26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26273

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of ZIP code 26273, which encompasses the town of Parsons, West Virginia, understanding the available medical resources is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in the immediate and surrounding areas, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Defining the Landscape: Key Considerations**

The healthcare landscape in this region is significantly influenced by its rural setting. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas, and the availability of specialized care, becomes a critical factor. The "Overall Health Score" takes into account the accessibility of services, the quality of care as measured by external agencies, and the breadth of medical offerings.

**The Flagship: Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV)**

While not directly within the 26273 ZIP code, Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown, West Virginia, is the closest major hospital and serves as a regional hub for advanced medical care. This facility holds a commendable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a strong performance in key quality metrics. This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Mon Health Medical Center boasts a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a robust cardiology program, and specialized centers for cancer treatment and women's health. They have a dedicated stroke center, which is crucial in a region where timely intervention is critical.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant indicator of hospital efficiency. While specific wait times fluctuate, Mon Health Medical Center generally reports wait times that are in line with, or slightly better than, the national average. This is a critical factor, especially in emergency situations.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Recognizing the challenges of rural healthcare access, Mon Health Medical Center has invested in telehealth services. They offer virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and online access to medical records. This is a significant advantage for residents of 26273, as it allows them to access specialized care without extensive travel.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Mon Health Medical Center has a wide range of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center offering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. Their cardiology program offers advanced cardiac procedures, including angioplasty and open-heart surgery. They also have a dedicated women's health center providing a full spectrum of services, from obstetrics and gynecology to mammography and bone density screenings.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity:**

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

Located in Elkins, West Virginia, Davis Medical Center is another important healthcare provider serving the region. This hospital is closer to 26273 than Mon Health Medical Center. While Davis Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating, it is a critical access hospital, which is a designation for rural hospitals that provide essential services.

Davis Medical Center offers a range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, and a labor and delivery unit. They have a strong focus on community health and provide various outreach programs.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times at Davis Medical Center are generally shorter than those at Mon Health Medical Center, reflecting its smaller size and potentially lower patient volume. However, this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Davis Medical Center has begun to integrate telehealth services, particularly for specialist consultations. This is a growing area of focus for the hospital, as they aim to improve access to care for their patients.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Davis Medical Center has a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a dedicated wound care center. They also have a rehabilitation center providing physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

**Brooke County Hospital (Wellsburg, WV):**

Located further north, Brooke County Hospital is another option, though less accessible for residents of 26273. Brooke County Hospital is a critical access hospital and offers a range of services.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times at Brooke County Hospital can vary.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Brooke County Hospital is also working to integrate telehealth services.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Brooke County Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including general surgery, cardiology, and orthopedics.

**Factors Impacting the Overall Health Score:**

Several factors influence the "Overall Health Score" for the hospitals serving the 26273 ZIP code. These include:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital is a critical factor, especially in emergency situations.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a standardized measure of hospital quality.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** These times are an important indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and trauma services, is essential.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and surveys provide insights into the patient experience.
* **Community Health Needs:** Hospitals that address specific health needs in the community receive additional credit.

**Analyzing the Data: A Comparative Assessment**

Mon Health Medical Center, due to its 4-star CMS rating and comprehensive range of services, emerges as the highest-scoring hospital. Its proximity to Morgantown, however, requires travel for residents of 26273. Davis Medical Center, with its shorter travel time, offers a valuable local option, particularly for emergency care. Brooke County Hospital is a less accessible option.

**Specific Considerations for 26273 Residents:**

Residents of 26273 should consider the following when choosing a hospital:

* **Emergency Care:** For immediate emergencies, Davis Medical Center may be the closest and most accessible option. However, the Level II Trauma Center at Mon Health Medical Center is a significant advantage in the event of a severe injury.
* **Specialty Care:** For specialized care, Mon Health Medical Center offers a wider range of services.
* **Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services offered by both Mon Health Medical Center and Davis Medical Center to access specialist consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Transportation:** Consider the availability of transportation, especially for those without personal vehicles.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider personal preferences regarding hospital size, patient experience, and physician relationships.

**The Role of Telehealth in Rural Healthcare:**

Telehealth plays a vital role in bridging the healthcare gap for residents of 26273. It allows patients to access specialists, receive remote monitoring, and manage chronic conditions without the burden of long travel times. Hospitals are increasingly investing in telehealth infrastructure and services.

**The Importance of Proactive Healthcare:**

Beyond choosing a hospital, residents of 26273 should prioritize proactive healthcare measures. This includes regular checkups, screenings, and preventative care. Working with a primary care physician is crucial for coordinating care and managing chronic conditions.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 26273 highlights a landscape where access to quality care is a blend of proximity and specialization. Mon Health Medical Center, with its higher CMS rating and comprehensive services, offers a strong option for advanced care. Davis Medical Center provides a valuable local resource, particularly for emergency needs. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs, the available services, and the convenience of each hospital when making healthcare decisions. By understanding the available resources and taking a proactive approach to their health, residents of 26273 can navigate the healthcare maze with greater confidence and ensure they receive the best possible care.