01527, Millbury, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 01527, Millbury, Massachusetts is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 01527 (Leicester, MA)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals readily accessible to residents of Leicester, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01527), considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. This analysis prioritizes objective data, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, and the availability of telehealth options, to offer a comprehensive overview.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Leicester, MA, benefits from its location within the broader Worcester County, offering access to a range of hospitals. While no hospital is directly within the town limits, several facilities are easily reachable, primarily in Worcester and surrounding communities. This review focuses on the most relevant options, considering travel time and the scope of services offered.

**UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus (Worcester): A Flagship Institution**

UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus, located in Worcester, is a major healthcare provider and the closest flagship hospital. It is a teaching hospital, affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Medical School. This affiliation often translates to access to cutting-edge research and advanced medical technologies.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:**

UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, reflects a standard level of quality. CMS ratings are based on a range of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. It's essential to consider that these ratings are a snapshot in time and can fluctuate.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

ED wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility. Publicly available data suggests that wait times at UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus can vary. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, particularly during peak hours. The hospital's website and online resources often provide real-time ED wait time updates.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. Key areas include cardiology, oncology, and a Level I trauma center, offering a high level of care for critically injured patients. The hospital also houses specialized centers for women's health, pediatrics, and behavioral health.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for accessing healthcare. UMass Memorial Medical Center – University Campus has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. These services can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The hospital's telehealth platform allows patients to connect with providers remotely, offering convenience and flexibility.

**Saint Vincent Hospital (Worcester): Another Major Player**

Saint Vincent Hospital, also in Worcester, is another significant healthcare provider in the region. It is a member of the Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare Corporation. Saint Vincent Hospital has a long history of serving the Worcester community.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:**

Saint Vincent Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to UMass Memorial – University Campus. This indicates a comparable level of overall quality based on the CMS assessment criteria.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

ED wait times at Saint Vincent Hospital are another critical factor. Publicly available data on wait times is subject to change, and patients should check the hospital's website or other resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Saint Vincent Hospital provides a range of specialized services. Notable programs include cardiology, orthopedics, and surgical services. It is important to note that Saint Vincent Hospital recently underwent a labor dispute that impacted its services.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Saint Vincent Hospital has also invested in telehealth services. These services offer virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, increasing access to care.

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

While UMass Memorial and Saint Vincent are the major players, residents of 01527 also have access to other healthcare options.

**Reliant Medical Group:**

Reliant Medical Group operates several primary care and specialty care practices in the Worcester area. While not a hospital, Reliant offers comprehensive outpatient services, including primary care, cardiology, and other specialties. They also have urgent care centers, providing immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Urgent Care Centers:**

Several urgent care centers are located in the Worcester area. These facilities offer a convenient option for treating minor illnesses and injuries. They typically have shorter wait times than hospital emergency rooms. However, it is crucial to understand that urgent care centers are not equipped to handle severe medical emergencies.

**Assessing the "Overall Health Score" for 01527 Residents**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of 01527 is influenced by the proximity to major hospitals and the availability of a comprehensive range of services.

**Strengths:**

* **Proximity to Major Hospitals:** The area benefits from its proximity to UMass Memorial Medical Center and Saint Vincent Hospital, both offering a wide range of medical services.
* **Specialty Care Availability:** Both hospitals offer specialized centers for various medical needs, including cardiology, oncology, and trauma care.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** The growing availability of telehealth services enhances access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Additional Options:** The presence of Reliant Medical Group and urgent care centers provides alternative options for primary care and immediate medical attention.

**Weaknesses:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Both major hospitals have 3-star ratings from CMS.
* **ED Wait Times:** ED wait times can be a concern, and patients should be prepared for potential delays.
* **Labor Disputes:** The recent labor dispute at Saint Vincent Hospital has impacted services.

**Overall Assessment:**

Residents of 01527 have access to a solid healthcare infrastructure. UMass Memorial Medical Center and Saint Vincent Hospital provide a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care. The availability of telehealth options and urgent care centers further enhances access. While ED wait times and CMS ratings are areas for consideration, the overall "Overall Health Score" for the area is positive. Residents should research specific services, compare wait times, and consider their individual healthcare needs when selecting a provider. Ongoing monitoring of hospital performance and advancements in telehealth will continue to shape the healthcare landscape for the community.