02779, Berkley, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 02779, Berkley, Massachusetts is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Seekonk, MA (ZIP Code 02779)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" for hospitals in proximity to Seekonk, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02779), offering a comprehensive look at their performance, services, and accessibility. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, aiming to provide a clear picture for informed healthcare decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the quality of care, often reflected in government-provided ratings. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on various metrics. A higher star rating generally indicates better performance.

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** Located a short distance from Seekonk, Rhode Island Hospital is a major player in the region. It is a Level I Trauma Center and a teaching hospital affiliated with Brown University. While CMS star ratings fluctuate, it consistently strives for high-quality care. Rhode Island Hospital offers a broad spectrum of services, including cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery.

**Women & Infants Hospital (Providence, RI):** Also in Providence, Women & Infants Hospital, affiliated with Brown University, is a specialized facility focusing on women's health and newborn care. It boasts a strong reputation for obstetrics, gynecology, and neonatal intensive care. CMS ratings are specific to the hospital's focus, and its performance in these areas is generally considered excellent.

**Hasbro Children's Hospital (Providence, RI):** Connected to Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children's Hospital provides pediatric care. While it is not rated separately by CMS, it is an important consideration for families with children. It provides a wide range of pediatric specialties and services.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Long waits can be stressful and potentially detrimental to health. Data on ER wait times can vary, but publicly available information from sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website offers a general overview.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** As a major trauma center, Rhode Island Hospital often experiences higher patient volumes. Therefore, wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online tools before visiting the ER.

**Women & Infants Hospital:** ER wait times at Women & Infants Hospital are generally shorter than those at Rhode Island Hospital, reflecting the specialized nature of its emergency services.

**Other Considerations for ER Wait Times:**

It's important to remember that ER wait times are dynamic. Factors like the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of other patients' conditions can influence wait times. Patients with life-threatening emergencies are always prioritized.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, hospitals offer specialized services. The availability of these centers is a crucial factor in determining the best hospital for specific needs.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** Boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including a renowned cardiac center, a comprehensive cancer center, and a leading neurosurgery program. It's also a major transplant center.

**Women & Infants Hospital:** Excels in women's health, offering specialized centers for maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, and gynecologic oncology. The hospital is also known for its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

**Hasbro Children's Hospital:** Provides a full spectrum of pediatric specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and surgery. It has dedicated centers for children with specific needs.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, providing convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** Has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties. This includes primary care, cardiology, and mental health services.

**Women & Infants Hospital:** Offers telehealth options for prenatal care, postpartum care, and other women's health services.

**Hasbro Children's Hospital:** Utilizes telehealth to provide consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health services for children and their families.

**Other Hospitals in the Area:**

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):** Located near Seekonk, Sturdy Memorial Hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and primary care. It is a community hospital that serves the local population. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be checked on the hospital's website or through CMS data.

**Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital (Brockton, MA):** While a bit further from Seekonk, Brockton Hospital offers a wide range of services and is a major healthcare provider in the region.

**Factors Affecting the Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment. It considers several factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Provide a standardized measure of hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Indicate efficiency and access to emergency care.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized centers and programs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The extent of virtual care options.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Feedback from patients. (This is often available on websites like Healthgrades and Vitals.)
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission indicates adherence to quality standards.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. Consider your specific healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences.

* **For Trauma or Critical Care:** Rhode Island Hospital is the leading choice due to its Level I Trauma Center.
* **For Women's Health and Newborn Care:** Women & Infants Hospital is the premier option.
* **For Pediatric Care:** Hasbro Children's Hospital offers comprehensive pediatric services.
* **For General Care:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital and other local hospitals can provide convenient access to care.

**Accessing Information:**

* **CMS Hospital Compare:** The official website for CMS ratings and quality data.
* **Hospital Websites:** Provide information on services, wait times, and telehealth options.
* **Online Review Sites:** Healthgrades, Vitals, and other sites offer patient reviews and ratings.
* **Your Primary Care Physician:** Your doctor can provide recommendations based on your individual needs.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near Seekonk, MA (02779) offer a diverse range of healthcare options. Rhode Island Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, and Hasbro Children's Hospital, all located in Providence, RI, are major providers with strong reputations and specialized services. Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA, offers local access to care. Evaluate your needs, research the available resources, and use the information provided to make the best choice for your health. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number, but a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each facility. Remember to consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.