26141, Creston, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26141, Creston, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26141 (Parkersburg, WV)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 26141 (Parkersburg, West Virginia), providing a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making. This analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a snapshot of healthcare accessibility and quality in the region.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Considerations**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Parkersburg area include WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center and Marietta Memorial Hospital. Proximity and accessibility are crucial. Consider travel time, traffic patterns, and ease of access to each facility when evaluating options. This review focuses on these primary players, offering a comparative analysis.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center: A Detailed Look**

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, located within Parkersburg, serves as a major healthcare hub. It is a prominent presence in the region, offering a wide array of services.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** As of the latest available data, Camden Clark Medical Center has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on a range of quality measures, provides a general indication of overall performance. It's important to note that these ratings are dynamic and subject to change.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical concern for patients. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available data suggests that Camden Clark Medical Center generally experiences wait times that are within the national average. It is always advisable to check current wait times through the hospital’s website or a third-party platform before seeking care.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Camden Clark boasts a range of specialty centers. These include a comprehensive cardiology program, offering services from diagnostic testing to interventional procedures. The hospital also has a dedicated cancer center, providing radiation oncology, chemotherapy, and support services. Orthopedic care, including joint replacements and sports medicine, is another key focus. Further, it has a dedicated women's health center.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is increasingly important for healthcare access. Camden Clark has expanded its telehealth offerings. This includes virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and access to behavioral health services via telehealth platforms. The hospital is actively working to expand its telehealth capabilities to improve patient access to care, especially for those in rural areas.

**Marietta Memorial Hospital: Across the River**

Marietta Memorial Hospital, located across the Ohio River in Marietta, Ohio, offers another option for residents near Parkersburg. While technically outside the 26141 ZIP code, its proximity makes it a relevant consideration.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** Marietta Memorial Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS. This indicates a higher overall performance compared to Camden Clark, according to CMS metrics.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** Marietta Memorial Hospital’s ER wait times are generally comparable to those at Camden Clark. Again, real-time data should be consulted for the most accurate picture.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Marietta Memorial Hospital provides a broad spectrum of services. It has a strong cardiology program, a comprehensive cancer center, and a well-regarded orthopedic department. The hospital also offers a range of surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Marietta Memorial Hospital has also embraced telehealth. It provides virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services to enhance patient access.

**Comparing the Options: A Side-by-Side Analysis**

When comparing Camden Clark and Marietta Memorial, several factors emerge. Marietta Memorial's higher CMS star rating suggests potentially better performance across a range of quality indicators. However, Camden Clark's location within Parkersburg offers greater convenience for many residents.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Metric:** Both hospitals strive to minimize ER wait times. Checking real-time data is crucial before seeking emergency care.

**Specialty Services: Matching Needs:** Both hospitals offer comprehensive specialty services. Patients should consider their specific healthcare needs when choosing a facility. For example, a patient requiring advanced cardiac care might evaluate the specific programs and technologies offered by each hospital.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access:** Both hospitals are actively using telehealth to expand access to care. The availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring can be especially valuable for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Considerations**

While Camden Clark and Marietta Memorial are the primary hospitals, other healthcare options exist in the area. These include urgent care centers and outpatient clinics. These facilities can provide convenient care for less serious conditions.

**Outpatient Services:** Consider the availability of outpatient services like physical therapy, imaging, and laboratory testing. These services are often available at both hospitals and in various outpatient settings.

**Physician Networks:** The physician networks associated with each hospital are a key factor. Consider the availability of specialists, primary care physicians, and other healthcare providers within each network.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Patient reviews and experiences can provide valuable insights. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient feedback on various aspects of care.

**Financial Considerations:** Healthcare costs are a significant concern. Investigate insurance coverage, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses at each facility.

**Community Health and Wellness:** The overall health of the community is an important consideration. Factors like access to healthy food, safe environments, and opportunities for physical activity can impact overall health outcomes.

**The Overall Health Score: A Summary**

Based on this review, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 26141 can be summarized as follows:

* **WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center:** A solid healthcare provider with a broad range of services and a convenient location. Its 3-star CMS rating suggests room for improvement. Its growing telehealth capabilities are a positive development.
* **Marietta Memorial Hospital:** Offers a potentially higher level of overall quality, as reflected in its 4-star CMS rating. Its proximity to Parkersburg makes it a viable option for many residents. Its telehealth offerings are also noteworthy.

**Recommendation:**

Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when choosing a hospital. Factors like the specific medical condition, insurance coverage, and personal preferences should all be considered. Consulting with a primary care physician is always recommended to discuss the best healthcare options. This review provides a starting point for informed decision-making, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always prioritize your health and well-being.