16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16347

The quest for quality healthcare near ZIP code 16347, encompassing the Oil City, Pennsylvania area, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of available facilities. This review analyzes key hospitals, evaluating their performance based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. While no single "best" hospital exists for all needs, this assessment provides a framework for informed decision-making.

**Defining the Landscape:**

The immediate vicinity of Oil City offers a limited but crucial healthcare network. Residents often rely on a combination of local hospitals and regional centers for specialized care. Proximity to larger cities like Pittsburgh and Erie provides access to a broader spectrum of medical expertise. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering their impact on the health outcomes of 16347 residents.

**UPMC Northwest:**

Located in Seneca, Pennsylvania, UPMC Northwest serves as a primary healthcare provider for the Oil City area. This hospital holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. UPMC Northwest’s emergency room typically experiences wait times that can fluctuate, so it's always best to check their website or call ahead for the most current information.

UPMC Northwest offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They also have a dedicated women's health center. Telehealth services are available, connecting patients with specialists and providing remote consultations. UPMC Northwest is actively involved in community outreach programs, focusing on preventative care and health education.

**Clarion Hospital:**

Clarion Hospital, part of the UPMC system, is another significant healthcare option within a reasonable driving distance of Oil City. While not immediately in the 16347 ZIP code, its proximity and service area make it relevant. Clarion Hospital has a three-star CMS rating, mirroring UPMC Northwest.

Clarion Hospital provides a comprehensive range of services, including a busy emergency department, surgical suites, and specialized care units. They have a strong focus on cancer care, with a dedicated oncology department. Telehealth is integrated into their service offerings, expanding access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities.

**Saint Vincent Hospital (Erie):**

Approximately an hour's drive from Oil City, Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a major regional medical center. Saint Vincent, part of the AHN (Allegheny Health Network), holds a four-star CMS rating, indicating a higher overall quality score compared to UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital. This rating reflects strong performance in areas like patient safety and clinical outcomes.

Saint Vincent boasts a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle critical emergencies. It offers a wide array of specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and a comprehensive cancer institute. Their emergency room typically handles a high volume of patients, so wait times can vary, and checking real-time data is crucial. Saint Vincent has invested heavily in telehealth, providing remote consultations, virtual visits, and remote patient monitoring programs.

**UPMC Hamot (Erie):**

Also located in Erie, UPMC Hamot is another major healthcare provider accessible to 16347 residents. UPMC Hamot has a four-star CMS rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. This hospital is known for its advanced medical technologies and specialized services.

UPMC Hamot features a Level I Trauma Center, the highest level of trauma care available. It offers a broad spectrum of specialties, including cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a transplant center. Emergency room wait times can fluctuate, so checking the hospital's website or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information is advisable. Telehealth is an integral part of UPMC Hamot's service delivery, facilitating remote consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual patient care.

**Comparing ER Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. While specific real-time data can fluctuate, general trends can be observed. Hospitals with Level I and II trauma centers, like Saint Vincent and UPMC Hamot, often experience higher patient volumes, which can impact wait times. Smaller hospitals, like UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital, may have shorter wait times, but this can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. It's crucial to utilize online tools and hospital websites to check current ER wait times before heading to the emergency room.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized care is crucial for addressing complex medical needs. Saint Vincent and UPMC Hamot, being larger regional centers, offer a more comprehensive range of specialty services. These include advanced cardiology, neurosurgery, oncology, and transplant programs. UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital provide essential specialty services, such as cardiology and orthopedics, but may require referrals to larger centers for highly specialized procedures.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. All the hospitals discussed have embraced telehealth to varying degrees. UPMC Northwest, Clarion Hospital, Saint Vincent, and UPMC Hamot all offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists. This is particularly beneficial for residents of 16347, who may face travel challenges to access specialized care. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to healthcare and reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial indicator of healthcare quality. CMS star ratings incorporate patient experience data, reflecting patient satisfaction with their care. Patient surveys and online reviews can provide additional insights into the experiences of other patients. It's essential to consider these factors when choosing a hospital.

**Considerations for 16347 Residents:**

For residents of 16347, the choice of hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. For routine care and less complex medical issues, UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital offer convenient options. For specialized care and emergency situations, Saint Vincent and UPMC Hamot in Erie provide access to advanced medical expertise. The availability of telehealth services at all these hospitals enhances access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 16347 offers a mix of local and regional options. UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital provide essential services, while Saint Vincent and UPMC Hamot offer more specialized care. Evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. Residents should consider their individual needs, the severity of their condition, and the availability of specialized services when choosing a hospital. Utilizing online resources, checking real-time data, and consulting with healthcare providers are essential steps in navigating the healthcare system and ensuring access to the best possible care. The evolving nature of healthcare necessitates ongoing assessment and adaptation to ensure the best possible health outcomes for the community.