02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Seekonk, MA (ZIP Code 02764)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Seekonk, Massachusetts area (ZIP code 02764), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your care. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Remember, this is a snapshot based on available data and should not substitute professional medical advice.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Seekonk is primarily served by hospitals located in nearby cities, particularly Providence, Rhode Island. This geographical reality significantly shapes the healthcare options available to residents. While Seekonk itself lacks a major hospital, its proximity to Providence grants access to a robust network of medical facilities.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**1. Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** This is a major player, often considered the flagship hospital in the region. It's part of Lifespan Health System and is a Level I Trauma Center, crucial for handling the most severe injuries and illnesses. Rhode Island Hospital is a teaching hospital affiliated with Brown University's Warren Alpert Medical School, meaning it's at the forefront of medical research and often has access to cutting-edge treatments.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Rhode Island Hospital generally receives a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to consider that CMS ratings are just one data point and can fluctuate.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Rhode Island Hospital can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Data suggests average wait times can range from 1 to 3 hours, but it's always advisable to check real-time wait times via their website or a third-party app before heading to the ER.
* **Specialty Centers:** Rhode Island Hospital boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including comprehensive cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery departments. The hospital is particularly well-regarded for its cancer care, offering advanced treatments and clinical trials. They also have a dedicated Women's Medicine program.
* **Telehealth:** Rhode Island Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability and specific services vary by department, so it's best to check with your provider to see if telehealth is an option for your needs.

**2. Women & Infants Hospital (Providence, RI):** Also part of the Lifespan system, Women & Infants Hospital is a nationally recognized center specializing in women's health and newborn care. It's a leading provider of obstetric and gynecological services, including high-risk pregnancy management and advanced reproductive technologies.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Women & Infants Hospital also generally receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Women & Infants Hospital are typically shorter than at Rhode Island Hospital, often under an hour.
* **Specialty Centers:** As its name suggests, Women & Infants focuses on women's health. It has specialized centers for maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, and reproductive endocrinology and infertility. They are also known for their Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
* **Telehealth:** Women & Infants Hospital offers telehealth services, particularly for prenatal care and postpartum follow-up.

**3. The Miriam Hospital (Providence, RI):** This hospital, part of the Lifespan system, is known for its focus on research and innovation. It's a teaching hospital affiliated with Brown University and is actively involved in clinical trials.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The Miriam Hospital generally receives a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a higher level of performance compared to Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at The Miriam Hospital are often shorter than at Rhode Island Hospital.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Miriam Hospital has strong programs in cardiology, behavioral health, and geriatrics. It is known for its comprehensive cardiac care and its advanced treatments for heart disease.
* **Telehealth:** The Miriam Hospital offers telehealth services, particularly for behavioral health and follow-up appointments.

**4. Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):** While located slightly further away, Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA, is another option for residents of Seekonk. It is a community hospital that provides a range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital generally receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Sturdy Memorial Hospital are typically shorter than at the larger hospitals in Providence.
* **Specialty Centers:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital offers services in cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery.
* **Telehealth:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual visits.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor when assessing healthcare access. While average wait times provide a general idea, it's crucial to remember that these can fluctuate significantly. Websites like the hospital's own or third-party apps often provide real-time wait time updates. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, always call 911 or proceed to the nearest ER.

**Specialty Centers: Tailoring Your Care**

The availability of specialized centers is a significant advantage. The hospitals near Seekonk offer a wide range of specialties, from cardiology and oncology to women's health and behavioral health. Consider your specific healthcare needs and research the expertise of the hospitals in your area.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The hospitals in the area have expanded their telehealth offerings. However, the availability of telehealth services varies by department. It's best to check with your provider to see if telehealth is a suitable option for your needs.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Physician Availability:** Consider the availability of specialists and primary care physicians in your network.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Check for hospital accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission, which indicates adherence to quality standards.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The hospitals near Seekonk offer a range of healthcare options, with Rhode Island Hospital being the primary flagship institution. The Miriam Hospital generally receives a higher CMS star rating than Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants. ER wait times vary, with smaller hospitals often having shorter wait times. The availability of specialty centers and telehealth services enhances the overall healthcare landscape.

**Recommendations:**

* For comprehensive care and trauma services, Rhode Island Hospital is the primary choice.
* For women's health and newborn care, Women & Infants Hospital is the leading option.
* For strong performance and research, The Miriam Hospital is a good choice.
* For a community hospital experience with potentially shorter wait times, consider Sturdy Memorial Hospital.
* Always verify insurance coverage and check real-time ER wait times before seeking care.
* Consult with your primary care physician to determine the best hospital for your specific needs.

This review provides a starting point for your healthcare decision-making process. Remember to conduct thorough research and consult with your healthcare providers to make the most informed choices for your well-being.