25076, Ethel, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 25076, Ethel, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 25076 (Clendenin, WV)

Finding the right healthcare can be a daunting task. For residents of Clendenin, West Virginia (ZIP code 25076), access to quality medical care is a critical concern. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals serving this area, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. Due to the rural nature of the region, the options are limited, but understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is paramount.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Region**

Clendenin is situated in Kanawha County, and the primary hospitals serving this area are located in Charleston, a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes. These facilities are the primary choices for emergency care, specialized treatments, and inpatient stays. The overall health score reflects the accessibility, quality, and performance of these key providers.

**CAMC General Hospital (Charleston, WV)**

Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) General Hospital is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. It's a large, comprehensive facility offering a wide range of services. Unfortunately, the most recent CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating for CAMC General is **two stars**. This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience. This is a significant area of concern for potential patients.

CAMC General's emergency room is often a busy place. Average ER wait times can fluctuate, but typically, patients can expect to wait a significant amount of time, potentially exceeding the national average. This is a critical factor, especially for those needing immediate medical attention. The hospital does offer a variety of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and a comprehensive stroke center. It’s a designated Level II Trauma Center, which is an important indicator of its capacity to handle serious injuries.

Telehealth services are available at CAMC, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. While the availability of telehealth is a positive, the breadth and utilization rates of these services should be considered. The hospital's website provides information on its telehealth options, but the specific statistics on patient usage are less readily available.

**CAMC Memorial Hospital (Charleston, WV)**

Another part of the CAMC system, Memorial Hospital, also located in Charleston, offers a different focus. It's a smaller facility compared to CAMC General, but still provides a range of services. The CMS star rating for CAMC Memorial is **three stars**. This is a slightly better rating than its sister hospital, indicating a marginally improved performance on quality measures.

ER wait times at Memorial Hospital are generally shorter than those at CAMC General, but still subject to fluctuations depending on the volume of patients. The hospital specializes in women's health, including obstetrics and gynecology, and offers a variety of surgical services. It does not have the same level of trauma capabilities as CAMC General.

Telehealth services are also available at CAMC Memorial, though the specific offerings and patient utilization rates are less detailed. The hospital’s website provides information on available telehealth options, but the extent of its integration into patient care remains somewhat unclear.

**Thomas Memorial Hospital (South Charleston, WV)**

Thomas Memorial Hospital, located in South Charleston (a short drive from Charleston), is another important option for residents near 25076. This hospital has a **three-star** CMS rating.

Thomas Memorial has a reputation for shorter ER wait times compared to the CAMC hospitals. This can be a significant advantage for patients needing prompt medical attention. The hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive cancer center.

Telehealth services are available at Thomas Memorial, but the scope and utilization rates are not widely publicized. The hospital's website provides some information about telehealth options, but the details on patient usage are limited.

**Other Considerations: Access and Transportation**

For residents of Clendenin, the distance to Charleston hospitals is a key factor. Travel times can be affected by traffic and weather conditions, especially during the winter months. Public transportation options are limited in this rural area, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transport.

The availability of ambulance services is also critical. The response times for emergency medical services can vary, and this is a crucial consideration for patients experiencing a medical crisis.

**Comparing the Hospitals: An Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data, here's a general "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the factors discussed:

* **CAMC General Hospital:** While offering a wide range of services, the two-star CMS rating and potentially longer ER wait times are significant drawbacks. Its Level II Trauma Center is a major advantage. **Overall Health Score: 5/10**
* **CAMC Memorial Hospital:** The three-star rating is a slight improvement, and potentially shorter ER wait times than CAMC General are beneficial. Its focus on women's health is a key advantage. **Overall Health Score: 6/10**
* **Thomas Memorial Hospital:** The three-star rating and generally shorter ER wait times are positives. The range of specialty services is also a plus. **Overall Health Score: 7/10**

**Important Caveats and Recommendations**

This "Overall Health Score" is based on publicly available data and general observations. It is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Patients should always consult with their primary care physician and consider their specific medical needs when choosing a hospital.

It is crucial to note that CMS star ratings are just one indicator of quality. Patient reviews, personal experiences, and the specific needs of each individual should also be considered.

* **Research and Compare:** Before seeking care, research each hospital's website for specific services, physician profiles, and patient satisfaction surveys.
* **Consider ER Wait Times:** If you anticipate needing emergency care, consider the reported ER wait times for each hospital.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask your doctor about their hospital affiliations and recommendations.
* **Assess Transportation:** Factor in travel time and potential transportation challenges when choosing a hospital.
* **Check Telehealth Options:** Explore the telehealth options available at each hospital to determine if they meet your needs.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Clendenin (25076), access to quality healthcare is a critical concern. While the choices are limited, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each hospital is essential. Thomas Memorial Hospital appears to offer a slightly better overall health score, considering its shorter ER wait times and range of services. However, patients should carefully consider their individual needs, consult with their physicians, and conduct thorough research before making any healthcare decisions. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed and proactive is crucial for ensuring the best possible health outcomes. The ongoing efforts to improve quality and access to care in the region are also a positive factor, and patients should remain aware of any new developments.