15558, Salisbury, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15558, Salisbury, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15558

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near ZIP code 15558 (which encompasses the area around Rockwood, Pennsylvania), 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 capabilities. It's designed to offer a clear picture of the available healthcare options, enabling informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Choice**

The immediate vicinity of Rockwood, PA, is primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. While the area itself might not boast a large concentration of major medical centers, residents have access to a selection of facilities offering a range of services. The "Overall Health Score" considers the quality of these facilities, recognizing that proximity is a key factor in accessing timely care.

**Flagship Facilities and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a valuable metric for hospital quality through its star rating system. This system evaluates hospitals based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally demonstrate a higher level of overall performance.

One of the most significant hospitals serving the region is UPMC Somerset. UPMC Somerset has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating indicates a hospital that performs at an average level compared to other hospitals in the nation. While not a top-tier rating, it still signifies a commitment to quality and patient care.

Another important facility is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, located in Johnstown, PA, roughly an hour's drive from Rockwood. Conemaugh has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of a hospital's ability to provide timely care. Shorter wait times generally translate to quicker access to medical attention, which can be vital in emergency situations.

Unfortunately, specific, publicly available data on real-time ER wait times for the hospitals near 15558 is not consistently provided by CMS or other public sources. Therefore, it is essential to check current wait times on hospital websites or through third-party apps like Google Maps.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Beyond General Care**

Beyond general medical care, the availability of specialized services is a significant factor in a hospital's overall health score. These services cater to specific medical needs, offering advanced treatments and expertise.

UPMC Somerset offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab. They also offer comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy.

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center boasts a more extensive range of specialized services. They have a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and specialized units for cardiology, oncology, and behavioral health. Conemaugh also has a dedicated women's health center.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. These services allow patients to access medical care remotely, improving access to specialists and reducing the need for travel.

UPMC Somerset offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in remote locations.

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center also provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. They have expanded their telehealth offerings in recent years.

**Patient Experience: A Vital Component**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of overall health. This encompasses factors such as communication with doctors and nurses, the cleanliness of the hospital, and the overall comfort of the patient. CMS uses patient surveys to measure these factors.

Both UPMC Somerset and Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center receive patient feedback through CMS surveys. These surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience, helping hospitals identify areas for improvement.

**Specific Considerations for 15558 Residents**

Residents of the 15558 ZIP code face unique considerations when accessing healthcare. The rural nature of the area may present challenges related to transportation and access to specialists.

The distance to larger medical centers like Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center may necessitate longer travel times. Therefore, residents should carefully consider the availability of local services and the need for specialized care.

**Factors to Consider in Your Decision**

When choosing a hospital, residents near 15558 should consider several factors:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital is a critical factor, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Services:** Does the hospital offer the specialized care you or your family members may need?
* **ER Wait Times:** Evaluate current wait times.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Can you access care remotely through telehealth services?
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews to gain insights into the experiences of others.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Consider the CMS star ratings as an indicator of overall quality.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available information, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 15558 is best understood as a spectrum. UPMC Somerset provides a good level of local care, with a 3-star rating and a range of services. Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, with a 3-star rating and a broader array of specialized services, offers a higher level of care but requires a longer travel time.

**Recommendations**

Residents near 15558 should prioritize the following:

* **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** Having a primary care physician is essential for preventative care and referrals to specialists.
* **Research Local Options:** Thoroughly research the services offered by both UPMC Somerset and Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center.
* **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in travel time when considering the need for specialized care.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options to improve access to care and reduce travel.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep abreast of changes in hospital services and ratings.

This "Overall Health Score" review is intended to provide a general overview. Individual healthcare needs vary, and it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about your health.