26443, Troy, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26443, Troy, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26443

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near the 26443 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics like quality, accessibility, and specialized services. This analysis aims to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options available to residents, empowering informed decision-making.

**Defining the Scope:**

The 26443 ZIP code primarily encompasses the town of Philippi, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. Therefore, this review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like population density and regional healthcare networks. The primary focus will be on hospitals that are likely to serve as primary care and emergency service providers for the 26443 area.

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

United Hospital Center (UHC), located in nearby Clarksburg, WV, emerges as a central healthcare provider for the region. UHC is a large, regional hospital, offering a comprehensive range of services. Its size and scope make it a crucial point of access for specialized care.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators:**

UHC's performance is reflected in its Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating. CMS uses a five-star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on various quality measures. As of the latest available data, UHC's star rating is a three-star rating. This rating indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. It is important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can fluctuate.

Key quality indicators to consider include:

* **Mortality Rates:** CMS tracks mortality rates for various conditions. Comparing UHC's mortality rates to national averages provides insight into the hospital's ability to effectively treat serious illnesses.
* **Readmission Rates:** High readmission rates can signal issues with post-discharge care or the effectiveness of initial treatment. Analyzing UHC's readmission rates for common conditions is crucial.
* **Patient Experience:** CMS assesses patient satisfaction through surveys. These surveys gauge patient experiences with communication, responsiveness, and overall care.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. UHC's ER wait times are a significant metric. The average wait time, from the time a patient arrives until they are seen by a healthcare professional, is a key indicator of ER efficiency. Examining the percentage of patients seen within a certain timeframe (e.g., within 30 minutes) provides further insight.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

UHC boasts a variety of specialty centers, catering to diverse medical needs. These include:

* **Heart and Vascular Center:** Providing services for cardiovascular health, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.
* **Cancer Center:** Offering comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), and support services.
* **Women's Health Center:** Providing obstetrical and gynecological services, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and women's health screenings.
* **Orthopedic Services:** Addressing musculoskeletal conditions, including joint replacements, sports medicine, and rehabilitation.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas. UHC likely offers telehealth options, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. The availability of telehealth services for primary care, specialist consultations, and follow-up appointments can improve patient convenience and reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

Beyond UHC, residents of the 26443 area may consider other hospitals, including those in Morgantown and Fairmont, WV. These facilities may offer specialized services or serve as referral points for specific medical needs.

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

Located approximately an hour's drive from Philippi, Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown provides a broader range of specialized services. It is affiliated with West Virginia University (WVU) Medicine. Mon Health has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Fairmont Regional Medical Center (Fairmont, WV):**

Fairmont Regional Medical Center, located closer to the 26443 area, may offer a more convenient option for some residents. However, the hospital closed in 2019.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a comprehensive assessment based on various factors.

* **Accessibility:** Proximity to the hospital, travel time, and ease of access are crucial considerations.
* **Quality of Care:** CMS star ratings, mortality rates, readmission rates, and patient experience scores provide insights into the quality of care.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of specialty centers and services (e.g., cardiology, oncology, orthopedics) is essential for addressing specific medical needs.
* **ER Performance:** ER wait times and efficiency are critical for patients requiring immediate medical attention.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services enhance access to care, particularly for rural populations.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

When choosing a hospital, residents of the 26443 area should consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences. Factors to weigh include:

* **Primary Care Physician Referrals:** Consult with your primary care physician for recommendations and referrals to specialists.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are within your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors such as hospital size, location, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure that the hospital has a well-equipped ER and is prepared to handle medical emergencies.

**Conclusion:**

United Hospital Center in Clarksburg, WV, serves as a primary healthcare hub for the 26443 area. While its CMS star rating reflects average performance, the hospital's comprehensive services, including its specialty centers and telehealth options, make it a valuable resource. Residents should also consider Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown for specialized care. Careful consideration of individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences is essential when making healthcare decisions. By evaluating the factors outlined in this review, residents of the 26443 ZIP code can make informed choices about their healthcare needs. Continued monitoring of CMS ratings, ER wait times, and service offerings is recommended to stay abreast of evolving healthcare options.