26705, Aurora, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26705, Aurora, West Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26705

This review provides an overall health score assessment for hospitals located near the 26705 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center availability, and telehealth services. The goal is to offer a comprehensive, fact-based overview to aid informed healthcare decisions.

**Geographic Context and Healthcare Landscape**

The 26705 ZIP code encompasses the city of Keyser, West Virginia, and surrounding areas. This region is primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering the rural nature of the area. Access to specialized care and advanced medical technologies can be a challenge in such settings, making hospital quality and accessibility paramount.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance**

The primary hospital serving the 26705 area is Potomac Valley Hospital, located in Keyser. This facility is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special Medicare funding due to its rural location and limited resources. As such, it is not subject to the same CMS star rating system as larger, more complex hospitals. This distinction is crucial when comparing Potomac Valley Hospital to other facilities.

**Potomac Valley Hospital: A Critical Access Overview**

Potomac Valley Hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient medical and surgical care, and various outpatient clinics. While a CMS star rating is unavailable, the hospital's performance can be assessed through other metrics. The hospital's ER wait times are generally reported to be moderate, with data varying depending on the time of day and the severity of patient cases. Specific wait time data is available on the hospital's website and through online healthcare platforms.

The hospital provides essential services for the community, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and physical therapy. It also has a dedicated surgical unit, which performs a variety of procedures. Telehealth services are increasingly being integrated to improve access to specialized care.

**Beyond Potomac Valley: Regional Hospital Options**

Residents of the 26705 area also frequently seek care at hospitals in nearby cities, particularly Cumberland, Maryland, and Morgantown, West Virginia. These facilities offer a broader range of specialties and advanced medical technologies.

**UPMC Western Maryland (Cumberland, MD): A Regional Powerhouse**

Located approximately a 30-minute drive from Keyser, UPMC Western Maryland is a significant regional hospital. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating indicates that the hospital's overall performance is considered average compared to other hospitals nationwide.

UPMC Western Maryland's emergency department sees a high volume of patients, and wait times can vary. Data from the hospital's website and third-party sources indicate average ER wait times, but these can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume.

The hospital has a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. It also offers advanced imaging services and a robust surgical program. UPMC Western Maryland has invested in telehealth services, expanding access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities. Telehealth appointments and virtual consultations are becoming increasingly available.

**WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center (Martinsburg, WV): A Further Option**

While a bit further afield, WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg, West Virginia, is another option for residents in the 26705 area, approximately a 2-hour drive. This hospital also holds a 3-star CMS rating.

Berkeley Medical Center has a large emergency department and generally reports moderate wait times. The hospital's website and online platforms provide up-to-date information on ER wait times.

The hospital offers a broad spectrum of specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and oncology. It also has a dedicated cancer center and a comprehensive women's health program. Telehealth services are integrated to provide access to specialists and virtual consultations.

**Specialty Center Availability and Considerations**

The availability of specialized care is a crucial factor in assessing hospital quality. Residents of the 26705 area may need to travel to access certain specialties.

**Cardiology:** Both UPMC Western Maryland and Berkeley Medical Center offer cardiology services, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. Potomac Valley Hospital may refer patients requiring specialized cardiac care to these facilities.

**Oncology:** UPMC Western Maryland and Berkeley Medical Center have dedicated cancer centers, providing comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. Potomac Valley Hospital may offer limited cancer care services or refer patients to these larger centers.

**Orthopedics:** Both UPMC Western Maryland and Berkeley Medical Center have orthopedic departments, offering a full range of services, including joint replacements, sports medicine, and trauma care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in rural areas, as they can improve access to care and reduce the need for travel.

UPMC Western Maryland and Berkeley Medical Center have invested significantly in telehealth infrastructure. These hospitals offer virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services. Potomac Valley Hospital is also expanding its telehealth capabilities, partnering with larger hospitals to provide access to specialists.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a key indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Wait times can vary depending on the hospital, the time of day, and the volume of patients.

UPMC Western Maryland and Berkeley Medical Center report their ER wait times on their websites and through online healthcare platforms. Potomac Valley Hospital also provides this information. Checking these resources before seeking emergency care can help patients manage their expectations.

**Overall Health Score Summary and Recommendations**

The overall health score for hospitals near the 26705 ZIP code is influenced by the availability of services, the quality of care, and the accessibility of specialists.

* **Potomac Valley Hospital:** Provides essential services for the local community. While it lacks a CMS star rating, it is a critical access hospital and offers essential services. Residents should be aware of its limitations in specialized care.
* **UPMC Western Maryland:** Offers a broader range of specialties and advanced medical technologies. It has a 3-star CMS rating. Residents should consider this facility for specialized care.
* **WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center:** Provides another option for more specialized care, with a 3-star CMS rating.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Routine Care:** Potomac Valley Hospital is a good option for routine medical needs and emergency care.
* **For Specialized Care:** UPMC Western Maryland and Berkeley Medical Center are recommended for specialized care, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth services to access specialists and manage chronic conditions.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Before going to the ER, check the wait times on hospital websites or online platforms.
* **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital, especially in emergency situations.

This review provides a factual overview of the healthcare landscape near the 26705 ZIP code. It is crucial to consider individual healthcare needs and consult with a primary care physician when making healthcare decisions. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and patients should always verify information directly with the hospitals.