06380, Taftville, Connecticut Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06380, Taftville, Connecticut is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Stonington, CT (ZIP Code 06380)

Choosing the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health crisis. Residents of Stonington, Connecticut (ZIP code 06380) have several options within a reasonable driving distance, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability, to help you make an informed choice.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Geographic Considerations**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 06380 ZIP code are clustered in the surrounding towns and cities. Proximity to major medical centers in New London, Norwich, and Westerly, Rhode Island, shapes the healthcare landscape. Residents often weigh convenience against specialized care when selecting a hospital.

**Yale New Haven Health's Lawrence + Memorial Hospital (New London, CT)**

Lawrence + Memorial Hospital (L+M), located in New London, is a prominent player in the region. As part of the Yale New Haven Health system, it benefits from the network's resources and expertise. L+M holds a respectable **CMS star rating of 3 stars** as of the latest available data. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care.

L+M's Emergency Department (ED) is a crucial resource for the community. **Average ER wait times fluctuate, but can be longer than the national average.** It is essential to note that wait times can vary considerably depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the presenting illnesses or injuries. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website or through online search tools.

L+M boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services. It offers cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and a robust surgical program. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, providing advanced treatments and support services. They are also known for their maternity services, including a well-regarded labor and delivery unit.

Telehealth is increasingly integrated into L+M's offerings. They provide virtual consultations and follow-up appointments across several specialties. The adoption of telehealth has expanded access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits or the types of specialties offered, are readily available on their website.

**Overall Health Score for L+M: 7/10**. While the 3-star CMS rating is decent, the potential for longer ER wait times and the need for further expansion of telehealth services hold the score back. The comprehensive specialty services and affiliation with Yale New Haven Health are significant advantages.

**Backus Hospital (Norwich, CT)**

Backus Hospital, located in Norwich, offers another option for residents of 06380. Backus is a member of the Hartford HealthCare system. Backus Hospital currently has a **CMS star rating of 3 stars**, similar to L+M.

Backus's ED serves a large population, and **ER wait times can vary, but generally align with or are slightly better than the national average.** Real-time wait time information is available online.

Backus provides a wide array of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical care. The hospital has a dedicated heart and vascular institute and a cancer center offering advanced treatments.

Backus is actively expanding its telehealth offerings. They offer virtual consultations and follow-up appointments across several specialties. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits or the types of specialties offered, are readily available on their website.

**Overall Health Score for Backus: 7/10**. The CMS rating and ER wait times are similar to L+M. Backus's affiliation with Hartford HealthCare and its specialized services are positive factors.

**Westerly Hospital (Westerly, RI)**

While located in Rhode Island, Westerly Hospital is a convenient option for some residents of 06380. Westerly Hospital is part of the Yale New Haven Health system. **Westerly Hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars**, making it a strong contender in the region.

Westerly's ED is a critical resource for the community. **ER wait times are generally shorter than the national average.** Real-time wait time information is available online.

Westerly offers a broad range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive surgical program. They have a well-regarded maternity unit.

Telehealth is incorporated into Westerly's care delivery. They provide virtual consultations and follow-up appointments across several specialties. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits or the types of specialties offered, are readily available on their website.

**Overall Health Score for Westerly Hospital: 8/10**. The 4-star CMS rating, shorter ER wait times, and affiliation with Yale New Haven Health are significant advantages.

**Specialty Centers and Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents may need to consider specialized care. For advanced cancer treatment, the Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven (New Haven, CT) is a leading option, although it requires a longer drive. Similarly, specialized pediatric care may necessitate travel to Yale New Haven Children's Hospital.

**Telehealth: The Expanding Frontier**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare access. All the hospitals mentioned are expanding their telehealth services, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, medication management, and mental health services. Patients should check the specific telehealth offerings of each hospital to determine if they meet their needs.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing a hospital's performance. While hospitals strive to minimize wait times, they can fluctuate significantly. Patients should utilize online tools and hospital websites to check current wait times before seeking emergency care.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report offer patient satisfaction scores and reviews for hospitals. These resources can help patients understand the experiences of others and make informed decisions.

**Financial Considerations**

Healthcare costs are a significant concern. Patients should understand their insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses before receiving care. Hospitals often provide cost estimates and financial assistance programs.

**Conclusion: Making the Best Choice**

For residents of 06380, the choice of a hospital depends on individual needs and preferences. Westerly Hospital offers a strong overall score due to its higher CMS rating and shorter ER wait times. L+M and Backus Hospital provide comprehensive services and are conveniently located. The Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale New Haven Children's Hospital offer specialized care, though they are further away. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and patient reviews, to make the best decision for their health needs.