06355, Mystic, Connecticut Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06355, Mystic, Connecticut is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 06355

Finding the right healthcare can be a daunting task. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 06355 (Mystic, Connecticut), considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This analysis aims to offer a comprehensive overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in Southeastern Connecticut**

The healthcare landscape near Mystic is primarily defined by a network of hospitals and clinics serving a geographically dispersed population. Proximity to major urban centers like New London and Norwich significantly influences access to specialized services. The region's demographics, including a significant senior population, contribute to the demand for comprehensive healthcare offerings.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

**Yale New Haven Health's Lawrence + Memorial Hospital (New London, CT):** This is a major player, located a short drive from Mystic. Lawrence + Memorial (L+M) is a 285-bed community hospital and a key component of the Yale New Haven Health system. It boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on a range of quality measures, indicates a generally good level of performance, but it's crucial to delve deeper than just the star rating.

L+M's strengths lie in its comprehensive services. The hospital offers a robust emergency department, a well-regarded cardiac care program, and a strong focus on cancer treatment. The Smilow Cancer Hospital Care Center at L+M provides advanced cancer care and access to clinical trials. L+M has a relatively moderate ER wait time, typically averaging around 30-60 minutes, according to recent data. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Telehealth services are integrated, providing remote consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations.

**Backus Hospital (Norwich, CT):** Another significant hospital in the region, Backus Hospital, also affiliated with Hartford HealthCare, is located a bit further inland from Mystic. Backus is a 213-bed hospital and has a 3-star CMS rating. While the CMS rating is lower than L+M's, it's essential to consider that ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

Backus offers a wide range of services, including a busy emergency department, a comprehensive surgical program, and specialized care for women and children. The hospital's cardiology program is well-regarded. ER wait times at Backus can vary, often ranging from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the time and volume. Backus also has a growing telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Other Healthcare Options and Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other healthcare options are available near Mystic.

**Groton Long Point Health Center:** This is a primary care facility that offers a variety of services, including family medicine, internal medicine, and urgent care. It is a convenient option for routine check-ups and minor medical needs.

**Specialty Centers:** The area also features specialized centers, including outpatient rehabilitation facilities, physical therapy clinics, and behavioral health providers. These centers cater to specific needs and often work in conjunction with the larger hospitals.

**Access to Specialists:** Access to specialists is a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare. Both L+M and Backus Hospital have a broad range of specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and surgeons. The availability of specialists is generally good in the region, but wait times for appointments can vary depending on the specialist and the patient's insurance.

**Emergency Department Performance: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a significant indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Both L+M and Backus Hospital have ERs that serve a large patient population. While both hospitals generally perform well, wait times can be a concern, especially during peak hours or during flu season. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times and consider urgent care clinics for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Both L+M and Backus Hospital have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring capabilities. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide convenient access to specialists.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare quality. Factors like communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall comfort contribute to patient satisfaction. Both hospitals have patient satisfaction scores available through CMS and other sources. These scores provide valuable insights into the patient experience, although they should be interpreted alongside other quality metrics.

**Insurance Coverage and Affordability**

Insurance coverage and affordability are significant factors in accessing healthcare. The hospitals in the area accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Patients should verify their insurance coverage before seeking care and inquire about potential out-of-pocket costs.

**Specific Considerations for ZIP Code 06355 Residents**

Residents of Mystic (ZIP code 06355) are strategically positioned to access healthcare. The proximity to L+M in New London makes it a convenient option for many. However, Backus Hospital in Norwich is also accessible and offers a different set of services. Residents should consider their specific needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when choosing a hospital or healthcare provider.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

**Yale New Haven Health's Lawrence + Memorial Hospital:** Offers a strong overall performance, with a 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive services, and a well-regarded emergency department. Its proximity to Mystic makes it a convenient option.

**Hartford HealthCare's Backus Hospital:** Provides a wide range of services, including a busy emergency department and specialized care. Its 3-star CMS rating suggests areas for improvement, but it remains a viable option.

**Other Considerations:** The availability of primary care physicians, urgent care clinics, and specialty centers adds to the overall healthcare landscape. Residents should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences when selecting healthcare providers.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right healthcare provider is a personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating the hospitals near ZIP code 06355, considering quality, accessibility, and patient experience. Residents should use this information to research their options, consult with their primary care physicians, and make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The healthcare landscape in this region offers a variety of options, and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each provider is essential for ensuring access to quality care.