15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15728)

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Clymer, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15728), offering insights into key performance indicators to help you make informed decisions. The focus is on accessibility, quality of care, and patient experience.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus is on hospitals within a roughly 50-mile radius of Clymer, PA. This includes facilities in Indiana, Cambria, and Westmoreland counties, Pennsylvania. The review considers publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. It's crucial to remember that healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, and this review reflects data available at the time of writing.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

**UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) System:** UPMC has a significant presence in the region, with several hospitals impacting the health landscape near Clymer.

* **UPMC Altoona (Altoona, PA):** Located approximately 45 miles east of Clymer, UPMC Altoona is a major regional hospital. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating, indicating average performance based on quality, safety, and patient experience metrics. While not a top performer, it provides comprehensive services, including a Level II Trauma Center. ER wait times fluctuate but can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the time of day and patient volume. UPMC Altoona offers a broad range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical services. Telehealth services are available, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care.

* **UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA):** Although further afield (approximately 70 miles west), UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system. It consistently receives high ratings and is known for its specialized services. This hospital is renowned for its advanced cancer care, transplant programs, and complex surgical procedures. While not directly accessible to Clymer residents, it serves as a referral center for complex cases.

**Other Key Hospitals:**

* **Indiana Hospital (Indiana, PA):** Situated in Indiana, PA, this hospital is the closest major facility to Clymer (approximately 10 miles). It is part of the UPMC system. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Indiana Hospital provides a full range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized care. ER wait times can vary, but are generally shorter than larger hospitals, often under an hour. Telehealth services are expanding, with a focus on primary care and specialist consultations.

* **Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center (Johnstown, PA):** Located roughly 30 miles east of Clymer, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center is a major regional hospital. It has a 3-star CMS rating. Conemaugh offers comprehensive services, including a Level I Trauma Center. ER wait times can be variable, often in the 1-2 hour range. The hospital has a robust cardiology program and a cancer center. Telehealth services are available, facilitating remote patient monitoring and specialist consultations.

**Evaluating Key Metrics:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The CMS star rating system provides a general overview of hospital performance. A higher star rating (up to 5 stars) indicates better performance across several categories, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. It's important to note that these ratings are a snapshot in time and may not fully reflect all aspects of a hospital's quality.

* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients seeking immediate care. Longer wait times can indicate high patient volume, staffing shortages, or other operational challenges. The data presented is an average and can vary.

* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized centers, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, is crucial for patients with specific medical needs. These centers often offer advanced treatments and technologies.

* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access healthcare providers remotely, reducing travel time and improving access to care.

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Proximity to a hospital is a significant factor, especially in emergencies. Indiana Hospital offers the closest proximity to Clymer residents. However, the quality and availability of services at larger regional hospitals, like UPMC Altoona and Conemaugh Memorial, may be necessary for more complex medical needs. Transportation options, including personal vehicles and ambulance services, should be considered.

**Patient Experience:**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of overall healthcare quality. Factors such as communication with healthcare providers, responsiveness of staff, and the cleanliness of the facility significantly impact a patient's satisfaction. While this review does not delve into specific patient reviews, it is advisable to research patient feedback through sources like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey.

**Specialty Care Considerations:**

* **Cardiology:** Hospitals in the region offer cardiology services, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. Consider the availability of specialized cardiac centers and the expertise of cardiologists.

* **Oncology:** Cancer care is a significant healthcare need. The availability of cancer centers, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and support services is crucial. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a major referral center for cancer care.

* **Orthopedics:** Orthopedic services, including joint replacements, sports medicine, and fracture care, are available at several hospitals. Assess the expertise of orthopedic surgeons and the availability of rehabilitation services.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare delivery. Telehealth services can provide remote consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services varies among hospitals, so it is important to inquire about specific offerings.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The hospitals near Clymer, PA, offer a range of healthcare options, with varying levels of performance and specialization. Indiana Hospital provides the closest access to care. UPMC Altoona and Conemaugh Memorial offer more comprehensive services. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, although farther away, provides access to advanced specialty care.

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Clymer, PA, is best described as "Good with Variances". The quality of care is generally good, but the CMS star ratings indicate that there is room for improvement. ER wait times can be variable. Specialty services are available, but the level of expertise and technology may vary. Telehealth services are expanding, improving access to care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity for emergencies:** Indiana Hospital is the closest option for emergency care.

* **Consider specialization needs:** For specialized care, research the specific services offered by each hospital and the expertise of the medical staff.

* **Utilize telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth services to improve access to care and reduce travel time.

* **Research patient reviews:** Consult patient reviews and feedback to gain insights into patient experience.

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Discuss your healthcare needs and preferences with your primary care physician to determine the best hospital for your individual circumstances.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available data and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Hospital performance can change, so it's crucial to verify information with the hospitals directly.