26264, Durbin, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26264, Durbin, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26264 (Elkins, West Virginia)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the area near Elkins, West Virginia (ZIP code 26264), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. This analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. Due to the rural nature of the region, the options are limited, but understanding the available resources is crucial.

**Core Considerations: Proximity and Access**

The primary challenge for residents of 26264 is geographic access. The nearest major medical centers are often a considerable distance away, impacting emergency response times and access to specialized care. This review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving radius, acknowledging the limitations of the area.

**The Key Player: Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV)**

Davis Medical Center (DMC), located directly within Elkins, is the primary healthcare provider for the 26264 ZIP code. DMC is a critical access hospital, a designation reflecting its importance in a rural setting. Critical access hospitals receive special Medicare reimbursement to help maintain services in areas with limited healthcare options. DMC is a 50-bed facility.

**CMS Star Rating & Performance at Davis Medical Center**

As of the latest available data, Davis Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for comparing hospitals, but not all hospitals, especially critical access facilities, are rated. This doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but it does limit the direct comparative data available.

**Emergency Room Performance at Davis Medical Center**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility. While specific, publicly available wait time data for DMC is not readily available through standard sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. However, local sources and patient reviews suggest that wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to call ahead or check local online resources, when possible, for real-time updates.

**Specialty Services at Davis Medical Center**

DMC offers a range of services, including general surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics and gynecology. They also have a dedicated wound care center. The availability of these services is a significant advantage for residents, reducing the need for travel to larger hospitals for common medical needs.

**Telehealth Initiatives at Davis Medical Center**

Telehealth is increasingly important in rural areas. DMC has been actively expanding its telehealth capabilities. The hospital offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, including behavioral health and cardiology. This is a significant benefit, allowing patients to access specialists remotely, reducing travel burdens.

**Other Healthcare Options: Considerations Beyond DMC**

Given the limited options in the immediate vicinity, residents may need to consider hospitals further afield. This section explores some of the regional options and their respective strengths and weaknesses.

**Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV): A Regional Hub**

Approximately a 2-hour drive from Elkins, Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown is a larger, more comprehensive facility. Mon Health is a regional referral center, offering a wider array of specialized services.

**CMS Star Rating & Performance at Mon Health Medical Center**

Mon Health Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a mixed performance across various quality metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance at Mon Health Medical Center**

Emergency room wait times at Mon Health can fluctuate. The hospital’s website and online sources often provide real-time wait time updates. Due to its larger size and higher patient volume, wait times can be longer than at DMC.

**Specialty Services at Mon Health Medical Center**

Mon Health offers a broad range of specialties, including advanced cardiology, neurosurgery, oncology, and a Level II trauma center. This makes it a crucial resource for complex medical needs.

**Telehealth Initiatives at Mon Health Medical Center**

Mon Health has invested heavily in telehealth, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services across various specialties. This is especially beneficial for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling to Morgantown.

**WVU Medicine - Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV): A Tertiary Care Center**

Also located in Morgantown, WVU Medicine - Ruby Memorial Hospital is a tertiary care center, meaning it offers the highest level of specialized care in the region. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with West Virginia University.

**CMS Star Rating & Performance at Ruby Memorial Hospital**

Ruby Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating should be interpreted in context, as teaching hospitals often handle more complex cases, which can impact certain metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance at Ruby Memorial Hospital**

Emergency room wait times at Ruby Memorial can be significant, given its role as a regional referral center and Level I trauma center. Real-time wait time information is usually available on the hospital's website.

**Specialty Services at Ruby Memorial Hospital**

Ruby Memorial offers an extensive range of specialties, including advanced cancer treatment, transplant services, and a comprehensive heart and vascular institute. It is a leading center for complex medical procedures.

**Telehealth Initiatives at Ruby Memorial Hospital**

Ruby Memorial is a leader in telehealth, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and tele-ICU services. This is particularly important for patients in remote areas who require access to specialized expertise.

**Additional Healthcare Resources: Beyond the Hospitals**

Beyond the hospitals, the 26264 area benefits from a network of other healthcare resources, including:

* **Outpatient Clinics:** Several outpatient clinics offer primary care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** While not always available 24/7, urgent care centers provide immediate care for less serious conditions.
* **Behavioral Health Services:** Access to mental health services is critical, and the area has mental health providers and clinics.
* **Home Health Agencies:** Home health agencies provide care in the patient's home, which can be especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or chronic conditions.

**Overall Health Score Summary: Near 26264**

**Davis Medical Center:** Serves as the primary healthcare provider, offering essential services and telehealth options. Lacks a CMS star rating, but is a critical access hospital. Emergency room wait times are variable.

**Mon Health Medical Center:** A regional hub with a broader range of specialties and a 3-star CMS rating. Telehealth capabilities are strong. Longer ER wait times are possible.

**Ruby Memorial Hospital:** A tertiary care center with advanced specialties and a 3-star CMS rating. Strong telehealth initiatives. ER wait times can be significant.

**Key Considerations for Residents**

* **Proximity:** Factor in travel time to access care, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Needs:** Identify the specific medical services required and which hospitals offer them.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Utilize telehealth options to access specialists and reduce travel.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Know the closest emergency room and understand potential wait times.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient experiences and reviews to gain insights into the quality of care.

**Conclusion**

Healthcare access near 26264 presents challenges due to the rural environment. Davis Medical Center provides essential services, while Mon Health and Ruby Memorial offer more specialized care, albeit at a greater distance. Residents should proactively research their healthcare options, consider telehealth, and plan for potential travel needs to ensure they receive the best possible care. The "Overall Health Score" is inherently subjective and depends on individual needs and priorities. This review aims to provide a framework for informed decision-making, acknowledging the complexities of healthcare in this region.