26366, Haywood, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26366, Haywood, West Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26366 (West Virginia)

The search for quality healthcare near ZIP code 26366, encompassing the city of Philippi, West Virginia, reveals a landscape dominated by regional healthcare systems and a need for careful consideration. This review provides an overall health score, factoring in CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other crucial metrics to guide informed healthcare decisions. Access to care in this area is influenced by its rural setting, requiring a focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.

**The Primary Players: United Hospital Center and Broaddus Hospital**

The two primary hospitals serving the Philippi area are United Hospital Center (UHC) in Bridgeport, and Broaddus Hospital in Philippi itself. Each presents a distinct profile, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is essential.

**United Hospital Center (Bridgeport, WV): A Regional Hub**

United Hospital Center (UHC), located approximately 30 minutes from Philippi, is a significant regional player. It is a 327-bed facility and is part of WVU Medicine. UHC’s size and affiliation with a larger healthcare system provide access to a broader range of services and specialists than smaller, independent hospitals.

**CMS Star Rating:** UHC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it is crucial to delve deeper into specific areas to understand UHC's strengths and weaknesses.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for any hospital. While specific, publicly available data for UHC's ER wait times can fluctuate, it is vital to check current data through sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website or other reliable sources. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** UHC boasts a range of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cardiac center, a cancer center, and a women's health center. These centers offer specialized care for specific medical needs. The hospital also provides a full range of surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures. UHC's affiliation with WVU Medicine provides access to a wider network of specialists and advanced medical technologies.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. UHC offers telehealth options, including virtual visits with specialists and remote monitoring programs. This can be a significant advantage for patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital for routine appointments or follow-up care. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients.

**Broaddus Hospital (Philippi, WV): A Community Focus**

Broaddus Hospital, located directly in Philippi, is a smaller, 25-bed critical access hospital. It serves as a vital community resource, providing essential healthcare services to the local population.

**CMS Star Rating:** Broaddus Hospital's CMS star rating is not publicly available. Critical access hospitals are often evaluated differently than larger facilities, focusing on specific metrics relevant to their role in providing essential services in rural areas.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** As a critical access hospital, Broaddus Hospital likely has shorter ER wait times compared to larger facilities like UHC. However, it is important to note that the ER may be less equipped to handle complex medical emergencies.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Broaddus Hospital focuses on providing core services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialty services. It may have limited access to specialized services compared to UHC. The hospital often relies on partnerships and referrals to access specialized care for its patients.

**Telehealth Availability:** Broaddus Hospital likely offers telehealth services, particularly for primary care and specialist consultations. This can be a valuable tool for patients in rural areas to access healthcare services without traveling long distances.

**Other Hospitals to Consider (Within a Reasonable Radius)**

While UHC and Broaddus Hospital are the primary options, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance might offer specialized services or be preferable depending on individual needs.

**Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (Weston, WV):** Located approximately 45 minutes from Philippi, Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital is a 70-bed facility. It offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and rehabilitation. Its CMS star rating and specific performance metrics should be researched to determine its suitability for individual healthcare needs.

**Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV):** Located approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Philippi, Mon Health Medical Center is a larger hospital affiliated with Mon Health System. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Its CMS star rating and specific performance metrics should be researched to determine its suitability for individual healthcare needs.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

Several factors contribute to the overall health score for hospitals near ZIP code 26366. These factors include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the sole indicator of quality, CMS star ratings provide a valuable overview of a hospital's performance based on various quality metrics.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter ER wait times are crucial for timely access to care, particularly in emergency situations.
* **Specialty Center Availability:** The presence of specialized centers, such as cardiac centers or cancer centers, indicates the hospital's capacity to provide specialized care.
* **Telehealth Services:** Telehealth services improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas, and can reduce the burden of travel.
* **Hospital Size and Affiliation:** Larger hospitals affiliated with major healthcare systems often offer a broader range of services and access to specialists.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Specific Considerations for Philippi Residents**

Residents of Philippi face unique challenges in accessing healthcare due to the area's rural setting. Long travel times to hospitals and specialists can be a significant barrier to care. Telehealth services are particularly valuable in this context, allowing patients to receive care remotely.

**Recommendations for Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital near ZIP code 26366, consider the following:

* **Your Specific Needs:** Determine your healthcare needs and choose a hospital that offers the required services and specialties.
* **CMS Star Ratings and Performance Metrics:** Review CMS star ratings and other performance metrics to assess the hospital's quality of care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check current ER wait times to estimate the time it may take to receive care in an emergency.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Inquire about telehealth services to determine if they are available for your needs.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Read patient reviews and satisfaction scores to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Proximity and Travel Time:** Consider the distance and travel time to the hospital, particularly in emergency situations.
* **Consult Your Primary Care Physician:** Discuss your healthcare needs and preferences with your primary care physician, who can provide recommendations and referrals.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 26366 presents a mix of options, with United Hospital Center serving as a regional hub and Broaddus Hospital providing essential community services. Careful consideration of CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and individual healthcare needs is crucial for making informed decisions. By researching the available options and consulting with healthcare providers, residents of Philippi can navigate the healthcare landscape and access the care they need. Ongoing monitoring of hospital performance and evolving healthcare services is essential to make the best decisions for your health.