15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 15957, Strongstown, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15957 (Johnstown, PA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Johnstown, PA area (ZIP Code 15957), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions about their care. The score considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and overall patient experience. Due to the limited number of hospitals directly within the immediate vicinity, this review will concentrate on the primary providers accessible to residents of Johnstown.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Regional Focus**

The immediate vicinity of Johnstown, PA, doesn't boast a vast array of hospitals. Residents primarily rely on a few key institutions, with some regional travel often necessary for specialized care. This review will focus on the most relevant facilities, acknowledging that access to certain services may require travel outside the immediate area.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center: The Local Flagship**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center (1086 Franklin St, Johnstown, PA 15905) serves as the primary hospital for the Johnstown area. It's a large, regional medical center offering a wide range of services. Conemaugh is the flagship hospital for the area.

**CMS Star Rating:** Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's essential to delve deeper into specific areas of performance.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing a hospital's accessibility and responsiveness. While precise, real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data suggests that Conemaugh's ER wait times are often within the national average. However, it's always advisable to check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospital directly, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Conemaugh offers a comprehensive range of specialty services. The hospital boasts a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. It also has a well-regarded cancer center, providing radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. Other key specialties include orthopedics, neurology, and a dedicated women's health center.

**Telehealth Availability:** Conemaugh has embraced telehealth to some degree, offering virtual visits for certain specialties and follow-up appointments. The hospital's telehealth offerings are continually evolving, so it's recommended to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on available virtual care options.

**Patient Experience:** Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. Conemaugh's patient satisfaction scores, as measured by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, are generally in line with national averages. However, individual experiences can vary, and it's essential to consider personal preferences and needs when choosing a hospital.

**UPMC Altoona: A Regional Option**

While not directly in Johnstown, UPMC Altoona (620 Howard Ave, Altoona, PA 16601), located approximately an hour's drive away, is a significant regional hospital that may be considered by some Johnstown residents, especially for specialized care.

**CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Altoona has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Altoona fluctuate, but data suggests they are often comparable to or slightly better than the national average. As with Conemaugh, checking real-time wait times is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** UPMC Altoona offers a broad spectrum of specialty services, including a comprehensive heart and vascular center, a cancer center, and advanced surgical capabilities. It's known for its trauma center and its neurosurgery program.

**Telehealth Availability:** UPMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits across a wide range of specialties. This includes primary care, specialty consultations, and follow-up appointments. The UPMC system has invested significantly in telehealth infrastructure, making it a convenient option for many patients.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at UPMC Altoona are generally positive, reflecting a commitment to patient-centered care. However, as with any hospital, individual experiences can vary.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Services**

Beyond the major hospitals, Johnstown residents have access to other healthcare providers. These include smaller community hospitals, urgent care centers, and a variety of outpatient clinics.

**Community Hospitals:** While not offering the full range of services of a large medical center, community hospitals can be valuable for basic medical care, including emergency services and inpatient stays. They often provide a more personal and accessible healthcare experience.

**Urgent Care Centers:** Urgent care centers are a convenient option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. They offer walk-in care and can provide immediate medical attention when a primary care physician is unavailable.

**Outpatient Clinics:** Numerous outpatient clinics in the Johnstown area provide specialized care, including physical therapy, rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging. These clinics often offer a more focused and accessible healthcare experience.

**Overall Health Score Assessment: A Summary**

Evaluating hospitals near ZIP Code 15957 involves a nuanced assessment, considering the limitations of the local healthcare landscape.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center:** As the primary hospital in the area, Conemaugh provides a wide range of services and serves as a critical resource for the community. Its 3-star CMS rating indicates areas for improvement, but its comprehensive services and established presence make it a vital healthcare provider. ER wait times are generally within the national average. Its specialty centers, including cardiology and cancer care, are notable strengths. Telehealth offerings are available, but it's crucial to confirm specific options.

**UPMC Altoona:** UPMC Altoona, while requiring travel, offers a more extensive array of specialized services and a well-developed telehealth program. Its 3-star CMS rating is similar to Conemaugh. It can be a strong option for patients seeking specific specialists or advanced treatments not readily available in Johnstown. ER wait times are generally acceptable.

**Other Considerations:** The availability of community hospitals, urgent care centers, and outpatient clinics provides additional options for healthcare needs.

**Recommendations for Johnstown Residents**

* **Consider your needs:** Assess the specific medical needs. For routine care, Conemaugh may suffice. For specialized care, UPMC Altoona or other regional centers may be preferable.
* **Check wait times:** Before heading to the ER, check real-time wait times.
* **Explore telehealth:** If telehealth is an option, consider its convenience and accessibility.
* **Review patient reviews:** Research patient experiences and reviews online.
* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Seek guidance from a primary care physician. They can help navigate the healthcare system and recommend the best options for your needs.
* **Don't hesitate to travel:** For complex medical issues, don't hesitate to travel to regional centers offering specialized care.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Johnstown, PA, offers a range of options, with Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center serving as the primary provider. UPMC Altoona provides a regional alternative, and other facilities offer specialized services. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs, research available options, and consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care. The Overall Health Score assessment emphasizes the importance of understanding the strengths and limitations of each facility to ensure access to quality healthcare.