26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26143, Elizabeth, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26143

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near the 26143 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics like quality, accessibility, and patient experience. This information aims to empower individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Defining the Scope:**

The 26143 ZIP code encompasses the town of Harrisville, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. Given the rural nature of this location, access to a wide range of hospitals is limited. The review will primarily focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like specialized care availability and patient volume.

**The Importance of CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website provides a valuable tool for evaluating hospital quality. CMS assigns star ratings, ranging from one to five stars, based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. These ratings offer a readily accessible snapshot of a hospital's performance.

**Assessing the Landscape: Core Hospitals and Their Performance**

The primary hospital serving the area is **St. Joseph's Hospital in Parkersburg, WV**, located approximately 20 miles from Harrisville. It is a 145-bed hospital. St. Joseph's Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating suggests a hospital that performs at an average level compared to other hospitals nationwide. Key areas to consider include patient safety, with metrics like hospital-acquired infections and complications, and patient experience scores based on surveys.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for patients seeking immediate care. Unfortunately, specific, real-time ER wait time data can be challenging to obtain definitively for individual hospitals. However, publicly available data and online resources like those from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) can provide general trends. St. Joseph's Hospital, being the primary regional hospital, likely experiences moderate ER volumes. Patients should anticipate potential wait times, particularly during peak hours or in the event of a surge in emergency cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is crucial, especially for patients with chronic conditions or complex medical needs. St. Joseph's Hospital offers a range of specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. They have a dedicated cancer center and a heart center. They also have a labor and delivery unit.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. St. Joseph's Hospital has likely integrated telehealth services to varying degrees. Telehealth can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients. This can significantly improve access to care for patients in the 26143 area. The extent of telehealth integration can be determined by contacting the hospital directly or consulting their website for specific services.

**Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs are a significant concern for patients. While this review does not delve into detailed pricing information, patients should be aware of the potential costs associated with healthcare services. Patients should inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs and insurance coverage options.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

While St. Joseph's Hospital is the primary facility, other hospitals may be within a reasonable driving distance. These facilities may offer specialized services or provide alternative options for patients.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall healthcare quality. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into patient perspectives on their care. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the overall hospital environment. Patients should review these surveys to gauge the level of satisfaction with the hospital's services.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility is a major concern in rural areas. Transportation challenges can hinder access to healthcare services. Patients in the 26143 area may need to consider transportation options, such as personal vehicles, public transportation, or ride-sharing services.

**Community Health Needs:**

Understanding the specific health needs of the community is crucial for assessing the overall healthcare landscape. The local health department and community organizations often conduct health needs assessments. These assessments identify prevalent health issues and inform healthcare providers about the specific needs of the population.

**Additional Factors to Consider:**

Beyond the core metrics, other factors can influence the overall health score of a hospital. These include:

* **Staffing levels:** Adequate staffing is crucial for providing quality care.
* **Technology and equipment:** Access to advanced medical technology can improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.
* **Hospital accreditation:** Accreditation by recognized organizations, such as The Joint Commission, indicates a commitment to quality and safety.
* **Community involvement:** Hospitals that actively engage with the community often demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the population.

**Conclusion and Overall Health Score:**

Based on the available information, the overall health score for hospitals near the 26143 ZIP code is primarily influenced by the performance of St. Joseph's Hospital. While the hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars, indicating average performance, it is the primary source of care for the area. Patients should consider the hospital's specialties, ER wait times, telehealth integration, and patient experience when making healthcare decisions.

**Recommendations for Patients:**

* **Research and compare:** Utilize resources like CMS Hospital Compare and other online platforms to compare hospitals and services.
* **Inquire about specialties:** Determine if the hospital offers the specific medical services needed.
* **Assess ER wait times:** Be prepared for potential wait times in the ER.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Inquire about telehealth services for convenient access to care.
* **Consider patient experience:** Review patient satisfaction surveys to gauge the level of care.
* **Understand financial aspects:** Inquire about costs, insurance coverage, and financial assistance programs.
* **Communicate with healthcare providers:** Discuss healthcare needs and preferences with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
* **Consider travel time:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers for personalized medical guidance. The information provided is subject to change, and it is recommended to verify information directly with the hospitals.