06243, East Killingly, Connecticut Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06243, East Killingly, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 06243 (Plainfield, CT)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Plainfield, CT (ZIP code 06243) area, considering factors like quality, accessibility, and specialized services. This analysis aims to offer a clear picture for residents seeking the best possible care.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The primary hospitals serving the 06243 ZIP code are located within a reasonable driving distance, offering a range of care options. While the immediate vicinity doesn't boast a major medical center, residents benefit from access to regional hospitals with varying strengths. Proximity is key, especially in emergencies.

**Day Kimball Hospital (Putnam, CT): A Local Focus**

Day Kimball Hospital, located in Putnam, CT, is the closest full-service hospital to Plainfield. This community hospital provides a comprehensive suite of services, making it a crucial resource for residents. Day Kimball is a critical access hospital, reflecting its importance in serving a rural population.

**Day Kimball's CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics**

Day Kimball Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally average performance across various quality measures. CMS ratings consider factors like patient outcomes, readmission rates, and patient experience. It's crucial to understand that CMS ratings are just one data point and shouldn't be the sole determinant of hospital choice.

**Day Kimball: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Day Kimball excels in certain areas, particularly in its focus on serving the local community. It offers a robust emergency department, crucial for residents in need of immediate care. The hospital also provides specialized services like cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. However, as a smaller hospital, Day Kimball may not have the same breadth of specialized programs as larger regional centers.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a vital consideration. Shorter wait times can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially in critical situations. Data on ER wait times can vary, but generally, Day Kimball Hospital has ER wait times that are in line with, or slightly better than, the national average. This is a positive factor for residents in the area. It's always advisable to check real-time wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Programs at Day Kimball**

Day Kimball Hospital has several specialized centers and programs. These include a comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program, a dedicated wound care center, and a robust cancer care program. The hospital also offers a range of surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures. These programs are important for patients needing specialized care close to home.

**Telehealth Capabilities at Day Kimball**

Telehealth is increasingly important for healthcare access. Day Kimball Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, providing access to specialists without the need for extensive travel. Telehealth services are also useful for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management.

**Other Hospitals within Reach: Expanding the Options**

While Day Kimball is the closest, residents also have access to other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These include facilities in Norwich, New London, and Providence, RI. These hospitals offer different strengths and specializations, expanding the range of care options.

**Backus Hospital (Norwich, CT): A Regional Hub**

Backus Hospital in Norwich, CT, is another significant regional hospital. Backus is a larger facility than Day Kimball, offering a broader range of services and specialists. It is part of the Hartford HealthCare system, which provides access to a larger network of resources and expertise.

**Backus Hospital's CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics**

Backus Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to Day Kimball. This rating suggests a comparable level of performance on CMS quality metrics. However, the larger size of Backus Hospital allows for a wider range of specialized services.

**Backus: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Backus Hospital has a strong reputation for its cardiology and cardiac surgery programs. It also has a well-regarded cancer center and a comprehensive stroke center. The hospital's larger size allows for a greater availability of specialists and advanced technologies. However, like all hospitals, Backus faces challenges, including managing patient volume and ensuring optimal staffing levels.

**Emergency Room Wait Times at Backus**

ER wait times at Backus Hospital can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Generally, wait times are comparable to or slightly longer than those at Day Kimball, reflecting the hospital's larger size and higher patient volume. Checking real-time wait times is always recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Programs at Backus**

Backus Hospital offers a wide array of specialty centers and programs. These include a comprehensive cardiac center, a leading cancer center, a dedicated stroke center, and a robust orthopedic program. The hospital also has a well-equipped surgical suite and offers a range of minimally invasive procedures.

**Telehealth Capabilities at Backus**

Backus Hospital has invested heavily in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals. This allows patients to access specialists remotely and manage their health more effectively. Telehealth services are particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions and those living in rural areas.

**Yale New Haven Health System: Expanding Access**

Yale New Haven Health System, a major healthcare provider in Connecticut, has a presence in the region through its affiliations and partnerships. This expands access to specialized care and advanced technologies.

**Yale New Haven Health System: Impact on the Region**

The presence of Yale New Haven Health System in the region provides access to a wider network of specialists, advanced technologies, and cutting-edge research. This is particularly beneficial for patients with complex medical conditions.

**Other Hospitals to Consider: Rhode Island Options**

Residents of the 06243 ZIP code are also within reasonable driving distance of hospitals in Rhode Island, particularly those in the Providence area. These hospitals offer additional options for specialized care.

**The Importance of Patient Experience**

Patient experience is a critical factor in overall health. Hospitals are increasingly focused on improving patient satisfaction, offering amenities, and providing a supportive environment. Patient reviews and surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall hospital experience.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** How close is the hospital to your home?
* **Specialty Needs:** Does the hospital offer the specialized services you require?
* **Physician Network:** Does your insurance plan cover the doctors at the hospital?
* **Patient Reviews:** What do other patients say about their experiences?
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** How long are wait times, especially during peak hours?
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only factor, consider the hospital's CMS rating.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services?

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The hospitals near the 06243 ZIP code provide a range of options, with Day Kimball Hospital serving as a crucial local resource. Backus Hospital offers a broader range of services and specialists. Residents also have access to hospitals in the Yale New Haven Health System network and those in Rhode Island.

**Recommendations**

* **For Routine Care:** Day Kimball Hospital is a convenient and reliable option for routine medical care and emergency services.
* **For Specialized Care:** Backus Hospital and hospitals within the Yale New Haven Health System offer access to a wider range of specialists and advanced technologies.
* **For Emergency Situations:** Consider the closest hospital with the shortest estimated ER wait times.
* **Research and Compare:** Before making a decision, research the specific needs of your health situation and compare the services, wait times, and patient reviews of the available hospitals.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth services for convenient access to specialists and follow-up care.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Staying informed and actively participating in your healthcare decisions is essential for ensuring the best possible outcomes. This review provides a starting point for making informed choices about your healthcare needs in the Plainfield, CT area.