15934, Elton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15934, Elton, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15934

The quest for optimal healthcare often begins with location. For residents near ZIP code 15934 (Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas), understanding the landscape of available medical facilities is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. While a definitive single score is impossible, this analysis offers a comprehensive overview to aid informed healthcare decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the quality of the hospitals themselves. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a snapshot of overall hospital performance based on various metrics. Unfortunately, the immediate area around 15934 presents a limited selection of hospitals with CMS star ratings.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center (Johnstown, PA):** This is the largest hospital in the immediate vicinity. Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center is a major regional referral center. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's crucial to consult the most current data on the CMS website. This hospital offers a broad spectrum of services and is often the first point of contact for serious medical needs in the region. Its status as a regional referral center implies the availability of specialized care not found in smaller facilities.

**UPMC Somerset (Somerset, PA):** Located a bit further afield, UPMC Somerset is another option for residents. It's important to research its current CMS star rating, as it can change. UPMC Somerset is part of the larger UPMC network, which often indicates access to a broader range of resources and specialists.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor in patient experience and can be a predictor of overall hospital efficiency. Unfortunately, publicly available data on real-time ER wait times for specific hospitals can be limited. However, websites like Google Maps and others may offer estimates.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center** is likely to experience higher ER volumes, potentially leading to longer wait times, especially during peak hours or in the event of a mass casualty incident. It's advisable to call the hospital directly or consult online resources before heading to the ER, particularly for non-life-threatening conditions.

**UPMC Somerset** might offer shorter wait times compared to Conemaugh, given its smaller size and potentially lower patient volume. However, this is not guaranteed and depends on various factors, including the time of day and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Care:**

The availability of specialized care is a key indicator of a hospital's capability. Residents near 15934 should consider the following specialty centers:

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center:** This hospital typically houses a variety of specialized centers, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical services. The presence of these centers suggests access to specialized physicians, advanced diagnostic equipment, and targeted treatment protocols. Conemaugh's status as a regional referral center further strengthens its ability to offer specialized care.

**UPMC Somerset:** While smaller than Conemaugh, UPMC Somerset may still offer specialized services, particularly those related to general surgery, orthopedics, and women's health. The affiliation with the UPMC network could also provide access to specialists and resources from other UPMC facilities.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telehealth offers remote consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center:** This hospital likely has a telehealth program, offering virtual visits with physicians. The scope of these services should be investigated. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available in person.

**UPMC Somerset:** As part of the UPMC network, UPMC Somerset likely has a robust telehealth program. UPMC is a leader in telehealth, providing a wide array of virtual care options.

**Other Important Considerations:**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors should be considered:

**Hospital Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by reputable organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL. Accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous quality and safety standards. Both Conemaugh and UPMC Somerset likely hold accreditations, but verification is essential.

**Physician Quality and Availability:** Research the credentials and experience of physicians practicing at each hospital. Check online physician directories and patient reviews. The availability of specialists in various fields is also crucial.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall hospital environment.

**Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospitals you are considering accept your insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider to verify coverage details.

**Hospital Financial Stability:** While not directly impacting the quality of care, the financial health of a hospital can influence its ability to invest in new technologies, recruit top talent, and maintain its facilities.

**Specific Services to Investigate:**

When evaluating hospitals, consider the availability of specific services that might be relevant to your needs:

* **Cardiac Care:** Look for hospitals with accredited cardiac centers, offering services like angioplasty, bypass surgery, and cardiac rehabilitation.
* **Cancer Care:** Investigate the presence of comprehensive cancer centers, providing radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services.
* **Maternity Services:** If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, assess the quality of maternity services, including labor and delivery units, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), and postpartum care.
* **Mental Health Services:** Evaluate the availability of mental health services, including inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient therapy, and crisis intervention services.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** If you require rehabilitation services, check for hospitals with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy programs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape near 15934**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 15934 presents a range of options, with Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center serving as the primary regional hub. UPMC Somerset offers another alternative. Residents should diligently research CMS star ratings (subject to change), ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities for each hospital. Patient satisfaction surveys, physician credentials, and insurance coverage are all vital factors. While a single "Overall Health Score" is impossible, this review provides a framework for making informed decisions about your healthcare needs in and around Johnstown, PA.