15948, Revloc, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15948, Revloc, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 15948

Finding the right healthcare can feel like navigating a complex maze. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 15948 (Johnstown, Pennsylvania) to help residents make informed decisions. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty center offerings, and telehealth accessibility, offering a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Johnstown, nestled in the Laurel Highlands, relies on a network of hospitals and healthcare providers to serve its population. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Pittsburgh offers additional options, but this review will primarily focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like accessibility and community needs. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a composite evaluation based on various factors, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Conemaugh Health System: A Cornerstone of Care**

Conemaugh Health System, the dominant healthcare provider in the region, operates several hospitals and facilities that are central to the community's well-being. Its flagship hospital, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center (1086 Franklin St, Johnstown, PA 15905), is the primary focus.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center is a large, acute care hospital with a significant presence in the region. It's a teaching hospital, affiliated with the Temple University School of Medicine, which often translates to access to the latest medical advancements and a higher level of specialized care.

**CMS Star Rating:** As of the latest data, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it’s crucial to remember that these ratings are snapshots in time and should be considered alongside other factors.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for many patients. Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center's ER wait times fluctuate, but generally, the median wait time for patients to see a provider is around 30-45 minutes. This is competitive with other hospitals in the area, but patients should be aware that wait times can vary based on the time of day and the severity of the patient load. The hospital's ER sees a high volume of patients, reflecting its role as a primary emergency care provider for the region.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Conemaugh Memorial boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Its Heart and Vascular Institute offers advanced cardiac care, including open-heart surgery and interventional cardiology. The hospital's comprehensive stroke center is certified by The Joint Commission, indicating its ability to provide high-quality stroke care. The hospital also has a robust cancer center offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. Other notable specialties include a dedicated women's health center, a bariatric surgery program, and a behavioral health unit.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** Conemaugh Health System has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and some specialist consultations. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those who have difficulty traveling to appointments. Telehealth access is growing, but the availability of specific specialties and the ease of use can vary.

**Other Conemaugh Facilities:**

* **Conemaugh Miners Medical Center (290 Haida Ave, Hastings, PA 16646):** This smaller hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. It is a critical access hospital, which means it receives special funding to support its services in a rural area.
* **Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center (200 Hospital Dr, Meyersdale, PA 15552):** Another critical access hospital, offering emergency care, inpatient services, and outpatient clinics.

**UPMC Somerset: A Regional Option**

UPMC Somerset (201 S 4th St, Somerset, PA 15501) is another hospital that serves the region, located approximately 30 miles from Johnstown. It is part of the larger UPMC network, which can offer benefits in terms of access to specialists and resources.

**UPMC Somerset: Key Metrics**

**CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Somerset currently holds a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of performance compared to Conemaugh Memorial. This higher rating suggests better performance in areas like patient outcomes and safety.

**Emergency Room Performance:** UPMC Somerset's ER wait times are typically shorter than those at Conemaugh Memorial, often averaging around 20-30 minutes. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking prompt medical attention.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** UPMC Somerset provides a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer care. It also has a women's health center and offers various outpatient services. While it might not have the same breadth of specialized services as Conemaugh Memorial, it provides a solid foundation of care for the community.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** UPMC, as a system, has a robust telehealth program. UPMC Somerset offers telehealth options for various specialties, including primary care and specialist consultations.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Community Health Needs Assessments:** Both Conemaugh Health System and UPMC Somerset conduct community health needs assessments. These reports identify the most pressing health concerns in the community and guide the hospitals' service offerings and community outreach programs. Reviewing these assessments can provide valuable insights into the hospitals' priorities and their efforts to address local health challenges.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews offer patient reviews and ratings. These can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including factors like communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction. However, it’s important to remember that individual experiences can vary.
* **Insurance Coverage:** It is essential to confirm that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network. This will ensure that your care is covered at the in-network rates.
* **Physician Availability:** The availability of specialists can vary. If you have specific medical needs, it's advisable to research the availability of specialists in your area or to be prepared to travel to larger medical centers if necessary.
* **Rural Health Challenges:** The Johnstown area faces some of the challenges common to rural communities, including physician shortages and limited access to certain specialized services. The hospitals are working to address these challenges through recruitment efforts, telehealth expansion, and partnerships with other healthcare providers.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center:** Offers a comprehensive range of services, including a teaching hospital affiliation, but has a 3-star CMS rating and longer ER wait times. It’s a crucial provider for the region, but patients should be aware of the potential for longer wait times.

**UPMC Somerset:** Boasts a 4-star CMS rating and shorter ER wait times, making it an attractive option for some patients. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as Conemaugh Memorial, it provides a solid foundation of care.

**The "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP code 15948 requires careful consideration of individual needs.** If you require specialized care, Conemaugh Memorial's extensive services may be preferable. If prompt ER care and a higher CMS rating are priorities, UPMC Somerset could be a better choice. Both hospitals offer telehealth options, which can enhance access to care.

**Recommendation:**

Residents should research both hospitals, considering their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences. Contacting the hospitals directly to inquire about specific services and physician availability is recommended. Ultimately, the "best" hospital depends on your individual circumstances and healthcare goals. This review provides a starting point for making an informed decision.