26269, Hambleton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26269, Hambleton, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26269 (Parsons, West Virginia)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Parsons, West Virginia (ZIP code 26269), aiming to provide a clear picture of available options. The score considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other critical data points. Due to the rural nature of the area, options are limited, but this review offers the most comprehensive assessment possible.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The primary challenge in this region is geographic. The closest hospitals are often a significant drive, impacting access to care, especially in emergencies. This review will highlight the realities of healthcare access in this specific area, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of the available facilities.

**Key Considerations for the Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" isn't a single number but a composite assessment based on several factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, offer a snapshot of hospital quality based on patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Timely access to emergency care is crucial. We'll examine publicly available data on ER wait times, a key indicator of responsiveness.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, or orthopedics, significantly impacts the scope of care available.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. We'll assess the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring services.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** While subjective, patient feedback provides valuable insights into the overall experience.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates a commitment to quality and safety.
* **Community Health Needs Assessments:** These assessments highlight the specific health challenges and needs of the local population, providing context for the services offered.

**Hospital Profiles and Assessments:**

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

Located approximately 20-25 minutes from Parsons, Davis Medical Center (DMC) is a crucial healthcare provider for the region. DMC is the closest full-service hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** DMC currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.
* **Emergency Room:** Publicly available data suggests average ER wait times are in line with national averages. However, wait times can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in periods of high patient volume.
* **Specialty Centers:** DMC offers a range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical services. They have a dedicated cancer center and offer various outpatient clinics.
* **Telehealth:** DMC has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options, particularly for chronic disease management.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews are mixed, with some praising the staff's compassion and others citing concerns about wait times and communication.
* **Accreditation:** DMC is accredited by The Joint Commission, demonstrating a commitment to quality standards.
* **Community Health:** DMC actively participates in community health initiatives and conducts regular community health needs assessments to address local health challenges.
* **Overall Health Score:** **7.0/10**. DMC is a vital resource, offering a range of services. However, the 3-star CMS rating and mixed patient reviews indicate areas for improvement. The telehealth initiatives are a positive step, especially for a rural area.

**2. Mon Health Preston Memorial Hospital (Kingwood, WV):**

Located approximately 40-45 minutes from Parsons, Preston Memorial Hospital is another option for residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Preston Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times are generally comparable to DMC, but can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume.
* **Specialty Centers:** Preston Memorial offers a range of services, including cardiology, general surgery, and orthopedics.
* **Telehealth:** Preston Memorial has invested in telehealth to provide remote care options.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews are mixed, with some praising the staff's compassion and others citing concerns about wait times and communication.
* **Accreditation:** Preston Memorial is accredited by The Joint Commission.
* **Community Health:** Preston Memorial actively participates in community health initiatives.
* **Overall Health Score:** **6.8/10**. Preston Memorial is a solid option, but its CMS rating and patient reviews are similar to DMC. Telehealth is a growing area.

**3. WVU Medicine facilities (Various Locations):**

WVU Medicine is a large healthcare system with several facilities within a reasonable driving distance, including facilities in Morgantown, WV. These facilities offer a broader range of specialized services.

* **CMS Star Ratings:** WVU Medicine hospitals have varying CMS star ratings, ranging from 3 to 5 stars, depending on the specific facility.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the location and the specific facility. The flagship hospital in Morgantown generally has longer wait times.
* **Specialty Centers:** WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including advanced cardiology, cancer care, and transplant services.
* **Telehealth:** WVU Medicine has a robust telehealth program, offering a wide array of virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews are mixed, with positive feedback on specialized care and concerns about wait times and patient experience in some facilities.
* **Accreditation:** WVU Medicine facilities are accredited by various organizations, including The Joint Commission.
* **Community Health:** WVU Medicine actively engages in community health initiatives.
* **Overall Health Score:** **7.5/10** (Varies by location). WVU Medicine offers a broader range of specialized services, but travel time and potential wait times can be significant. The telehealth program is a major advantage.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in the area, providing an alternative for non-life-threatening conditions. These centers typically have shorter wait times than hospital ERs.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is crucial for preventive care and ongoing health management.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services can be limited in rural areas. It's essential to inquire about mental health resources and support networks.
* **Transportation:** Transportation challenges are common in rural areas. Consider transportation options, such as family, friends, or local transportation services, to access healthcare.

**Telehealth's Growing Importance:**

Telehealth is a game-changer for rural healthcare. It reduces the need for travel, expands access to specialists, and allows for remote monitoring of chronic conditions. When considering healthcare options, prioritize facilities with robust telehealth programs.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Rural West Virginia:**

Healthcare access near Parsons, WV, presents unique challenges. While options are limited, Davis Medical Center and Preston Memorial Hospital offer essential services. WVU Medicine facilities provide access to specialized care, but travel time is a factor. Telehealth is a critical resource for improving access. Residents should proactively establish relationships with primary care physicians, explore telehealth options, and understand the available resources to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the complexities of the area, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and proactive healthcare management. Residents should always call 911 in the event of a medical emergency.