06282, Woodstock Valley, Connecticut Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06282, Woodstock Valley, Connecticut is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Willimantic, CT (ZIP Code 06282)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel daunting. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals readily accessible to residents of Willimantic, Connecticut (ZIP Code 06282), focusing on key metrics to provide a comprehensive understanding of available options. The score considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and more, aiming to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus is on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Willimantic. This includes facilities in Windham County and readily accessible hospitals in neighboring counties. The review emphasizes readily available data, primarily from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available sources. Data is dynamic, and this review reflects information available as of October 26, 2023.

**Flagship Hospital: Hartford Hospital (Hartford, CT)**

Hartford Hospital, located approximately 30 miles west of Willimantic, is a major regional referral center and a flagship institution within the Hartford HealthCare network. It boasts a **4-star CMS rating**, indicating above-average performance across various quality metrics. This rating reflects patient experience, safety, and efficiency of care.

Hartford Hospital's Emergency Department (ED) sees a high volume of patients. Publicly available data suggests **average ER wait times** can fluctuate, but it's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before arrival, especially during peak hours. The hospital’s ED is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, including trauma cases.

Hartford Hospital excels in several specialty areas. It houses a comprehensive **cardiovascular center**, including advanced cardiac surgery and interventional cardiology. The hospital is also known for its **cancer care**, offering a range of treatment options, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Its **orthopedic services** are robust, encompassing joint replacements and sports medicine. Hartford Hospital has a dedicated **neuroscience institute** for neurological and neurosurgical care.

**Telehealth Presence:** Hartford HealthCare has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings. Hartford Hospital provides virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services across multiple specialties. This is particularly beneficial for residents in more rural areas, reducing the need for in-person visits. Specific telehealth availability varies by specialty and provider.

**Overall Health Score (Hartford Hospital): 8.5/10** – A strong score reflecting its high CMS rating, comprehensive specialty offerings, and robust telehealth presence. The high volume of patients may contribute to longer wait times in the ED.

**Day Kimball Hospital (Putnam, CT)**

Day Kimball Hospital, located approximately 20 miles east of Willimantic, is a community hospital serving Windham County. It currently holds a **3-star CMS rating**, indicating average performance.

Day Kimball's Emergency Department serves a smaller patient population than Hartford Hospital. **ER wait times** are generally shorter. Publicly available data suggests that wait times are often below the state average.

Day Kimball Hospital offers a range of core services, including a general medical-surgical unit, a critical care unit, and a labor and delivery unit. It has a **cardiac rehabilitation program** and provides **oncology services**. The hospital also has a **surgical center** offering various procedures.

**Telehealth Presence:** Day Kimball Hospital has integrated telehealth into its services, particularly for specialty consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services is expanding.

**Overall Health Score (Day Kimball Hospital): 7/10** – A solid score for a community hospital, reflecting its accessibility, shorter ER wait times, and established services. The 3-star CMS rating indicates areas for potential improvement.

**Backus Hospital (Norwich, CT)**

Backus Hospital, located approximately 25 miles southeast of Willimantic, is part of the Hartford HealthCare network. It holds a **3-star CMS rating**.

Backus Hospital’s Emergency Department is a busy facility. **ER wait times** can fluctuate, and it is advisable to check current wait times before arrival.

Backus Hospital provides a comprehensive range of services, including a **cardiac center**, **cancer care**, and **orthopedic services**. It also has a **bariatric surgery program**.

**Telehealth Presence:** Backus Hospital, as part of Hartford HealthCare, offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Overall Health Score (Backus Hospital): 7/10** – Similar to Day Kimball, this score reflects its accessibility, established services, and the Hartford HealthCare network’s telehealth capabilities. The 3-star CMS rating is a factor.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers**

Several smaller hospitals and urgent care centers are also accessible to residents of the 06282 ZIP code. These facilities can provide convenient care for less critical conditions.

**Plainfield Emergency Medical Center (Plainfield, CT):** This is a freestanding emergency department and offers 24/7 emergency services. It is important to note that it is not a full-service hospital.

**Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in and around Willimantic. These facilities offer convenient care for minor illnesses and injuries. Wait times are typically shorter than at hospital EDs.

**Factors Impacting Overall Health Score:**

Several factors influence the "Overall Health Score" of each hospital:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a standardized measure of quality and performance.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are generally preferable, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care is crucial for patients with specific health needs.
* **Telehealth Offerings:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction and feedback are essential components of quality healthcare.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates adherence to quality standards.

**Limitations of the Review:**

This review is based on publicly available data and may not reflect the full scope of each hospital's services. Individual experiences may vary. It is essential to consult with your primary care physician or specialist for personalized recommendations. Data is constantly evolving.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

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

* **Your Specific Health Needs:** Do you require specialized care?
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** How far are you willing to travel?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is within your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Recommendations:** Research online reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** In an emergency, the closest facility may be the best option.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Willimantic, CT (06282) have access to a range of healthcare options. Hartford Hospital offers the most comprehensive services and a higher CMS rating. Day Kimball Hospital and Backus Hospital provide accessible community care. Urgent care centers and smaller facilities offer convenient options for less critical needs. By considering the factors outlined in this review and consulting with healthcare professionals, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Remember to verify all information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers, as data is subject to change.