16156, Volant, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 16156, Volant, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16156

This review provides an in-depth analysis of healthcare options available near ZIP code 16156, focusing on hospital performance, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment. This information is crucial for residents seeking the best possible care in the area.

**Defining the Scope:**

ZIP code 16156 primarily encompasses the town of West Middlesex, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding communities. The review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering accessibility for residents. This includes facilities in Mercer County and neighboring areas, ensuring a broad evaluation of available healthcare resources.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a standardized measure of quality and performance. These ratings are a valuable tool for patients comparing facilities.

**UPMC Jameson (New Castle, PA):** Located approximately 15-20 miles from West Middlesex, UPMC Jameson is a major regional hospital. As of the latest available data, UPMC Jameson has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. UPMC Jameson offers a wide range of services, including a comprehensive cardiology program, a dedicated cancer center, and a robust surgical department. They also boast a Level II Trauma Center, providing critical care for serious injuries.

**Sharon Regional Medical Center (Sharon, PA):** Situated roughly 10-15 miles from West Middlesex, Sharon Regional Medical Center is another significant healthcare provider in the region. Sharon Regional has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This hospital is known for its strong cardiac care, including interventional cardiology services. They also have a well-regarded maternity unit and a variety of outpatient services.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity:**

Other hospitals in the broader region, while perhaps not as directly accessible to West Middlesex residents, can still play a role in healthcare access. These may include facilities in Youngstown, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, depending on specialized needs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a critical factor in patient satisfaction and timely care. Long wait times can indicate overcrowding or staffing challenges.

**UPMC Jameson:** Publicly available data suggests that UPMC Jameson's ER wait times are generally in line with national averages, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. However, wait times can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases.

**Sharon Regional Medical Center:** Sharon Regional Medical Center's ER wait times are also generally comparable to national averages. Patients can expect to wait between 30 minutes and an hour for initial assessment. Again, these times are subject to change.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Access to specialized care is a crucial aspect of overall health. The presence of specialized centers can significantly improve patient outcomes.

**UPMC Jameson:** UPMC Jameson houses a comprehensive cancer center offering radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. They also have specialized programs for cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Their Level II Trauma Center is a significant asset for handling severe injuries.

**Sharon Regional Medical Center:** Sharon Regional offers a strong cardiac program, including interventional cardiology. They also have a dedicated maternity unit, a comprehensive wound care center, and a variety of outpatient specialty clinics.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for accessing care in rural areas.

**UPMC Jameson:** UPMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients needing follow-up care or those with mobility limitations.

**Sharon Regional Medical Center:** Sharon Regional has also embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for certain specialties and remote patient monitoring. This allows patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience:**

Accessibility is a key consideration, encompassing factors like distance, transportation options, and ease of navigating the healthcare system. Patient experience encompasses factors like communication, empathy, and the overall feeling of being cared for.

**UPMC Jameson:** UPMC Jameson is relatively accessible for West Middlesex residents, with a manageable driving distance. They offer various patient support services, including patient advocates and interpreters.

**Sharon Regional Medical Center:** Sharon Regional is similarly accessible. They also prioritize patient experience, offering amenities like comfortable waiting areas and patient education resources.

**Specific Considerations for 16156 Residents:**

Residents of West Middlesex and surrounding areas should consider their specific needs when choosing a hospital. Proximity to the hospital is a crucial factor, especially in emergencies.

**Transportation:** Public transportation options in the area may be limited. Personal vehicles are often the primary mode of transport to hospitals.

**Specialized Needs:** Individuals with chronic conditions or specific healthcare requirements should research hospitals with specialized programs that meet their needs.

**Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital accepts their insurance plan is essential to avoid unexpected costs.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 16156 can be assessed as follows:

* **UPMC Jameson:** Receives a solid score due to its comprehensive services, Level II Trauma Center, and telehealth offerings. The 3-star CMS rating indicates average performance. Accessibility is good for West Middlesex residents.
* **Sharon Regional Medical Center:** Also scores well, particularly for its cardiac care and maternity services. The 3-star CMS rating suggests average performance. Accessibility is good.

**Areas for Improvement:**

Both hospitals could potentially improve in the following areas:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Striving for higher CMS star ratings would indicate enhanced quality and patient safety.
* **ER Wait Times:** Continuous efforts to minimize ER wait times are crucial for patient satisfaction and timely care.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** Further expanding telehealth offerings could improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of ZIP code 16156 have access to quality healthcare options, with UPMC Jameson and Sharon Regional Medical Center serving as key providers. Both hospitals offer a range of services, including specialized care, and are actively embracing telehealth. While both have room for improvement, they provide a solid foundation of healthcare services for the community. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital. Researching specific programs and services, checking insurance coverage, and considering factors like wait times and patient experience will help them make informed decisions about their healthcare.