26411, New Milton, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26411, New Milton, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26411

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 26411, offering a snapshot of key performance indicators to help you make informed decisions. We'll analyze factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, aiming to provide a clear and concise assessment of each facility. Keep in mind that this review is based on publicly available data and may not reflect the entirety of each hospital's services.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 26411 primarily encompasses the city of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and surrounding areas. This region's healthcare needs are met by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional facilities. Access to specialized care and advanced technology can vary, making careful evaluation crucial. The "Overall Health Score" considers these factors, providing a comparative perspective.

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

St. Joseph's Hospital, located directly within ZIP code 26411, is a critical access hospital. This designation indicates a smaller facility often serving rural communities. As of the latest available data, St. Joseph's Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. Critical access hospitals are not always rated due to their specific operational models.

Emergency Room wait times at St. Joseph's Hospital are a key consideration. Publicly available data suggests average wait times can fluctuate, often depending on the time of day and patient volume. Patients should anticipate potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

St. Joseph's offers a range of services, including a 24-hour emergency department, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital also provides physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. While it serves as a crucial access point for local residents, specialized care may necessitate transfer to larger regional facilities.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. St. Joseph's Hospital offers some telehealth options, but the breadth and scope of these services should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Telehealth can provide access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable locally.

**Overall Health Score for St. Joseph's Hospital:** Considering its critical access status, St. Joseph's Hospital provides essential services to the local community. However, the absence of a CMS star rating and the potential for longer ER wait times necessitate a thorough evaluation of individual healthcare needs. Access to specialized care might require travel to larger facilities.

**United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV)**

Approximately 30 miles from Buckhannon, United Hospital Center (UHC) in Clarksburg, WV, serves as a regional referral center. UHC is a larger facility, often offering a broader range of specialized services. UHC has a 3-star rating from CMS.

ER wait times at UHC are generally longer than those at smaller facilities. The hospital’s larger size and higher patient volume contribute to this. Patients should be prepared for potentially extended wait times, especially during peak periods.

UHC boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including a heart center, a cancer center, and a women's health center. The hospital also offers advanced imaging services, surgical suites, and intensive care units. Its larger scale allows for more sophisticated treatment options.

Telehealth services are actively utilized at UHC. The hospital provides telehealth consultations across various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. This expands access to specialists for patients who might live a significant distance from the hospital.

**Overall Health Score for United Hospital Center:** UHC offers a wider range of services and specialized care compared to St. Joseph's Hospital. Its 3-star CMS rating indicates a moderate level of overall quality. While ER wait times can be longer, the hospital's comprehensive offerings make it a strong option for many healthcare needs.

**WVU Medicine – Camden Clark Medical Center (Parkersburg, WV)**

Located approximately 60 miles from Buckhannon, WVU Medicine – Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, WV, is another significant regional hospital. Camden Clark Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.

ER wait times at Camden Clark Medical Center are comparable to those at UHC, often influenced by patient volume and the complexity of cases. Expect potential wait times, especially during peak hours or for non-emergency situations.

Camden Clark Medical Center offers a broad spectrum of services, including a cardiac catheterization lab, a comprehensive cancer center, and a women's and children's health center. The hospital also provides advanced surgical capabilities and intensive care units.

Telehealth services are available at Camden Clark Medical Center, offering patients access to specialists through virtual consultations. The specific specialties available through telehealth should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Overall Health Score for WVU Medicine – Camden Clark Medical Center:** Camden Clark Medical Center provides a robust range of services, making it a viable option for residents near ZIP code 26411. The 3-star CMS rating indicates a moderate level of quality. The distance from Buckhannon is a factor to consider, but the hospital's comprehensive offerings may outweigh travel time for certain needs.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Beyond the "Overall Health Score," several factors should influence your decision:

* **Your Specific Needs:** The best hospital depends on your individual health concerns. If you require specialized care, research hospitals with relevant specialty centers and experienced physicians.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network to avoid unexpected costs.
* **Physician Referrals:** Consult your primary care physician for recommendations. They can provide valuable insights based on your medical history.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can offer insights into patient experiences, but remember to consider the source and potential biases.
* **Proximity:** Consider travel time, especially in emergencies. However, don't let distance be the sole determining factor, particularly if specialized care is needed.

**The Limitations of This Review**

This review relies on publicly available data, which may have limitations. CMS star ratings are based on specific metrics and do not capture the full spectrum of hospital quality. ER wait times can fluctuate. Always verify information directly with the hospital.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 26411, St. Joseph's Hospital provides essential local services, while United Hospital Center and WVU Medicine – Camden Clark Medical Center offer more comprehensive care and specialized services. The "Overall Health Score" provides a starting point for your research. Consider your individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and physician recommendations to make the most informed decision. Remember to always verify information directly with the hospitals.