06254, North Franklin, Connecticut Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06254, North Franklin, Connecticut is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 06254 (Mansfield, CT)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of hospitals near Mansfield, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06254), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The analysis incorporates data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), publicly available hospital websites, and other credible sources.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus is on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of 06254, including those in nearby towns and cities. The review considers factors like overall quality, accessibility, specialized services, and patient experience. It aims to provide a balanced perspective, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the overall quality of care. CMS Star Ratings provide a readily accessible, albeit simplified, measure of hospital performance. These ratings are based on a variety of quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Hartford Hospital (Hartford, CT):** While located further afield, Hartford Hospital is a major regional medical center and a significant option for residents of 06254. As a large, tertiary care facility, it offers a wide range of specialized services and is often a referral destination. Hartford Hospital generally receives a good CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality care. The hospital’s comprehensive offerings include advanced cardiology, oncology, and trauma services.

**Saint Francis Hospital (Hartford, CT):** Another prominent hospital in the Hartford area, Saint Francis is another option for residents. Saint Francis Hospital also boasts a strong reputation and a good CMS star rating. Known for its focus on patient-centered care, Saint Francis excels in areas like cardiac care and cancer treatment.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity:**

Several other hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance of 06254, offering diverse healthcare options. These hospitals may not be flagship facilities but provide essential services and contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem.

**Windham Hospital (Willimantic, CT):** Located closer to 06254, Windham Hospital is a community hospital that serves the immediate area. Windham Hospital provides a range of general medical and surgical services, including emergency care, obstetrics, and primary care. Its accessibility makes it a convenient option for many residents. The hospital's CMS star rating should be considered when evaluating its quality of care.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Long wait times can be stressful and potentially detrimental, especially in urgent situations. While wait times fluctuate, understanding the typical patterns at each hospital is essential.

**Hartford Hospital:** As a high-volume facility, Hartford Hospital's ER wait times can vary considerably. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours. However, the hospital's extensive resources and specialized services often make it the preferred choice for complex emergencies.

**Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital also experiences varying ER wait times. Patients should check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital generally has shorter ER wait times compared to the larger hospitals in Hartford. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking prompt medical attention. However, it's important to remember that wait times can still vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general medical care, specialized services are critical for addressing specific health needs. Access to specialized centers can significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including a renowned heart and vascular institute, a cancer center, and a neuroscience institute. These centers offer advanced treatments and cutting-edge technologies.

**Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital also has well-established specialty centers, including a strong cardiac program and a cancer institute. The hospital is known for its expertise in various medical fields.

**Windham Hospital:** While Windham Hospital offers general medical services, it may have fewer specialized centers compared to the larger hospitals in Hartford. Residents requiring highly specialized care may need to travel to Hartford or other regional centers.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for routine consultations, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management. The availability of telehealth services can enhance patient convenience and access to care.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes.

**Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital has also embraced telehealth, offering a range of virtual care options. Patients can connect with providers remotely for various medical needs.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital is also offering telehealth services. The availability of telehealth may be more limited than at the larger hospitals.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of overall healthcare quality. Factors like communication, responsiveness, and the overall hospital environment significantly impact patient satisfaction.

**CMS Patient Experience Surveys:** CMS collects data on patient experience through surveys, providing valuable insights into how patients perceive their care. These surveys assess various aspects of the patient experience, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital's patient experience scores should be considered.

**Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital's patient experience scores should be considered.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital's patient experience scores should be considered.

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Accessibility includes factors like location, transportation options, and ease of scheduling appointments. Convenience plays a significant role in patient adherence to treatment plans and overall satisfaction.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital's location in Hartford may present transportation challenges for some residents of 06254. However, the hospital offers various services to assist patients with transportation.

**Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital's location in Hartford may present transportation challenges for some residents of 06254. However, the hospital offers various services to assist patients with transportation.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital's proximity to 06254 makes it a convenient option for many residents. Its accessibility is a significant advantage.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the factors discussed, the hospitals near 06254 offer a range of healthcare options.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital, while further away, offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, a good CMS star rating, and a robust telehealth program. However, patients should be prepared for potential ER wait times and consider the travel distance.

**Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital, also in Hartford, provides a good level of care with a good CMS star rating.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital is a convenient option for general medical care and has shorter ER wait times. However, it may have fewer specialized services than the larger hospitals in Hartford.

**Recommendations:**

Residents of 06254 should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs when choosing a hospital. For complex medical conditions or specialized care, Hartford Hospital or Saint Francis Hospital may be the best options. For general medical needs and convenient access, Windham Hospital is a viable choice. Patients should research each hospital's specific services, check ER wait times, and consider their own preferences regarding patient experience and convenience. Consulting with a primary care physician is also recommended for personalized guidance.