMC Bedford and J.C. Blair, and therefore offers a broader range of services.

* **CMS Rating:** UPMC Altoona has a 2-star rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** Due to its larger size, ER wait times at UPMC Altoona may be longer than at smaller hospitals. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone.
* **Specialty Services:** UPMC Altoona boasts a comprehensive array of specialty services, including advanced cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery. It is a regional referral center.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC Altoona likely offers extensive telehealth services as part of the larger UPMC system.
* **Accreditation:** UPMC Altoona is accredited by The Joint Commission.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are available on the CMS Hospital Compare website.
* **Physician Availability:** UPMC Altoona has a large medical staff with a wide range of specialists.

**Overall Health Score (UPMC Altoona):** While the 2-star rating is a concern, UPMC Altoona provides access to more specialized care than the smaller hospitals. Its size and scope make it a good option for complex medical needs.

**4. Other Considerations:**

* **Smaller Clinics and Urgent Care Centers:** The area surrounding Everett, PA, may have smaller clinics and urgent care centers. These facilities can be valuable for non-emergency medical needs, but they typically do not offer the same level of services as hospitals.
* **Maryland Hospitals:** Depending on the specific location within the 15541 ZIP code, hospitals in Maryland may be accessible. These should be evaluated separately using the same metrics.

**Telehealth in Rural Healthcare:**

Telehealth plays a vital role in healthcare delivery in rural areas like Everett, PA. It helps bridge the gap between patients and specialists, reducing the need for long-distance travel. Hospitals in the region are increasingly adopting telehealth platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Patients should actively inquire about telehealth options when seeking care.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the "Overall Health Score," individuals should consider their specific healthcare needs and preferences. These include:

* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care, research the hospital's expertise in that area.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like proximity, patient reviews, and the hospital's overall environment.
* **Emergency Situations:** In an emergency, the closest hospital is often the best option.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 15541 offers a range of options, with UPMC Bedford and J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital serving as primary care providers. UPMC Altoona provides access to more specialized services, although its CMS rating warrants attention. The "Overall Health Score" is a starting point for evaluating these hospitals. Patients should conduct their own research, considering their individual needs and preferences, to make informed healthcare decisions. Telehealth is an increasingly important component of healthcare access in this rural area, and patients should actively seek out these services when appropriate. This information is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any medical concerns.