26203, Erbacon, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26203, Erbacon, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26203 (Buckhannon, WV)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to Buckhannon, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26203), focusing on key metrics that impact patient well-being. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. This information is crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

**Understanding the Scope:**

The primary hospitals serving the Buckhannon area are the focus of this review. While residents may travel further for specialized care, this assessment prioritizes facilities within a reasonable driving distance, providing a practical guide for local residents. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their healthcare.

**Hospital Profiles and Performance:**

**1. St. Joseph's Hospital (Buckhannon, WV):**

St. Joseph's Hospital is a critical access hospital, a designation reflecting its role in providing essential healthcare services to a rural community. It's important to note that critical access hospitals are not typically assigned CMS star ratings due to their unique operational structure. However, the hospital's commitment to community health is evident in its services.

St. Joseph's offers a range of services, including emergency care, medical-surgical units, and diagnostic imaging. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, local sources suggest that wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Telehealth services are increasingly integrated, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise require travel. The hospital's website and local healthcare providers are the best sources for current telehealth offerings.

**2. Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV - Approximately 60 miles from Buckhannon):**

Mon Health Medical Center, located in Morgantown, is a larger, more comprehensive facility, serving a broader region. Mon Health Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a facility that generally meets or exceeds national standards for quality of care.

Mon Health offers a wide array of specialty services. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive women's health program. They also have a dedicated emergency department. ER wait times are typically longer than those at smaller facilities, reflecting the higher patient volume. Real-time wait times are often available on the hospital's website or through online patient portals. Telehealth services are robust, providing access to specialists and follow-up care, which is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas.

**3. WVU Medicine – United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV - Approximately 30 miles from Buckhannon):**

WVU Medicine – United Hospital Center (UHC) in Clarksburg is another significant healthcare provider within a reasonable driving distance. UHC holds a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating suggests a solid level of care, with areas for potential improvement.

UHC provides a wide range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive heart and vascular institute, and specialized cancer care. ER wait times are variable, influenced by patient volume and the complexity of cases. Real-time wait time information is generally accessible online or through the hospital's app. Telehealth is a growing focus, allowing patients to connect with specialists and receive remote monitoring. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve access to care.

**4. Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV - Approximately 30 miles from Buckhannon):**

Davis Medical Center in Elkins is another critical access hospital, similar to St. Joseph's. As such, it does not have a CMS star rating. It is an important provider for the Elkins and surrounding communities.

Davis Medical Center provides emergency services, medical-surgical care, and a range of outpatient services. ER wait times are typically shorter than those at larger hospitals. Telehealth services are available, offering access to specialists and consultations. The hospital's website and local healthcare providers are the best sources for current telehealth offerings.

**Key Metrics and Considerations:**

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings are a valuable tool for comparing hospitals. These ratings are based on a variety of quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Higher star ratings generally indicate better overall performance. However, it is important to remember that these ratings are just one factor to consider.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical indicator of access to care. Shorter wait times generally mean faster access to treatment. Online resources, hospital websites, and apps often provide real-time wait time information.

**Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, is crucial for comprehensive care. Patients with complex medical needs may need to travel to facilities with specialized expertise.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to specialists, remote monitoring, and follow-up care, reducing the need for travel.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Online review platforms and hospital websites often feature patient feedback.

**Geographic Considerations:** Residents of Buckhannon and the surrounding areas may need to consider travel time when choosing a hospital. The availability of emergency services and specialized care within a reasonable driving distance is a key factor.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, the hospitals serving the Buckhannon area offer a range of healthcare options.

* **St. Joseph's Hospital and Davis Medical Center:** These critical access hospitals provide essential services to their local communities. They are best suited for basic medical needs and emergency care.
* **Mon Health Medical Center and WVU Medicine – United Hospital Center:** These hospitals, while further away, offer a broader range of specialty services and have CMS star ratings. They are better equipped to handle complex medical conditions.

The choice of hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. For routine care and minor emergencies, St. Joseph's or Davis Medical Center may be sufficient. For more complex conditions or specialized care, Mon Health Medical Center or WVU Medicine – United Hospital Center may be preferred.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Specific Needs:** Before making a healthcare decision, research the specific services offered by each hospital and consider your individual needs.
* **Check Wait Times:** Utilize online resources to check ER wait times, especially if seeking emergency care.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Inquire about telehealth services to improve access to care and reduce travel.
* **Consult with Your Physician:** Discuss your healthcare needs with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action.
* **Consider Patient Reviews:** Review patient feedback to gain insights into the patient experience.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Buckhannon, WV, offers a variety of options. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare, ensuring they receive the best possible care for their needs. This "Overall Health Score" assessment is a starting point, encouraging further investigation and personalized healthcare choices. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving; therefore, it's essential to stay informed and adapt to changes in services and offerings.