16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16729

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near ZIP code 16729 (Port Allegany, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas), access to quality medical care is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals in the vicinity, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the rural nature of the area, options are limited, but understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Limited but Essential**

The immediate vicinity of 16729 doesn't boast a plethora of large, sprawling medical centers. Healthcare access often relies on smaller community hospitals and potentially travel to larger facilities in neighboring cities. This review will focus on the primary options available, acknowledging the importance of proximity and the realities of rural healthcare.

**UPMC Kane: A Local Anchor**

UPMC Kane, located in Kane, Pennsylvania, is a critical player in the healthcare ecosystem for this region. It serves as a vital resource for residents in and around 16729. While it's not a massive tertiary center, it provides essential services close to home.

UPMC Kane's CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. Unfortunately, the most recent publicly available data indicates a three-star rating. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a three-star rating isn't the highest possible score, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

ER wait times are a significant concern for any hospital. Unfortunately, specific, regularly updated ER wait time data for UPMC Kane is not readily available from public sources. Patients should always call the hospital or consult online resources like the UPMC website or third-party sites like ERwaitTimes.com for the most current information. However, as a general rule, expect longer wait times in rural hospitals compared to those in urban settings, due to fewer resources and potentially longer transport times for patients arriving via ambulance.

UPMC Kane provides a range of specialty services. They offer services in areas such as cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. Details on specific programs and the availability of specialists can be found on the UPMC Kane website or by calling the hospital directly.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. UPMC, as a large healthcare system, has invested in telehealth capabilities. The availability of telehealth services at UPMC Kane is something patients should inquire about, as it can provide access to specialists and consultations without requiring travel.

**Olean General Hospital: A Regional Option**

While not directly within the 16729 ZIP code, Olean General Hospital, located in Olean, New York, is a potential option for residents in the area, particularly for those seeking specialized care. It's a regional hospital that often serves patients from Pennsylvania.

Olean General Hospital's CMS star rating is a key consideration. Publicly available data indicates a three-star rating. This rating is a starting point for assessing the hospital's overall performance.

ER wait times are a crucial factor for emergency care. Publicly available data for Olean General Hospital's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through third-party sources. However, it's always advisable to confirm the most up-to-date information before seeking care.

Olean General Hospital offers a broader range of specialty services compared to smaller community hospitals. It provides services in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and surgery. Specific details on these services and the availability of specialists can be found on the hospital's website.

Telehealth capabilities are increasingly important. Olean General Hospital likely offers telehealth services, given the trend in healthcare. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact them directly to learn about the telehealth options available.

**Other Considerations: Clinics and Urgent Care**

Beyond the main hospitals, residents in the 16729 area have access to other healthcare options, including clinics and urgent care facilities. These facilities can provide convenient access to primary care, minor illnesses, and injuries.

The availability of these facilities varies. Residents should check local directories, online resources, and their insurance provider's network to identify the closest and most appropriate options.

ER wait times are generally shorter at urgent care facilities compared to hospital emergency rooms, but these facilities are not equipped to handle serious medical emergencies.

**The Impact of Rural Healthcare Challenges**

It's important to acknowledge the inherent challenges of providing healthcare in rural areas. These challenges include:

* **Limited access to specialists:** Rural areas often have a shortage of specialists, requiring patients to travel long distances for specialized care.
* **Longer transport times:** Ambulance response times and transport times to hospitals can be longer in rural areas, potentially impacting patient outcomes.
* **Financial constraints:** Rural hospitals often face financial challenges, which can affect their ability to invest in new technology and services.
* **Staffing shortages:** Recruiting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals can be difficult in rural areas.

These factors can affect the overall health score of hospitals in the area.

**Overall Health Score Summary for Hospitals Near 16729**

**UPMC Kane:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** Three stars.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data not readily available; check with the hospital.
* **Specialty Services:** Offers core services; inquire about specific programs.
* **Telehealth:** Likely offers telehealth services; confirm availability.

**Olean General Hospital:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** Three stars.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check hospital website or third-party sources.
* **Specialty Services:** Broader range of services; consult website.
* **Telehealth:** Likely offers telehealth; confirm availability.

**Overall Assessment:**

The healthcare options near 16729 are limited, but essential. UPMC Kane serves as a local anchor, while Olean General Hospital provides a regional option. Both hospitals have three-star CMS ratings. Patients should consider these ratings, along with ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, when making healthcare decisions.

Given the rural setting, residents should be aware of the challenges of accessing healthcare and plan accordingly. This includes understanding the limitations of available services, knowing where to seek care for different medical needs, and considering the potential for travel to access specialized services. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for overcoming some of these challenges.

Patients should always verify the most up-to-date information on ER wait times, services, and telehealth options by contacting the hospitals directly or consulting their websites. This review provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape, but individual needs and circumstances should always guide healthcare decisions.