11520, Freeport, New York Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 11520, Freeport, New York is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in the Heart of Long Island: A Hospital Scorecard Near 11520

Finding the right hospital for arthritis treatment is a crucial decision, especially when navigating the complexities of chronic pain and limited mobility. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 11520 (Floral Park, NY), evaluating their capabilities in rheumatology, orthopedics, and overall patient care. We’ll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive assessment.

**North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset): A Regional Powerhouse**

North Shore University Hospital, a flagship facility of Northwell Health, consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the New York metropolitan area. It holds a commendable four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care.

The hospital boasts a robust rheumatology department with a team of board-certified rheumatologists specializing in diagnosing and treating various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including advanced imaging, laboratory testing, and infusion therapy.

Orthopedic care at North Shore is equally impressive. The hospital's orthopedic surgeons perform a high volume of joint replacement surgeries, including hip and knee replacements, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques. They also have a dedicated sports medicine program for patients with arthritis-related injuries.

ER wait times at North Shore University Hospital can fluctuate, but the hospital generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Real-time data on ER wait times is often available on the hospital's website, allowing patients to make informed decisions.

North Shore has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations for rheumatology and orthopedic patients. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations for patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital. Telehealth utilization has increased significantly in recent years, providing greater access to care and convenience for patients.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park): A Comprehensive Approach**

Long Island Jewish Medical Center (LIJ), also part of Northwell Health, is another major healthcare provider in the region. It also holds a four-star CMS rating, reflecting its commitment to quality patient care. LIJ provides a full spectrum of medical services, including specialized arthritis care.

The rheumatology department at LIJ offers a comprehensive approach to arthritis treatment, with a focus on personalized care plans. They have expertise in managing complex cases and offer access to clinical trials for innovative therapies.

The orthopedic department at LIJ is well-regarded, with experienced surgeons specializing in joint replacements, arthroscopic procedures, and other orthopedic interventions. They emphasize patient education and rehabilitation to optimize outcomes.

ER wait times at LIJ are typically comparable to those at North Shore University Hospital. The hospital actively monitors and manages its ER flow to minimize patient wait times.

LIJ has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations for rheumatology and orthopedic patients. They provide remote monitoring services and virtual physical therapy sessions, further enhancing patient convenience and access to care.

**St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center (Roslyn): A Focus on Specialized Care**

St. Francis Hospital, known for its cardiovascular expertise, also offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including rheumatology and orthopedic care. It consistently receives high marks for patient satisfaction and quality of care. It is not located directly in the 11520 ZIP code but is nearby and is a strong option.

The hospital's rheumatology department provides expert diagnosis and treatment for various arthritis conditions. They collaborate closely with other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

While St. Francis is primarily known for its cardiac services, its orthopedic department offers a range of services, including joint replacement surgery and sports medicine.

ER wait times at St. Francis are generally competitive, with the hospital striving to provide timely care.

St. Francis Hospital has embraced telehealth, offering virtual consultations for certain specialties. The hospital is continuously expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve patient access and convenience.

**Catholic Health: Mercy Hospital (Rockville Centre): A Community-Focused Option**

Mercy Hospital, part of the Catholic Health system, is another option for arthritis care near 11520. It is located a bit further from the ZIP code but still within a reasonable driving distance.

Mercy Hospital's rheumatology department provides comprehensive care for patients with arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. They offer a range of diagnostic and treatment options, including medication management and physical therapy.

The orthopedic department at Mercy Hospital provides a range of services, including joint replacement surgery and sports medicine.

ER wait times at Mercy Hospital can vary, but the hospital is committed to providing timely care.

Mercy Hospital has been expanding its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations for certain specialties.

**Understanding CMS Star Ratings**

The CMS star rating system is a valuable tool for assessing hospital quality. It assigns hospitals a rating from one to five stars, with five stars representing the highest quality. The ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, patient experience, and efficiency. While the ratings are a useful indicator, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as the specific needs of the patient and the expertise of the medical professionals.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. Hospitals strive to minimize wait times, but it is essential to be prepared for potential delays. Patients should check the hospital's website or call ahead to inquire about current wait times.

**Specialty Centers: Focused Expertise**

Many hospitals have established specialty centers dedicated to specific conditions, such as arthritis. These centers often have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals. They provide comprehensive care and access to the latest treatments and technologies.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis. Virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services can improve patient access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance convenience.

**Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the expertise of the medical professionals. Factors to consider include:

* **The specific type of arthritis:** Some hospitals may have more expertise in treating certain types of arthritis.
* **The severity of the condition:** Patients with more complex cases may benefit from seeking care at a larger hospital with specialized resources.
* **Insurance coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its providers are in-network.
* **Patient experience:** Read online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the hospital's reputation and patient satisfaction.
* **Telehealth availability:** If convenient access to care is a priority, consider hospitals with robust telehealth programs.

By carefully evaluating these factors and considering the information provided in this review, patients can make an informed decision about where to receive the best possible arthritis care near the 11520 ZIP code. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or rheumatologist for personalized recommendations.