25711, Huntington, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 25711, Huntington, West Virginia is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Huntington, WV (ZIP Code 25711)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Huntington, West Virginia (ZIP code 25711), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial for informed healthcare decisions. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from CMS star ratings to specialty centers and telehealth offerings, to help residents assess their options.

**The Landscape: Key Players and General Overview**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 25711 area are Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center. Both are major players, offering a broad range of services. The quality of care, however, can vary, and understanding the nuances is essential. This review will delve into the specifics of each institution, providing a comparative analysis.

**Cabell Huntington Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Cabell Huntington Hospital (CHH), a flagship facility in the region, is a prominent name in healthcare for the Huntington community. CHH holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. The CMS star rating is based on a complex formula evaluating various aspects of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Emergency Department Dynamics:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for many patients. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, data suggests that CHH’s ER wait times are generally in line with, or slightly above, the national average. This means patients can anticipate a wait before being seen by a medical professional. It is important to note that wait times are affected by the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

CHH boasts a robust array of specialty centers. The hospital is home to the Hoops Family Children's Hospital, a dedicated pediatric facility providing comprehensive care for children. CHH also houses the Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center, offering advanced cancer treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital has a well-regarded heart and vascular institute.

**Telehealth Presence:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for convenient access to care. CHH has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments in various specialties. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth services can improve access to specialists and reduce the need for in-person visits.

**St. Mary's Medical Center: Examining the Competition**

St. Mary's Medical Center, another major hospital in the Huntington area, presents a different set of strengths and weaknesses. St. Mary's also holds a three-star rating from CMS, indicating a similar overall performance compared to CHH.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

St. Mary's ER wait times are also a key consideration. While specific wait times vary, St. Mary's generally experiences wait times comparable to those at CHH. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

**Specialty Offerings:**

St. Mary's has a strong presence in several specialties. The hospital is known for its comprehensive women's health services, including obstetrics and gynecology. St. Mary's also provides specialized care in areas such as orthopedics and cardiology.

**Telehealth Integration:**

St. Mary's has invested in telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring in select specialties. The hospital's telehealth initiatives aim to improve patient access to care and enhance the convenience of healthcare delivery.

**Beyond the Big Two: Other Considerations**

While Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center are the primary healthcare providers, residents should also consider other facilities and services.

**Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care:**

Numerous outpatient clinics and urgent care centers operate in and around the 25711 ZIP code. These facilities provide convenient access to routine medical care, vaccinations, and minor injury treatment. They can often offer shorter wait times compared to hospital ERs for less critical conditions.

**Specialty Clinics:**

Specialty clinics, such as those focused on cardiology, dermatology, and mental health, offer specialized care. These clinics can provide more focused treatment and expertise in specific areas of medicine.

**Behavioral Health Resources:**

Mental health services are critical. Both CHH and St. Mary's offer behavioral health services. Additionally, community mental health centers and private practices provide mental health support.

**Factors Affecting Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals in the 25711 area is influenced by several factors.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

The CMS star ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality, considering patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for patients seeking immediate medical attention. Shorter wait times generally indicate better efficiency and access to care.

**Specialty Services:**

The availability of specialized services, such as cancer treatment, cardiac care, and pediatric care, is vital for comprehensive healthcare.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth services enhance access to care, especially for patients in remote areas or with mobility limitations.

**Patient Satisfaction:**

Patient satisfaction surveys provide insights into the patient experience, including communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction with care.

**Community Health Needs:**

The specific health needs of the Huntington community, such as the prevalence of chronic diseases or the availability of mental health services, also influence the overall health score.

**Comparative Analysis and Recommendations**

Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center are both viable options for healthcare in the 25711 area. Both have similar CMS ratings, and their ER wait times are comparable.

**Choosing the Right Hospital:**

The "best" hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances.

* **For specialized care:** Patients needing specialized care in areas like cancer treatment or cardiology should research the specific expertise and resources available at each hospital.
* **For emergency care:** Patients should go to the nearest ER or the one they feel most comfortable with.
* **For routine care:** Consider the convenience of outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and telehealth options.

**Looking Ahead: Trends and Developments**

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Several trends are likely to impact the quality of care in the 25711 area.

**Technological Advancements:**

Advancements in medical technology, such as minimally invasive surgery and advanced imaging techniques, will continue to improve patient outcomes.

**Telehealth Expansion:**

Telehealth services are expected to expand, providing greater access to care and improving patient convenience.

**Focus on Value-Based Care:**

The healthcare industry is shifting towards value-based care, which emphasizes quality of care and patient outcomes.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near the 25711 ZIP code is good. Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center provide a range of services, and both are actively investing in improving patient care. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and research the specific services offered by each facility to make informed decisions. The availability of outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and telehealth options further enhances the accessibility of healthcare in the area. By staying informed about the local healthcare landscape, residents can proactively manage their health and well-being.