26278, Mabie, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26278, Mabie, West Virginia is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26278 (Parsons, WV)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near Parsons, West Virginia (ZIP code 26278), access to quality medical care is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals within a reasonable radius, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. Given the rural nature of the area, the focus will be on hospitals that are realistically accessible for residents of Parsons.

**Primary Considerations: Accessibility and Proximity**

The geography of West Virginia dictates that residents of Parsons will likely rely on hospitals within a driving distance of one to two hours. This review will primarily focus on facilities in Elkins, Buckhannon, and potentially Morgantown, recognizing that travel times can vary significantly depending on weather and road conditions.

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

Davis Medical Center (DMC) in Elkins is a key healthcare provider for the region. It is the closest major hospital to Parsons, making it a primary choice for many residents. DMC holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it’s important to understand the limitations of these ratings, as they are a snapshot in time and don't always capture the full scope of a hospital's capabilities.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for assessing healthcare access. Publicly available data suggests that ER wait times at DMC can fluctuate. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, particularly during peak hours or in the event of a surge in patient volume. DMC's website or local resources may provide more current wait time information.

**Specialty Services:** DMC offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They also provide labor and delivery services. The availability of these services is crucial for addressing a variety of medical needs within the community. DMC has been expanding its services in recent years, including a new cancer center.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. DMC offers telehealth services, which can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, specialist consultations, and mental health services. The extent and availability of these services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Overall Health Score for Davis Medical Center:** Considering its proximity, range of services, and CMS rating, Davis Medical Center earns a solid "B" for residents of Parsons. It serves as a critical access point for healthcare, though patients should be aware of potential wait times and the limitations of its CMS rating.

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

Located in Buckhannon, St. Joseph's Hospital is another option within a reasonable driving distance for residents of Parsons. St. Joseph's Hospital is affiliated with WVU Medicine. It currently holds a **3-star rating from CMS**, similar to Davis Medical Center.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** ER wait times at St. Joseph's can also vary. Checking with the hospital or local resources for up-to-date wait time information is advisable.

**Specialty Services:** St. Joseph's offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They also provide labor and delivery services. The hospital is part of a larger healthcare network, which can provide access to additional resources and expertise.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** St. Joseph's, as part of WVU Medicine, has robust telehealth capabilities. This is a significant advantage, providing access to specialists and virtual consultations.

**Overall Health Score for St. Joseph's Hospital:** St. Joseph's earns a "B" as a viable alternative to Davis Medical Center. Its affiliation with WVU Medicine provides access to a broader network of specialists and telehealth resources.

**Hospital C: WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV)**

WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown is a major tertiary care center, approximately a two-hour drive from Parsons. It is the flagship hospital of the WVU Medicine system and a Level I Trauma Center. **Ruby Memorial Hospital boasts a 4-star CMS rating.** This rating reflects its higher performance across various quality metrics compared to the other hospitals discussed.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** Ruby Memorial's ER is a high-volume facility, and wait times can be longer than those at smaller hospitals. However, as a Level I Trauma Center, it is equipped to handle the most critical cases.

**Specialty Services:** Ruby Memorial offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including advanced cardiology, neurosurgery, oncology, and transplant services. This level of specialization is a major advantage for patients with complex medical needs.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Ruby Memorial has extensive telehealth capabilities, leveraging the resources of the WVU Medicine system. This includes virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.

**Overall Health Score for WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital:** Ruby Memorial receives an "A" rating. While a longer drive from Parsons, it offers a higher level of care and access to specialized services. It is a crucial resource for complex medical cases.

**Other Considerations: Physician Availability and Healthcare Access**

Beyond hospital ratings and services, the availability of physicians and healthcare access are vital. Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. Residents of Parsons should consider the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers in their area.

**Access to Primary Care:** The presence of local primary care physicians is essential for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. Residents should inquire about the availability of primary care providers accepting new patients.

**Specialist Availability:** Access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is crucial for addressing specific medical needs. Patients may need to travel to larger hospitals like Ruby Memorial for certain specialist consultations.

**Healthcare Access Challenges:** Rural areas often face challenges related to transportation, insurance coverage, and socioeconomic factors. Residents of Parsons should be aware of these potential barriers to healthcare access and seek assistance if needed.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Healthcare**

For residents near ZIP code 26278, the healthcare landscape offers a mix of options. Davis Medical Center and St. Joseph's Hospital provide convenient access to essential services. WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital offers a higher level of care for complex medical needs. The "Overall Health Score" assessment emphasizes that each hospital has its strengths and weaknesses. Residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, proximity, and access to specialists when making decisions about their care. A proactive approach to healthcare, including regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers, is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.