26543, Osage, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26543, Osage, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26543

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near the 26543 ZIP code, focusing on Morgantown, West Virginia, and surrounding areas. We’ll examine key metrics, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to offer a comprehensive picture. Note that hospital performance is dynamic, and this review reflects data available as of late October 2024.

**Core Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a composite evaluation considering various factors. These include patient safety, quality of care, patient experience, and access to services. Data sources include the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, publicly available reports, and third-party ratings.

**The Flagship: WVU Medicine – J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital**

The undisputed leader in the region is WVU Medicine – J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, located in Morgantown. This is the flagship hospital for the WVU Medicine system, a large and integrated healthcare network. Ruby Memorial is a Level I Trauma Center, meaning it's equipped to handle the most critical injuries and illnesses.

**CMS Star Rating:** Ruby Memorial consistently receives a good CMS star rating. The most recent data indicates a four-star rating, reflecting above-average performance in several key areas. This rating is based on a complex formula evaluating mortality rates, readmission rates, patient safety, and patient experience.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a crucial factor. Ruby Memorial's ER typically experiences moderate wait times, often influenced by the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. Real-time wait times are usually available on the WVU Medicine website. The ER is open 24/7 and handles a high volume of patients, including those requiring specialized trauma care.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Ruby Memorial boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. These include the WVU Cancer Institute, the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute, and the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. These centers offer advanced treatments and research opportunities. The hospital also has a dedicated children's hospital, WVU Medicine Children's, providing specialized pediatric care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** WVU Medicine has a robust telehealth program. This includes virtual visits for primary care, specialist consultations, and remote monitoring programs. Telehealth is particularly valuable in a rural area like West Virginia, increasing access to specialists for patients in outlying communities. The system has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure and offers a wide range of virtual services.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

Beyond Ruby Memorial, several other hospitals serve the 26543 area and its surrounding communities. These offer varying levels of care and specialization.

**Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown):** Mon Health Medical Center is another major hospital in Morgantown, part of the Mon Health System. While not a Level I Trauma Center like Ruby Memorial, it provides a broad range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical departments.

**CMS Star Rating:** Mon Health Medical Center typically receives a good CMS star rating, often in the three-to-four-star range. This indicates a solid performance in key quality metrics.

**ER Performance:** ER wait times at Mon Health are generally comparable to those at Ruby Memorial, though they can fluctuate based on patient volume. Real-time wait time information is usually available on the Mon Health website.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Mon Health offers a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. It has a well-regarded maternity ward and provides comprehensive care for a wide range of medical conditions.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Mon Health also has a growing telehealth program, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring options. This helps expand access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Preston Memorial Hospital (Kingwood):** Located a short distance from Morgantown, Preston Memorial Hospital serves the community of Kingwood and surrounding areas. It is a smaller, community hospital, providing essential services, including emergency care, primary care, and some specialty services.

**CMS Star Rating:** Preston Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating can vary, reflecting the challenges faced by smaller hospitals in maintaining high performance across all metrics. It's important to check the most recent data available.

**ER Performance:** ER wait times at Preston Memorial are typically shorter than those at the larger hospitals in Morgantown, making it a convenient option for urgent care needs.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Preston Memorial provides essential services, including emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. While it doesn't have the extensive specialty centers of the larger hospitals, it offers a range of services to meet the needs of the local community.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Preston Memorial is expanding its telehealth offerings to improve access to specialists and remote consultations.

**Additional Considerations**

**Access to Care:** Geographic location is a critical factor in healthcare access. Residents of the 26543 ZIP code and surrounding areas have access to a range of hospitals, but travel times can vary depending on location and the need for specialized care.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction is a key component of overall health. Patient surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs are a significant concern. Hospital charges and insurance coverage vary. Patients should familiarize themselves with their insurance plans and understand the potential costs of care before seeking treatment.

**Hospital-Specific Information:** Always check the specific hospital's website for the most up-to-date information on services, hours of operation, and contact information.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score Assessment**

The hospitals near the 26543 ZIP code offer a range of healthcare options. Ruby Memorial Hospital, as the flagship, provides the most comprehensive services, including Level I trauma care and advanced specialty centers. Mon Health Medical Center is a strong alternative, offering a broad range of services and a good CMS star rating. Preston Memorial Hospital provides essential care to the Kingwood community.

**Overall, the healthcare landscape in this area is strong, with a good mix of hospitals offering different levels of care. The presence of a Level I trauma center and a robust telehealth program significantly enhances access to care for residents of the region.**

**Recommendations:**

* **For critical or complex medical needs:** Ruby Memorial Hospital is the best choice.
* **For general medical needs and convenient access:** Mon Health Medical Center is a strong option.
* **For residents of Kingwood and surrounding areas:** Preston Memorial Hospital offers convenient local care.
* **Always check real-time ER wait times before going to the emergency room.**
* **Utilize telehealth options for convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and specialist consultations.**
* **Review your insurance coverage and understand your out-of-pocket costs before seeking medical care.**
* **Consult with your primary care physician for referrals and guidance on the best healthcare options for your individual needs.**