26818, Fisher, West Virginia Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26818

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 26818, offering a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center availability, and telehealth services, painting a comprehensive picture of each facility. Please note that healthcare landscapes are dynamic, and this information reflects data available at the time of writing.

**Defining the Scope:**

ZIP code 26818 primarily encompasses the rural community of Moorefield, West Virginia, and surrounding areas. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering access to care for residents. The analysis will prioritize facilities offering a range of services, from emergency care to specialized treatments.

**Key Metrics & Their Significance:**

Several key metrics are used to assess the overall health score. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a publicly available measure of hospital quality, based on various factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Emergency room (ER) wait times are crucial for urgent care needs, and data on average wait times is considered. The availability of specialized centers, such as cardiac or cancer centers, indicates the scope of services offered. Finally, the prevalence and accessibility of telehealth services are assessed, reflecting the modern healthcare landscape's evolution.

**Hospital Profiles & Assessments:**

**1. Grant Memorial Hospital (Petersburg, WV):**

Grant Memorial Hospital, located in Petersburg, WV, is a primary care facility serving a significant portion of the local population. While it is geographically close to 26818, its overall score is somewhat limited by its size and scope of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Grant Memorial Hospital does not have a CMS star rating, which is typical for smaller, critical access hospitals. This does not automatically indicate poor quality, but rather, the CMS rating system may not fully apply to their scope of services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can be variable. Patients should contact the hospital directly or use online tools for the most up-to-date information.
* **Specialty Centers:** Grant Memorial Hospital offers basic services, including emergency care, general surgery, and laboratory services. It is not a major referral center.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are likely available, but the extent and specific specialties offered may be limited. Patients should inquire directly for details.
* **Overall Health Score:** Given the limited scope of services, the overall health score for Grant Memorial Hospital is moderate. It serves a crucial role in providing basic care to the community but may not be the best option for complex medical needs.

**2. Potomac Valley Hospital (Keyser, WV):**

Potomac Valley Hospital, situated in Keyser, WV, is another option for residents near 26818. It is a larger facility than Grant Memorial, offering a wider range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Potomac Valley Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** As with other facilities, ER wait times can fluctuate. Contacting the hospital or using online resources for the most current data is advisable.
* **Specialty Centers:** Potomac Valley Hospital provides a broader range of services than Grant Memorial, including cardiology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services should be confirmed with the hospital.
* **Overall Health Score:** Potomac Valley Hospital's overall health score is moderate to good, reflecting a wider array of services compared to Grant Memorial. It is a viable option for many healthcare needs, though it may not be the best choice for highly specialized care.

**3. Winchester Medical Center (Winchester, VA):**

Winchester Medical Center, located in Winchester, Virginia, represents a significant regional healthcare hub, providing a comprehensive range of services. Its proximity to 26818 makes it a potentially attractive option for residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Winchester Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Checking online resources or contacting the hospital for current information is recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Winchester Medical Center boasts a wide range of specialty centers, including a heart and vascular institute, a cancer center, and a comprehensive stroke center.
* **Telehealth:** Winchester Medical Center likely offers a robust telehealth program, providing access to specialists and remote consultations. Information on specific services should be available on their website.
* **Overall Health Score:** Winchester Medical Center's overall health score is good. Its comprehensive services, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings make it a strong choice for a wide range of healthcare needs. However, the 3-star CMS rating suggests room for improvement in some areas.

**4. WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center (Martinsburg, WV):**

WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center, located in Martinsburg, WV, is part of the WVU Medicine network, a major healthcare provider in the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are subject to change. The hospital's website or other online resources should provide up-to-date information.
* **Specialty Centers:** WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center offers various specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. As part of the WVU Medicine network, it can also provide access to more specialized care through referrals.
* **Telehealth:** WVU Medicine is a leader in telehealth, and Berkeley Medical Center likely offers a comprehensive telehealth program.
* **Overall Health Score:** WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center's overall health score is good. Its affiliation with the WVU Medicine network provides access to a wide range of services and resources. The 3-star CMS rating suggests average performance, but the network's capabilities offer a strong advantage.

**5. Other Considerations:**

Beyond the primary hospitals listed, other facilities may be relevant depending on specific healthcare needs. For instance, specialized clinics or outpatient centers might offer targeted services. Additionally, proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., or Pittsburgh, PA, could expand options for highly specialized care, though this would involve significantly increased travel time.

**Telehealth's Growing Importance:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly significant in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. It offers patients access to specialists, remote monitoring, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Patients should inquire about telehealth options at each hospital to determine what services are available.

**Accessing Information & Making Informed Decisions:**

When choosing a hospital, patients should consider their individual needs, the severity of their condition, and the availability of specialized services. The information provided in this review is a starting point. Patients should also:

* **Consult with their primary care physician:** Their doctor can provide personalized recommendations and referrals.
* **Research specific specialties:** If a patient requires specialized care, they should investigate the expertise and experience of doctors and centers in the relevant field.
* **Check insurance coverage:** Confirm that the chosen hospital and providers are within the patient's insurance network.
* **Read patient reviews:** Online reviews can provide insights into patient experiences, but should be considered alongside other information.
* **Contact the hospitals directly:** Call the hospitals to inquire about wait times, services, and telehealth options.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near ZIP code 26818 offer a range of healthcare options. Grant Memorial Hospital and Potomac Valley Hospital provide essential services, while Winchester Medical Center and WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center offer more comprehensive care. The best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this review and conducting thorough research, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare. The overall health scores, while helpful, should be used as a guide, not a definitive answer.