26346, Ellenboro, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26346, Ellenboro, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Bridgeport, WV (ZIP Code 26346)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Bridgeport, West Virginia (ZIP code 26346), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We’ll examine factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, offering a comprehensive picture of each facility's strengths and weaknesses.

**The Landscape: A Regional Overview**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Bridgeport area are clustered around the city of Clarksburg, a short drive away. These hospitals cater to a population with diverse healthcare needs, including a significant elderly population and a growing number of young families. The region is grappling with the challenges of rural healthcare, including physician shortages and access to specialized services.

**United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV): A Deep Dive**

United Hospital Center (UHC), located in Clarksburg, is the flagship hospital serving the region. It's a major player, offering a wide range of services and serving as a regional referral center. UHC is part of WVU Medicine, a large healthcare system, which provides it with significant resources and a network of specialists.

UHC's performance is a mixed bag. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), UHC currently holds a **3-star rating**. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Examining specific areas reveals more. UHC’s emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial factor. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, UHC generally experiences **ER wait times that are within the national average, but can sometimes be longer, particularly during peak hours or periods of high patient volume**. Patients should be prepared for potential delays.

UHC boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. They have a well-regarded **cardiology program**, providing services from diagnostics to interventional procedures. Their **cancer center** offers a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. UHC also features a **women's health center**, providing obstetrical and gynecological services. Furthermore, UHC has a **dedicated stroke center**, recognized for its rapid response and treatment protocols.

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. UHC has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. **Telehealth availability varies by specialty and patient need, but UHC is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities**. This is particularly beneficial for patients in remote areas who may have difficulty traveling for appointments.

**Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (Weston, WV): A Community Focus**

Located in Weston, approximately a 30-minute drive from Bridgeport, Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (SJM) provides a more community-focused healthcare experience. It serves a smaller population and offers a more intimate setting.

SJM’s CMS star rating is **currently unavailable**. This can sometimes indicate a hospital is too small to be rated, or has not been rated recently.

SJM's ER wait times are generally **shorter than those at UHC**, reflecting the lower patient volume. However, this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. Patients seeking emergency care can expect relatively quick attention.

SJM provides essential services, including general medical care, surgical procedures, and a labor and delivery unit. They also offer **specialized services like physical therapy and rehabilitation**. While they don't have the same breadth of specialty centers as UHC, SJM focuses on providing quality care for common medical needs.

Telehealth at SJM is **available, but to a lesser extent than at UHC**. They offer some virtual consultations and remote monitoring, but the scope of telehealth services is more limited.

**Brooke County Hospital (Wellsburg, WV): A Regional Option**

Brooke County Hospital is located further afield, in Wellsburg, WV, but is sometimes a viable option for residents of the Bridgeport area, particularly for specific services.

Brooke County Hospital's CMS star rating is **currently unavailable.**

ER wait times at Brooke County Hospital are **variable and can be longer than those at UHC or SJM**. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak times.

Brooke County Hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. They have a **cardiology program** and offer **surgical services**.

Telehealth availability at Brooke County Hospital is **limited**.

**Other Considerations: Access and Transportation**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, access to care is a critical factor. The Bridgeport area is served by a network of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics. However, **access to certain specialists may require travel to Clarksburg or Morgantown**.

Transportation is another consideration. Public transportation options are limited in the Bridgeport area. Patients, particularly those without personal vehicles, may face challenges accessing healthcare services. **Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available but may have limited availability in some areas**.

**Overall Health Score: Summary and Recommendations**

Based on the data, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Bridgeport, WV, is as follows:

* **United Hospital Center (UHC):** A solid choice with a wide range of services, but with average CMS star ratings and variable ER wait times. Its strengths lie in its specialty centers and expanding telehealth offerings. **Score: 7/10**
* **Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (SJM):** A good option for basic care and shorter ER wait times, but with a more limited range of specialty services. **Score: 6/10**
* **Brooke County Hospital:** A regional option, but with potentially longer ER wait times and limited telehealth. **Score: 5/10**

**Recommendations:**

* **For comprehensive care and specialized services, UHC is the primary choice.** Be prepared for potential ER wait times.
* **For quicker ER attention and a more community-focused setting, SJM is a good option.**
* **Consider Brooke County Hospital for specific services, but be mindful of potential wait times and limited telehealth.**
* **Before seeking emergency care, consider calling ahead to the hospital to inquire about current wait times.**
* **Explore telehealth options, especially for follow-up appointments or routine consultations.**
* **Plan for transportation needs, particularly if you do not have a personal vehicle.**
* **Consult with your primary care physician for referrals to specialists and guidance on the best healthcare options for your specific needs.**

This "Overall Health Score" provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape near Bridgeport, WV. The best choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare. Remember to always verify the most up-to-date information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and this review reflects the information available at the time of writing.