26753, Ridgeley, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26753, Ridgeley, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Moorefield, WV (ZIP Code 26753)

The health landscape surrounding Moorefield, West Virginia (ZIP code 26753) presents a tapestry of care options, ranging from local community hospitals to regional referral centers. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" requires a deep dive into various factors, including hospital quality, access to specialized services, emergency room performance, and the availability of telehealth options. This review examines the key players, offering a snapshot of the healthcare ecosystem accessible to residents in and around Moorefield.

**Local Anchors: Hampshire Memorial Hospital & Grant Memorial Hospital**

For residents of Moorefield, the closest hospital options are Hampshire Memorial Hospital in Romney, WV, and Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg, WV. These facilities serve as crucial access points for immediate medical needs and primary care. Hampshire Memorial Hospital, a critical access hospital, provides a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient services. Grant Memorial Hospital, also a critical access hospital, offers similar core services, focusing on serving the rural community. Both hospitals are vital for local residents.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a valuable, albeit simplified, metric for hospital quality: the star rating system. This system, based on a composite of various quality measures, assigns hospitals a rating from one to five stars. Neither Hampshire Memorial Hospital nor Grant Memorial Hospital currently have a CMS star rating. This doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but rather highlights the challenges smaller hospitals face in meeting the CMS reporting requirements. It is important to note that these hospitals may not have the resources to submit the data needed for the rating.

**Emergency Room Performance: Time is of the Essence**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of access and efficiency. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, understanding average wait times provides valuable insight. Unfortunately, publicly available data on ER wait times for Hampshire Memorial Hospital and Grant Memorial Hospital is limited. Patients should always call ahead or check online resources like Google or Healthgrades for the most current estimates.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Care**

The availability of specialized care is a key factor in the "Overall Health Score." Both Hampshire Memorial Hospital and Grant Memorial Hospital offer a selection of core services. However, for more complex conditions, residents may need to travel to larger regional centers.

**Regional Referral Centers: Expanding the Horizon**

Several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance from Moorefield offer a wider range of specialized services. These regional referral centers play a crucial role in providing advanced care.

**WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center (Martinsburg, WV):** Located approximately 90 miles from Moorefield, Berkeley Medical Center is a significant regional player. As part of the WVU Medicine system, it benefits from a broader network of specialists and resources. Berkeley Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical specialties. ER wait times can vary, so checking online resources is recommended.

**WVU Medicine – J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV):** Approximately 120 miles from Moorefield, J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital is the flagship hospital of the WVU Medicine system. This is a Level I Trauma Center and a major referral center for the region. Ruby Memorial consistently receives high marks for quality. It has a 3-star CMS rating. It offers a wide array of specialties, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and transplant services. ER wait times can be longer than at smaller facilities, reflecting its role as a major trauma center.

**UPMC Western Maryland (Cumberland, MD):** Located approximately 60 miles from Moorefield, UPMC Western Maryland is a significant regional hospital. This hospital is a major provider of care for the region. UPMC Western Maryland has a 3-star CMS rating. This hospital offers a broad range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and a comprehensive surgical program. ER wait times can vary, but are generally available on the UPMC website.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like the one surrounding Moorefield. It offers a way to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel. The availability of telehealth services varies among the hospitals mentioned. WVU Medicine has made significant investments in telehealth, offering a range of virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. UPMC Western Maryland also provides telehealth options. Local hospitals may offer some telehealth services, but access may be more limited.

**Specific Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general services, the availability of specific specialty centers and programs further defines the "Overall Health Score."

* **Cardiac Care:** Both Berkeley Medical Center and UPMC Western Maryland have established cardiology programs. Ruby Memorial Hospital offers advanced cardiac services, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery.
* **Cancer Care:** Berkeley Medical Center and UPMC Western Maryland provide comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Ruby Memorial Hospital has a dedicated cancer center with a full range of services.
* **Orthopedics:** All three regional hospitals offer orthopedic services, including joint replacement, sports medicine, and general orthopedics.
* **Behavioral Health:** Access to behavioral health services is a critical need. Berkeley Medical Center and UPMC Western Maryland offer behavioral health programs. Ruby Memorial Hospital also provides mental health services.

**Factors Impacting the Overall Health Score**

Several factors influence the "Overall Health Score" for residents near Moorefield.

* **Proximity:** The proximity of local hospitals provides immediate access to emergency care and primary care.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of specialized services at regional referral centers expands the range of care options.
* **Access to Specialists:** The ability to see specialists in a timely manner is crucial for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health issues.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth expands access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in accessing healthcare services.
* **Transportation:** Transportation limitations can impact access to care, particularly for those needing to travel to regional centers.
* **Community Health Needs:** Addressing the specific health needs of the community is essential.

**Conclusion: A Multifaceted Picture**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near Moorefield, WV, is a complex picture. While local hospitals provide essential services, access to specialized care requires travel to regional centers like Berkeley Medical Center, Ruby Memorial Hospital, and UPMC Western Maryland. The availability of telehealth services and the ongoing development of healthcare infrastructure will continue to shape the healthcare landscape in this region. Residents should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and transportation options when making healthcare decisions. Staying informed about hospital quality metrics, ER wait times, and available services is crucial for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring access to the best possible care.