26761, Shanks, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Romney, WV (ZIP Code 26761)

Romney, West Virginia, nestled in the scenic Potomac Highlands, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents of ZIP code 26761, encompassing Romney and surrounding areas, rely on a network of hospitals and healthcare providers to address their medical needs. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, specialty services, and telehealth offerings, to help residents make informed decisions. Due to the rural nature of the area, options are somewhat limited, but quality remains a priority.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance**

The primary hospital serving the Romney area is **Potomac Valley Hospital (PVH)**, located in Keyser, WV, approximately 20 miles from Romney. PVH is a critical access hospital, a designation designed to provide essential healthcare services in rural communities. This designation means it receives specific financial support from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Unfortunately, CMS does not assign star ratings to critical access hospitals, making direct comparisons to larger facilities challenging. However, it is important to note that critical access hospitals must meet specific quality standards to maintain their designation. PVH offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and various outpatient services.

Further afield, residents may consider hospitals in Cumberland, Maryland, approximately 30 miles from Romney. **UPMC Western Maryland** is a significant regional hospital. CMS gives UPMC Western Maryland a **3-star rating** as of November 2023. This rating reflects a hospital's overall performance based on various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. UPMC Western Maryland offers a broader range of specialized services than PVH, including cardiology, oncology, and advanced surgical procedures.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Accessibility**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital accessibility. Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources are used to assess wait times. While specific, real-time data for PVH's ER wait times is not readily available in public databases, it is important to call the hospital to get the most accurate information. UPMC Western Maryland, being a larger facility, often has more publicly available data on its ER wait times. It is important to check the hospital's website or use online tools like the UPMC Western Maryland website to get the most up-to-date information. These tools can provide estimates of current wait times, allowing patients to anticipate potential delays.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The availability of specialized medical services is a critical consideration for residents. PVH, as a critical access hospital, focuses on core services. Residents needing specialized care, such as advanced cardiology, oncology, or complex surgical procedures, may need to travel to UPMC Western Maryland or other regional hospitals. UPMC Western Maryland boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including a heart and vascular institute, a cancer center, and a comprehensive stroke center. These specialized centers provide access to advanced treatments and technologies.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care Options**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care can be challenging. Both PVH and UPMC Western Maryland offer telehealth services, though the extent of these services may vary. Telehealth can provide remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Residents should inquire with each hospital about the specific telehealth services they offer, including the types of appointments available and the technology used.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical indicator of healthcare quality. CMS uses patient surveys to measure patient satisfaction, including factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment. Patient satisfaction scores are factored into the CMS star ratings. UPMC Western Maryland's 3-star rating reflects its performance in this area. Patients can also consult online review platforms, such as Healthgrades and Google Reviews, to gather insights into other patients' experiences.

**Considerations for Specific Conditions**

Individuals with specific health conditions may have unique needs. For example, patients with heart conditions may prioritize access to a cardiac center. Cancer patients may seek hospitals with comprehensive oncology programs. Pregnant women should consider hospitals with obstetrics and gynecology services. It is essential for patients to research the specific services offered by each hospital and to consult with their primary care physicians to determine the best healthcare options for their individual needs.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

Healthcare costs and insurance coverage are crucial factors in healthcare decisions. Patients should verify that their insurance plans are accepted by the hospitals they are considering. They should also inquire about the estimated costs of services and any potential out-of-pocket expenses. The hospital's billing department can provide information on payment options and financial assistance programs.

**Community Health Needs Assessment**

Hospitals often conduct community health needs assessments to identify the most pressing health needs of the population they serve. These assessments can provide valuable insights into the healthcare challenges faced by residents of the Romney area. The assessments may highlight areas where healthcare services need improvement or where additional resources are needed.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available information, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Romney, WV, reflects a landscape where access to specialized services may require travel.

* **Potomac Valley Hospital (PVH):** Provides essential services as a critical access hospital, serving as a vital resource for the immediate Romney area. Its focus is on core services and emergency care.
* **UPMC Western Maryland:** Offers a broader range of specialized services and a 3-star CMS rating, making it a strong option for residents needing advanced care.

**Recommendations**

Residents of ZIP code 26761 should:

* **Prioritize preventative care:** Regular checkups and screenings are crucial for maintaining good health.
* **Establish a relationship with a primary care physician:** A primary care physician can coordinate care and refer patients to specialists as needed.
* **Research hospital options:** Investigate the services offered by both PVH and UPMC Western Maryland, considering their specific healthcare needs.
* **Utilize telehealth services:** Explore telehealth options for convenient access to healthcare.
* **Consider travel for specialized care:** Be prepared to travel to regional hospitals for specialized treatments.
* **Inquire about ER wait times:** Call ahead or use online tools to check ER wait times.
* **Understand insurance coverage and costs:** Verify insurance coverage and inquire about potential out-of-pocket expenses.

The healthcare landscape near Romney, WV, presents a balance between local access and the need for travel to access specialized care. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the best possible care. The ongoing development of telehealth and the commitment of local hospitals to providing quality services are crucial for the health and well-being of the Romney community.