26102, Parkersburg, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26102, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26102

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in close proximity to ZIP code 26102 (Parkersburg, West Virginia), focusing on factors crucial to patient well-being. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth accessibility, and other key metrics to offer a comprehensive picture. This information is intended to assist residents in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Parkersburg, West Virginia, and the surrounding areas are served by a network of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Proximity is a key consideration, but other factors like quality of care, specialized services, and patient experience are equally important. This review aims to provide a balanced perspective, drawing on publicly available data and expert insights.

**The CMS Star Rating System: A Baseline Indicator**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, offer a readily understandable snapshot of a hospital's performance. While not the sole determinant of quality, the CMS star rating provides a valuable starting point for comparison.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center:**

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, located within the 26102 ZIP code, is a central player in the local healthcare ecosystem. It's a significant provider in the area, offering a broad range of services. Unfortunately, as of the most recent available data, Camden Clark Medical Center currently holds a CMS star rating of **two stars**. This rating suggests areas for improvement in various aspects of care. It is crucial to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and subject to change.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to respond to urgent needs. Longer wait times can negatively impact patient outcomes, particularly in time-sensitive situations. Data on ER wait times is often publicly available through hospital websites or third-party sources.

**Camden Clark's ER Performance:**

While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, historical data suggests that Camden Clark Medical Center's ER wait times may sometimes exceed the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. It's always advisable to call ahead if possible, especially for non-life-threatening conditions, to inquire about current wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Meeting Specific Needs**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is critical for patients with specific health conditions. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other areas of expertise. The presence of advanced technology and experienced specialists significantly impacts patient outcomes.

**Camden Clark's Specialty Focus:**

Camden Clark Medical Center offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and a comprehensive surgical program. The hospital has made investments in advanced medical technology. It is important to confirm the availability of specific specialists and services directly with the hospital, as staffing and programs can change.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access healthcare remotely, improving convenience and reducing travel time. It's crucial to assess a hospital's telehealth capabilities, including the types of services offered and the ease of access.

**Telehealth at Camden Clark:**

Camden Clark Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. The hospital offers a variety of telehealth consultations, including virtual visits with specialists and remote monitoring programs. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for patients in the surrounding areas.

**Other Hospitals in the Region: A Comparative Analysis**

While Camden Clark Medical Center is the primary hospital within the 26102 ZIP code, it is important to consider other hospitals in the broader region. This allows for a more comprehensive comparison and provides options for patients.

**Marietta Memorial Hospital (Marietta, OH):**

Marietta Memorial Hospital, located across the Ohio River in Marietta, Ohio, is another option for residents near 26102. It is a regional medical center that offers a wide array of services. It's important to consider the distance and travel time when choosing this option. As of the most recent data, Marietta Memorial Hospital has a CMS star rating of **three stars**.

**Memorial Health System (Marietta, OH):**

Memorial Health System is a larger healthcare network that includes Marietta Memorial Hospital. This system has a broader range of services and specialists. The system’s overall performance can be assessed through its various facilities.

**Assessing ER Wait Times in the Region:**

ER wait times can vary significantly between hospitals. It's essential to check the current wait times at each facility before seeking emergency care. Websites like [insert relevant website if known] often provide real-time or estimated wait times.

**Specialty Services in the Region:**

Both Camden Clark and Marietta Memorial Hospital offer a range of specialty services. Patients should research the specific services offered by each hospital to determine which best meets their needs. This includes cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other specialized areas.

**Telehealth Availability in the Region:**

Both Camden Clark and Marietta Memorial Hospital have expanded their telehealth offerings. Patients should investigate the specific telehealth services available at each hospital, including the types of consultations offered and the ease of access.

**Patient Experience: A Critical Component**

Patient experience encompasses various aspects of care, including communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction. Patient surveys and online reviews provide valuable insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Patient Satisfaction at Camden Clark:**

Patient satisfaction scores at Camden Clark Medical Center, based on publicly available data, indicate areas for improvement. Patients should consider these scores when evaluating their healthcare options.

**Patient Satisfaction at Marietta Memorial:**

Patient satisfaction scores at Marietta Memorial Hospital should be considered when evaluating the hospital's services. Patients should research the hospital's patient satisfaction scores to determine if the services meet their needs.

**Financial Considerations: Costs and Insurance**

Healthcare costs and insurance coverage are essential factors in choosing a hospital. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand the potential out-of-pocket expenses before receiving care. Hospitals often provide cost estimates and financial assistance programs.

**Financial Information at Camden Clark:**

Camden Clark Medical Center provides information on billing and financial assistance programs. Patients should contact the hospital's financial services department to understand their costs and payment options.

**Financial Information at Marietta Memorial:**

Marietta Memorial Hospital provides information on billing and financial assistance programs. Patients should contact the hospital's financial services department to understand their costs and payment options.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available data, WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center is a major healthcare provider for residents near 26102. However, its **two-star CMS rating** suggests areas for improvement. While offering a range of specialty services and expanding telehealth capabilities, patients should be aware of potential ER wait times and consider the patient satisfaction scores.

Marietta Memorial Hospital, with its **three-star CMS rating**, presents a viable alternative, particularly for those willing to travel across the Ohio River. The Memorial Health System offers a broader range of services.

**Recommendations for Patients:**

* **Research:** Thoroughly research each hospital's services, specialties, and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Compare:** Compare ER wait times and telehealth offerings.
* **Verify Insurance:** Confirm insurance coverage and understand potential costs.
* **Consider Proximity:** Balance the convenience of proximity with the quality of care.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about care, costs, and services.

This review provides a starting point for making informed healthcare decisions. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and conduct their own research to determine the best healthcare options for their individual needs. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to stay informed and updated on the latest developments.