02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Seekonk, MA (ZIP Code 02769)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. This review provides a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals within a reasonable radius of Seekonk, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02769), focusing on key metrics like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This assessment aims to equip residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Defining the Scope:**

For this review, "near" is defined as hospitals within a 20-mile radius of Seekonk, encompassing facilities in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This geographic range captures the most likely destinations for Seekonk residents seeking medical care, including major urban centers like Providence, RI, and the Greater Boston area.

**Key Metrics and Methodology:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment based on several critical factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system (1-5 stars) for hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other metrics. These ratings are a crucial indicator of overall performance.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** Average ER wait times are a significant indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Data from CMS and other sources will be used to assess wait times.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence and quality of specialized centers (e.g., cardiology, oncology, orthopedics) are critical for addressing complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The availability of telehealth services is increasingly important for convenient access to care.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Data from patient surveys, such as those collected by CMS, provides insights into patient experiences.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission signifies adherence to high standards of care.
* **Physician Availability:** The density of physicians and specialists in various fields influences access to care.
* **Cost and Financial Performance:** While this is not the primary focus, financial stability and cost-effectiveness are considered.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

Several major hospitals are within the review's scope, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

**1. Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):**

Rhode Island Hospital is a major teaching hospital and the flagship facility of Lifespan Health System. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating, indicating average performance. The hospital is known for its Level I Trauma Center, a critical resource for handling severe injuries. Rhode Island Hospital's ER wait times are often reported to be longer than the national average, sometimes exceeding several hours, which can be a significant concern for patients. The hospital has strong specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology (the comprehensive cancer center), and a renowned neurosurgery program. Telehealth services are available, though specific usage statistics are not readily available. Patient satisfaction scores are mixed, reflecting both positive and negative experiences.

**2. Women & Infants Hospital (Providence, RI):**

Part of the Lifespan system, Women & Infants Hospital, is a nationally recognized center for women's health and obstetrics. It's not rated by CMS, as the ratings are not designed to cover specialty hospitals. The hospital excels in its specialized services, including high-risk obstetrics, neonatal intensive care, and gynecological oncology. ER wait times are generally shorter than at Rhode Island Hospital, but still fluctuate. Telehealth services are available, particularly for prenatal care and postpartum support. Patient satisfaction scores are generally high, reflecting the specialized focus on women's health.

**3. Miriam Hospital (Providence, RI):**

Another Lifespan facility, The Miriam Hospital, is a 4-star CMS-rated hospital. This rating reflects a higher level of quality and patient experience compared to Rhode Island Hospital. The Miriam Hospital has strong programs in cardiology, orthopedics, and behavioral health. ER wait times are generally shorter than at Rhode Island Hospital, though still variable. Telehealth services are available, and the hospital has a strong focus on research and innovation. Patient satisfaction scores are generally positive.

**4. Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):**

Located in Attleboro, MA, Sturdy Memorial Hospital is a community hospital serving the area. It has a 3-star CMS rating. Sturdy Memorial offers a range of services, including a cardiac catheterization lab, a cancer center, and an orthopedic program. ER wait times are generally shorter than at the larger teaching hospitals in Providence. Telehealth services are available, and the hospital focuses on community outreach and patient-centered care. Patient satisfaction scores are generally good.

**5. Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA):**

While located further afield (approximately 40 minutes from Seekonk), Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is a highly regarded academic medical center. It is a 5-star CMS-rated hospital, indicating superior quality and patient experience. MGH is renowned for its specialized centers in virtually every medical field, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and transplantation. ER wait times can be longer, reflecting the hospital's high patient volume and complex cases. MGH has extensive telehealth capabilities, including remote monitoring and virtual consultations. Patient satisfaction scores are generally very high. However, the distance and potential for longer wait times make it a less accessible option for routine care.

**6. Brigham and Women's Hospital (Boston, MA):**

Another major Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, is a 4-star CMS-rated facility. It is known for its advanced specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. ER wait times can be significant, especially during peak hours. The hospital offers extensive telehealth services. Patient satisfaction scores are generally high. Similar to MGH, the distance from Seekonk may limit its use for non-urgent care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital accessibility. Data from CMS and other sources indicate that wait times vary significantly between hospitals. Generally, community hospitals like Sturdy Memorial tend to have shorter wait times than the larger teaching hospitals in Providence and Boston. However, wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Patients experiencing a medical emergency should always seek immediate care, regardless of wait times.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Complex Needs:**

The presence of specialized centers is vital for patients with complex medical conditions. Rhode Island Hospital, MGH, and Brigham and Women's Hospital offer the most comprehensive range of specialty services. Sturdy Memorial Hospital and Miriam Hospital also provide strong programs in specific areas. The choice of a hospital with a specialty center depends on the patient's specific needs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important for convenient access to care. Most hospitals in the area offer telehealth options, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability and usage of telehealth services vary between hospitals.

**Patient Satisfaction: Understanding the Experience:**

Patient satisfaction scores, derived from surveys and other feedback mechanisms, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. These scores reflect factors like communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall satisfaction with care. Patient satisfaction scores vary between hospitals.

**Accreditation and Physician Availability:**

Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission signifies adherence to high standards of care. All the hospitals mentioned are accredited. Physician availability also influences access to care. The larger hospitals in Providence and Boston generally have a higher density of physicians and specialists.

**Cost and Financial Performance:**

While this review does not delve deeply into cost, it is important to note that healthcare costs vary between hospitals. Patients should inquire about costs and insurance coverage before receiving care. Financial performance is also a factor, with hospitals striving to remain financially stable to continue providing services.

**Overall Health Score Summary (For Seekonk Residents):**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Seekonk, MA, is not a single number but a nuanced assessment. The best choice depends on individual needs and circumstances.

* **For routine care and shorter ER wait times:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital is a strong option.
* **For specialized care and access to cutting-edge treatments:** Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston are highly regarded, but consider the longer travel times and potential for longer ER waits.
* **For a balance of quality, accessibility, and specialized services:** The Miriam Hospital in Providence is a solid choice.
* **For women's health needs:** Women & Infants Hospital in Providence is a leading center.
* **For trauma care:** Rhode Island Hospital is the designated Level I Trauma Center.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research and compare hospitals based on your specific healthcare needs.**
* **Consider ER wait times when choosing a hospital for urgent care.**
* **Utilize telehealth services for convenient access to care.**
* **Review patient satisfaction scores to understand the patient experience.**
* **Consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.**
* **Check your insurance coverage and understand costs before receiving care.**

This review provides a starting point for Seekonk residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Further research and consultation with healthcare professionals are always recommended.