06280, Windham, Connecticut Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06280, Windham, Connecticut is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 06280 (Willimantic, CT)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 06280 (Willimantic, CT), providing a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Defining the Scope:**

The geographical scope for this review focuses on hospitals within a 30-mile radius of Willimantic, CT. This encompasses facilities in Windham County and surrounding areas, offering a realistic range of options for residents.

**Flagship Hospitals & CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other metrics. These ratings provide a valuable, albeit simplified, benchmark.

**Day Kimball Hospital (Putnam, CT):** Located approximately 20 miles northeast of Willimantic, Day Kimball Hospital is a key healthcare provider. As of the latest available data, Day Kimball Hospital holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a hospital performing at an average level compared to its peers. Day Kimball offers a range of services, including a cardiac rehabilitation program and a comprehensive cancer care program.

**Hartford Hospital (Hartford, CT):** Approximately 30 miles west of Willimantic, Hartford Hospital is a large, tertiary care center. It is a flagship hospital in the Hartford HealthCare system. Hartford Hospital consistently receives higher CMS star ratings, often achieving 4 or 5 stars, reflecting its strong performance across various quality measures. Hartford Hospital boasts a Level I trauma center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a renowned transplant program.

**Windham Hospital (Willimantic, CT):** Windham Hospital is the closest major hospital to the 06280 ZIP code, right in Willimantic. It is part of the Hartford HealthCare system. Windham Hospital's CMS star rating, as of the latest available data, is 3 stars. This indicates an average performance. The hospital provides a broad range of services, including a 24-hour emergency department, surgical services, and specialized care for women and children.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in urgent situations. Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it provides a general indication of efficiency.

**Windham Hospital:** As the local hospital, Windham Hospital's ER wait times are a critical consideration for residents of Willimantic. Data suggests that wait times can vary. It is advisable to check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online platforms before arriving at the ER.

**Hartford Hospital:** Due to its larger size and higher patient volume, Hartford Hospital typically experiences longer ER wait times compared to smaller hospitals. Patients should be prepared for potentially longer waits, especially during peak hours.

**Day Kimball Hospital:** Day Kimball Hospital, being a smaller facility, may have shorter ER wait times than Hartford Hospital. However, wait times can still fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized services is essential for addressing specific healthcare needs.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital excels in specialized services. It houses the Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center, a leading cancer treatment facility. It also has advanced cardiology and neurology programs. The hospital's transplant program is a regional leader.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. It also has a dedicated behavioral health unit.

**Day Kimball Hospital:** Day Kimball Hospital provides specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive cancer care program.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for convenient access to care.

**Hartford HealthCare System:** Both Hartford Hospital and Windham Hospital, being part of the Hartford HealthCare system, have robust telehealth programs. These programs offer virtual visits with specialists, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. The system has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure to expand access to care.

**Day Kimball Hospital:** Day Kimball Hospital also offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. The hospital's telehealth offerings may be more limited than those of the larger Hartford HealthCare system.

**Specific Considerations for 06280 Residents:**

Residents of Willimantic, CT (06280) have several options for healthcare, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

**Proximity and Convenience:** Windham Hospital is the most convenient option due to its location. However, patients should consider its CMS star rating and ER wait times.

**Specialized Needs:** For complex medical conditions, Hartford Hospital offers a wider range of specialized services and advanced technology. The drive time should be factored in.

**Cost and Insurance:** Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly between hospitals. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand their financial responsibilities before receiving care.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the overall patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website offer patient feedback.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

This "Overall Health Score" assessment is based on the data available and provides a general overview. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

**Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital scores highly due to its superior CMS star ratings, comprehensive specialty services, and robust telehealth capabilities. However, the longer ER wait times and travel distance should be considered.

**Windham Hospital:** Windham Hospital offers the convenience of local access. Its CMS star rating is average. The availability of specialty services is more limited than Hartford Hospital.

**Day Kimball Hospital:** Day Kimball Hospital provides a viable option, especially for residents in the northeastern part of the coverage area. Its CMS star rating is average.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

The best hospital for an individual depends on their specific healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences. Patients should consider the factors discussed in this review, consult with their primary care physician, and research the hospitals further before making a decision. Visiting hospital websites, reading patient reviews, and inquiring about specific services can help in making an informed choice.

**Disclaimer:**

Hospital data, including CMS star ratings and ER wait times, is subject to change. The information provided in this review is based on the most recent publicly available data. It is recommended to verify all information directly with the hospitals. This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.