16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 16114, Clarks Mills, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hermitage, PA (ZIP Code 16114)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals readily accessible to residents of Hermitage, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16114), focusing on key performance indicators to help inform healthcare decisions. The analysis incorporates data from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare resources. It's important to remember that this is a snapshot in time and healthcare quality can fluctuate. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus is on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Hermitage. This includes facilities in Mercer County, PA, and neighboring areas within Ohio, as these are the most likely options for residents. The review considers factors like overall quality, access to care, specialty services, and patient experience.

**The Flagship: UPMC Horizon (Greenville & Farrell, PA)**

UPMC Horizon, with campuses in Greenville and Farrell, PA, is a major player in the region. It is a part of the expansive UPMC system. UPMC Horizon's CMS star rating is a critical indicator. However, the most recent CMS data indicates that UPMC Horizon does not have a star rating. This doesn’t automatically mean the hospital is poor quality, but it does mean that the CMS data is not available for evaluation.

UPMC Horizon offers a broad range of services. They have a comprehensive emergency department, crucial for immediate medical needs. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it's wise to check current wait times on the UPMC website or through local resources before heading to the ER. UPMC Horizon is a teaching hospital, which can translate to a focus on advanced care and research.

Specialty centers at UPMC Horizon include cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital also provides women's health services and offers a network of primary care physicians. Telehealth services are increasingly important. UPMC, as a system, has embraced telehealth. Access to virtual appointments and remote monitoring options are available through the UPMC platform.

**Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Youngstown, OH)**

Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, located in Youngstown, Ohio, is another significant option for residents of the Hermitage area. This hospital is part of the Mercy Health system. As of the most recent CMS data, Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital holds a 3-star rating.

The hospital offers a full range of services, including a busy emergency department. ER wait times can vary, so it's recommended to check real-time data if possible. St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital has a reputation for a strong cardiology program, which is vital in an area with a higher incidence of heart disease.

Specialty centers include a comprehensive cancer center, a dedicated stroke center, and robust surgical services. The hospital has invested in advanced technology and offers telehealth options. Mercy Health's telehealth platform provides access to virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**Sharon Regional Medical Center (Sharon, PA)**

Sharon Regional Medical Center, located in Sharon, PA, is another local hospital that is readily accessible to Hermitage residents. This hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

Sharon Regional Medical Center offers a wide array of services, including a 24/7 emergency department. ER wait times are variable, so checking current wait times is always a good idea. The hospital provides a range of specialty services.

Specialty centers include cardiology, orthopedics, and a women's health center. Sharon Regional has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors influence the overall health score.

* **Access to Primary Care:** The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management. Consider the proximity of primary care providers, their acceptance of your insurance, and their availability for appointments.
* **Specialty Care Availability:** The need for specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology, should be considered. Research the availability of specialists in the area and the quality of their services.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of hospital quality. Look for patient reviews and ratings online. CMS also publishes patient experience data, which can provide valuable insights.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates that a hospital meets certain quality standards. Check the accreditation status of any hospital you are considering.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Hospitals should be prepared for emergencies. Consider the hospital's ability to handle mass casualty events and its disaster preparedness plans.

**Specific Metrics and Data Points (Where Available):**

* **ER Wait Times:** Check hospital websites or third-party resources for real-time ER wait times. Shorter wait times generally indicate better efficiency.
* **Hospital-Acquired Infections:** Look for data on hospital-acquired infections, such as MRSA and C. difficile. Lower infection rates indicate better infection control practices.
* **Readmission Rates:** Lower readmission rates suggest better care and discharge planning.
* **Mortality Rates:** Mortality rates for specific conditions can provide insights into the quality of care.
* **Telehealth Utilization:** The availability and utilization of telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. Look for hospitals that offer virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Assessing Telehealth Services:**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare. Look for hospitals that offer a robust telehealth platform. Key features to consider include:

* **Virtual Appointments:** The ability to schedule virtual appointments with physicians and specialists.
* **Remote Patient Monitoring:** The use of technology to monitor patients' vital signs and health data remotely.
* **Digital Health Tools:** Access to online patient portals, educational resources, and other digital health tools.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Cost Transparency:** Inquire about the cost of services and the hospital's financial assistance policies.
* **Billing Practices:** Understand the hospital's billing practices and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Your specific healthcare needs:** The type of care you require, such as emergency services, specialized care, or preventative care.
* **Your insurance coverage:** The hospitals that are in your insurance network.
* **Your personal preferences:** The hospital's location, reputation, and patient reviews.
* **The availability of telehealth services:** The ability to access virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The hospitals near Hermitage, PA, offer a range of healthcare options. UPMC Horizon and Sharon Regional Medical Center are local providers with a broad scope of services. Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, in Ohio, is another major regional hospital. The absence of a CMS star rating for UPMC Horizon and the 3-star rating for Sharon Regional underscore the importance of considering multiple factors when evaluating healthcare options. The availability of specialty services, ER wait times, and telehealth options should be considered. Patient reviews and personal experiences are also crucial. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents of Hermitage, PA, can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician for personalized medical advice and recommendations.