Health Scores Near 06472, Northford, Connecticut
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The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 06472, Northford, Connecticut is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
Health Scores in 06472, Northford, Connecticut
| Overall Health Score | 95 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 54 |
| Provider Score | 89 |
| Hospital Score | 69 |
| Travel Score | 67 |
## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 06472 (Wallingford, CT)
Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Wallingford, CT (06472) area, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth availability. The goal is to offer a clear, fact-based overview to aid informed healthcare decisions.
**Understanding the Landscape:**
The primary hospitals serving the 06472 zip code are clustered within a reasonable driving distance, offering a range of services. Proximity to major cities like New Haven and Hartford expands the available options, but the focus here remains on facilities most readily accessible to Wallingford residents.
**The Flagship: Yale New Haven Hospital (New Haven, CT)**
Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH) is a major player, located a short drive south of Wallingford. As a large teaching hospital, it boasts a comprehensive range of specialties and a reputation for advanced medical care. YNHH is the flagship facility of Yale New Haven Health.
**CMS Star Rating and Quality:**
YNHH consistently receives high marks from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While the exact star rating can fluctuate slightly, YNHH typically earns a four- or five-star rating, indicating above-average performance in areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. This rating is a significant indicator of overall quality.
**Emergency Room Performance:**
Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. YNHH's ER, as with many large hospitals, can experience periods of high volume. While specific wait times fluctuate depending on the day and time, it's advisable to check current wait times online or via phone before heading to the ER. The hospital strives to triage patients efficiently, prioritizing those with the most critical needs.
**Specialty Centers and Services:**
YNHH excels in several specialty areas. Its Smilow Cancer Hospital is a nationally recognized cancer center, offering advanced treatments and research. The hospital also features strong programs in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. Yale New Haven Children's Hospital provides specialized pediatric care. The hospital is also a major transplant center.
**Telehealth Capabilities:**
Telehealth is increasingly important. YNHH has invested heavily in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health solutions. This allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments and certain specialist consultations. Specific telehealth availability varies by specialty.
**MidState Medical Center (Meriden, CT): A Closer Look**
MidState Medical Center, located in nearby Meriden, CT, is another important option for Wallingford residents. As a smaller community hospital, it offers a more intimate setting while still providing a range of essential services.
**CMS Star Rating and Quality:**
MidState Medical Center also holds a respectable CMS star rating, often receiving three or four stars. This indicates a solid level of quality and performance. While not as large as YNHH, MidState provides a valuable service to the community.
**Emergency Room Performance:**
MidState's ER often experiences shorter wait times than larger hospitals like YNHH. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking prompt medical attention. Again, checking current wait times before arrival is recommended.
**Specialty Centers and Services:**
MidState offers a core set of specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It has a strong focus on providing patient-centered care. The hospital also has a dedicated maternity unit.
**Telehealth Capabilities:**
MidState has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. Telehealth services are available for certain specialties and follow-up appointments. The hospital is continually working to enhance its digital health capabilities.
**Other Considerations: Hartford Hospital and St. Francis Hospital (Hartford, CT)**
While further afield, Hartford Hospital and St. Francis Hospital, both located in Hartford, CT, are potential options for residents of 06472. Both are major hospitals with extensive resources.
**Hartford Hospital:**
Hartford Hospital is a large, tertiary care center with a strong reputation. It is known for its advanced trauma center, comprehensive cardiac care, and specialized services. Hartford Hospital typically receives a good CMS star rating. However, travel time from Wallingford is a factor to consider.
**St. Francis Hospital:**
St. Francis Hospital, part of Trinity Health of New England, is another major Hartford hospital. It offers a broad range of services, including specialized centers for cancer, heart care, and women's health. St. Francis also typically receives a good CMS star rating. Travel time is a consideration.
**Comparing and Contrasting: A Summary**
YNHH offers the most comprehensive range of services and is a leader in advanced medical care. Its high CMS star rating and specialized centers are major advantages. However, its ER wait times can be longer.
MidState Medical Center provides a more accessible, community-focused experience. Its shorter ER wait times and patient-centered approach are attractive. It offers a good range of core services.
Hartford Hospital and St. Francis Hospital, though further away, offer specialized services and are major players in the region. Travel time is a key factor.
**Factors Affecting Your Choice:**
Several factors should influence your hospital choice:
* **Severity of Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies, the closest and most readily accessible ER is paramount. For complex conditions, the specialized expertise of a larger hospital like YNHH might be necessary.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care (e.g., cancer treatment, cardiac surgery), choose a hospital with a dedicated center for that specialty.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider factors like hospital ratings, reviews, and the overall patient experience.
* **Convenience:** Proximity and ease of access are important, especially for follow-up appointments and ongoing care.
* **Telehealth Needs:** If telehealth is important, check the availability of virtual services for your specific needs.
**Accessing Information and Making Informed Decisions:**
* **CMS Hospital Compare:** Use the CMS Hospital Compare website ([https://www.medicare.gov/hospitalcompare/](https://www.medicare.gov/hospitalcompare/)) to compare hospitals based on quality metrics, patient experience, and other factors.
* **Hospital Websites:** Visit the websites of the hospitals you are considering to learn about their services, specialties, and telehealth offerings.
* **Physician Referrals:** Consult with your primary care physician for recommendations and referrals to specialists.
* **Online Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to get a sense of their experiences.
**Overall Health Score Assessment:**
Based on the factors outlined above, the following is a general assessment:
* **Yale New Haven Hospital:** Offers the highest overall "Overall Health Score" due to its comprehensive services, advanced medical capabilities, and strong CMS ratings. However, ER wait times can be a drawback.
* **MidState Medical Center:** Provides a good "Overall Health Score" with a more accessible, community-focused approach and potentially shorter ER wait times.
* **Hartford Hospital and St. Francis Hospital:** Offer strong "Overall Health Scores" with specialized services, but travel time from Wallingford is a significant factor.
**Conclusion:**
The best hospital for a Wallingford resident depends on individual needs and priorities. YNHH is a top-tier choice for complex medical needs, while MidState offers a more accessible and potentially quicker experience. Hartford hospitals offer specialized care. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review and utilizing available resources, residents of 06472 can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Remember to always prioritize prompt medical attention in emergencies and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
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