26260, Davis, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26260, Davis, West Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26260

The pursuit of quality healthcare is a fundamental concern, and for residents near ZIP code 26260 (Parsons, West Virginia, and surrounding areas), understanding the available options is paramount. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from CMS star ratings to telehealth accessibility, to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. Due to the rural nature of the region, the focus will be on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, recognizing that residents may need to travel for specialized care.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare environment near 26260 is characterized by its rurality. This often translates to fewer hospital options compared to urban areas, but it also fosters a strong sense of community and personalized care. The availability of specialists and advanced medical technologies may be limited, necessitating careful consideration of each hospital's capabilities.

**Key Hospitals in the Vicinity:**

The primary hospitals serving the area include facilities in Elkins, Buckhannon, and potentially Morgantown, depending on travel preferences. We will examine these, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses.

**Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV):**

Davis Medical Center (DMC) is a critical access hospital located in Elkins, approximately a 20-minute drive from Parsons. Critical access hospitals are designed to provide essential services in rural areas. DMC's most recent CMS star rating is unavailable, so further research is needed to determine its current standing. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and diagnostic imaging.

Emergency Room (ER) wait times at DMC are a crucial factor. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's essential to check the hospital's website or utilize online resources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information. Longer wait times can indicate higher patient volume or staffing challenges.

DMC has specialty centers, including a cardiology department and a cancer center. The presence of these centers reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care. Telehealth services are also available, which is particularly important for residents in rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, medication management, and follow-up appointments, improving access to care. The extent of DMC's telehealth offerings, including the types of specialties available and the ease of use, should be assessed.

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

St. Joseph's Hospital in Buckhannon is another important healthcare provider within a reasonable distance of 26260. Like DMC, it is a critical access hospital. The CMS star rating for St. Joseph's Hospital is also unavailable at this time, so further investigation is required.

ER wait times at St. Joseph's are another key consideration. Checking the hospital's website or other online resources will provide the most current data. Similar to DMC, the presence of specialty centers is a positive indicator. St. Joseph's offers services in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.

Telehealth is another important aspect of the hospital's services. The availability of telehealth services at St. Joseph's, as well as the ease of access to these services, should be evaluated.

**WVU Medicine - J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV):**

For more complex medical needs, residents near 26260 may need to travel to Morgantown, which is approximately a 2-hour drive. WVU Medicine - J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital is a large, tertiary care facility and the flagship hospital of the WVU Medicine system. It is a Level I Trauma Center, indicating its capacity to handle the most severe injuries and illnesses. Ruby Memorial Hospital is a teaching hospital, which means it is affiliated with a medical school and often has the latest research and treatment protocols available.

Ruby Memorial Hospital has a CMS star rating, which provides a general indication of its quality of care. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

ER wait times at Ruby Memorial Hospital can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time wait time information.

Ruby Memorial Hospital boasts a wide range of specialty centers, including comprehensive cancer care, heart and vascular services, and neurosurgery. Its specialized services are a major draw for patients needing advanced medical care.

Telehealth is a significant component of Ruby Memorial Hospital's services. The hospital offers telehealth consultations across a variety of specialties, making it easier for patients to access specialists remotely. The hospital's telehealth program is well-developed, offering remote monitoring and virtual follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the primary hospitals, other factors influence the overall health score. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists in the area is essential. Access to urgent care clinics can provide an alternative to the ER for less serious conditions. The presence of home health agencies can facilitate post-hospital care and chronic disease management.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

**Davis Medical Center:** While the lack of a current CMS star rating makes a definitive assessment challenging, DMC's proximity and range of services make it a crucial healthcare provider for the 26260 area. The availability of specialty centers and telehealth services is a positive. ER wait times and the breadth of its telehealth services should be carefully evaluated.

**St. Joseph's Hospital:** Similar to DMC, St. Joseph's is a critical access hospital serving the area. Its proximity and services make it a vital healthcare provider. The availability of specialty centers and telehealth services is a positive factor. ER wait times and the breadth of its telehealth services should be carefully evaluated.

**WVU Medicine - J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital:** Ruby Memorial Hospital offers a higher level of care and a wider range of specialties. Its CMS star rating and Level I Trauma Center designation reflect its capabilities. However, the distance to Morgantown is a significant factor, and patients must weigh the benefits of specialized care against the travel time. ER wait times are a consideration. Its comprehensive telehealth program is a significant advantage.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

Residents near 26260 should:

* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician:** This is the first point of contact for healthcare needs and can help coordinate care.
* **Familiarize themselves with the services offered by each hospital:** Understand the strengths and limitations of each facility.
* **Check ER wait times before going to the ER:** Utilize online resources to make informed decisions.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Take advantage of telehealth services to access specialists and manage chronic conditions.
* **Consider travel time for specialized care:** Weigh the benefits of traveling to a larger hospital against the convenience of local options.
* **Stay informed:** Regularly check hospital websites and online resources for updates on services, wait times, and other important information.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents near 26260 is influenced by the availability of both local and regional healthcare providers. While the area benefits from critical access hospitals that offer essential services, residents should be prepared to travel for more specialized care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each hospital, utilizing telehealth options, and staying informed, residents can make the best healthcare decisions for themselves and their families. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so continuous monitoring of services and quality metrics is essential for ensuring the best possible health outcomes.