15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Clearfield, PA (ZIP Code 15832)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of Clearfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15832), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.

**The Landscape: Primary Players and Proximity**

The primary hospital serving the Clearfield area is **Penn Highlands Clearfield**, located directly within the ZIP code. Other options, while requiring a slightly longer drive, include **Penn Highlands DuBois** and **Mount Nittany Medical Center** in State College. These facilities form the core of the regional healthcare network.

**Penn Highlands Clearfield: A Closer Look**

Penn Highlands Clearfield, formerly known as Clearfield Hospital, is the closest option for residents. It's a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special funding due to its rural location and the essential services it provides. Unfortunately, as a critical access hospital, it does not receive a CMS star rating. This rating, issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a valuable indicator of overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Dynamics**

ER wait times are a crucial metric, especially in urgent situations. While specific, publicly available ER wait time data for Penn Highlands Clearfield is not consistently updated by CMS. However, anecdotal evidence and online reviews suggest that wait times can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or periods of high patient volume. It's always advisable to call ahead or utilize online resources, if available, to get an estimate. For Penn Highlands DuBois, the ER wait times are generally available on their website and updated regularly.

**Specialty Services at Penn Highlands Clearfield**

Penn Highlands Clearfield offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They have a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) and a labor and delivery unit. The hospital also provides rehabilitation services and a comprehensive wound care center. While the hospital offers a wide range of services, patients with complex or highly specialized needs may need to travel to larger facilities like Penn Highlands DuBois or Mount Nittany Medical Center.

**Penn Highlands DuBois: Expanding the Horizon**

Located approximately 30 minutes from Clearfield, Penn Highlands DuBois provides a broader spectrum of services. It is a larger facility than Penn Highlands Clearfield and is part of the same health system. Penn Highlands DuBois also does not have a CMS star rating.

**Specialty Centers at DuBois**

Penn Highlands DuBois boasts a more extensive network of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and a dedicated women's health center. It also offers advanced imaging services and a broader range of surgical specialties. This makes it a preferred choice for patients requiring more specialized care.

**ER Wait Times and Access at DuBois**

Penn Highlands DuBois typically has more robust resources to handle a higher volume of patients. ER wait times are generally available online and are usually shorter than those at Penn Highlands Clearfield, although this can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases.

**Mount Nittany Medical Center: A Further Option**

Approximately an hour's drive from Clearfield, Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College offers another healthcare option. Mount Nittany Medical Center is a well-regarded regional hospital. It is a larger facility and typically has a higher volume of patients.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators**

Mount Nittany Medical Center holds a CMS star rating, which is a valuable indicator of quality. While the exact rating can fluctuate, it generally reflects a commitment to patient safety and quality of care. This rating is based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, readmission rates, and patient satisfaction.

**Specialty Services at Mount Nittany**

Mount Nittany Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, neurology, oncology, and orthopedics. It also has a Level II Trauma Center, which is equipped to handle serious injuries. The hospital has a strong reputation for its cardiac and cancer care programs.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Both Penn Highlands and Mount Nittany Medical Center offer telehealth options, allowing patients to consult with providers remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health services. The availability and specific services offered through telehealth vary, so it's essential to check with the individual hospitals for details.

**Specific Telehealth Stats**

While specific telehealth usage statistics for the hospitals near Clearfield are not always publicly available, the trend is clear: telehealth is growing. Expect to find options for virtual visits with primary care physicians, specialists, and behavioral health providers. Check the hospital websites for specific details on how to access these services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of 15832 is not a single number but a composite assessment based on several factors.

* **Proximity:** Penn Highlands Clearfield scores highly for convenience, but its limited specialty services and lack of a CMS star rating are drawbacks.
* **Specialty Services:** Penn Highlands DuBois offers a broader range of services, making it a strong contender for complex medical needs. Mount Nittany Medical Center, with its CMS star rating and Level II Trauma Center, is another strong option.
* **ER Wait Times:** While data can fluctuate, Penn Highlands DuBois and Mount Nittany Medical Center generally have more robust resources to handle a higher volume of patients.
* **Telehealth:** All the hospitals are offering telehealth services, providing convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments.

**Recommendations and Final Thoughts**

For routine care and less complex medical needs, Penn Highlands Clearfield remains a convenient option. However, for more specialized care or in emergency situations, Penn Highlands DuBois or Mount Nittany Medical Center may be preferable. Consider your specific healthcare needs, the urgency of your situation, and your willingness to travel when making your decision. Always confirm ER wait times and telehealth availability before visiting or scheduling an appointment. Residents of 15832 have access to a network of hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses. By understanding these factors, you can make informed choices to ensure you receive the best possible care.