21084, Jarrettsville, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21084, Jarrettsville, Maryland is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 21084 (Ellicott City, MD)

The pursuit of optimal healthcare often begins with location. For residents of Ellicott City, Maryland (ZIP code 21084), access to quality medical facilities is a crucial consideration. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the prominent hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**Defining the Scope:**

This assessment primarily focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Ellicott City. While proximity is a factor, the quality of care remains paramount. The analysis will incorporate data from reputable sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available reports.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

The landscape of healthcare near 21084 is dominated by several major players, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

**1. Howard County General Hospital (Columbia, MD):**

Howard County General Hospital (HCGH), a member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, stands out as a primary choice for many in the area. Its affiliation with Johns Hopkins provides access to a vast network of specialists and resources. HCGH consistently receives high marks for patient safety and quality of care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** HCGH generally receives a 4-star rating from CMS, reflecting a solid performance in various quality measures. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, readmission rates, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at HCGH are typically competitive, with an average wait time for treatment often below the national average. Specific wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume.
* **Specialty Centers:** HCGH boasts robust specialty centers, including a comprehensive cardiac care program, a dedicated cancer center, and a well-regarded maternity ward. The hospital also offers advanced surgical capabilities, including robotic surgery.
* **Telehealth Services:** HCGH has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for a range of specialties, including primary care, mental health, and follow-up appointments. This expansion has significantly improved access to care, particularly for patients in remote areas or those with mobility issues.
* **Overall Health Score:** 8.5/10. HCGH offers a strong combination of quality, access, and specialized services, making it a top choice for residents of 21084.

**2. University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center (Towson, MD):**

Located a bit further afield, University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center (St. Joseph's) is another significant option. It is a well-established hospital with a long history of serving the Baltimore metropolitan area.

* **CMS Star Rating:** St. Joseph's typically receives a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a good level of care but may indicate areas for improvement compared to higher-rated facilities.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at St. Joseph's can vary, sometimes exceeding the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours.
* **Specialty Centers:** St. Joseph's has a strong focus on women's health, with a dedicated obstetrics and gynecology department. It also has specialized centers for orthopedics, cardiology, and cancer care.
* **Telehealth Services:** St. Joseph's offers a growing range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. However, the scope of these services may be more limited than at some other hospitals.
* **Overall Health Score:** 7.8/10. St. Joseph's provides a solid level of care with notable strengths in women's health, but its ER wait times and CMS rating are areas for consideration.

**3. Sinai Hospital of Baltimore (Baltimore, MD):**

Sinai Hospital, part of LifeBridge Health, is another option within a reasonable driving distance. It is known for its commitment to community health and its comprehensive range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sinai Hospital typically receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Sinai Hospital can fluctuate, but generally, they are similar to or slightly above the national average.
* **Specialty Centers:** Sinai Hospital is known for its specialized programs in areas like geriatrics, behavioral health, and rehabilitation. It has a strong focus on serving diverse patient populations.
* **Telehealth Services:** Sinai Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual visits and remote patient monitoring.
* **Overall Health Score:** 7.5/10. Sinai Hospital provides a wide range of services with a focus on community health, but its CMS rating and ER wait times are areas for consideration.

**4. Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):**

Johns Hopkins Hospital, a world-renowned institution, is accessible to residents of 21084, though it is located further away and often requires a longer travel time. It is the flagship hospital of Johns Hopkins Medicine and offers unparalleled expertise and resources.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently receives a high CMS star rating, often 4 or 5 stars, reflecting its exceptional quality of care.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Johns Hopkins Hospital can vary, often reflecting the complexity of cases treated.
* **Specialty Centers:** Johns Hopkins Hospital boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers, including world-class programs in cardiology, oncology, neurology, and transplantation. It is at the forefront of medical innovation and research.
* **Telehealth Services:** Johns Hopkins Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists across a wide range of disciplines.
* **Overall Health Score:** 9.0/10. Johns Hopkins Hospital offers exceptional care and access to cutting-edge treatments, making it a top choice for complex medical needs, despite the longer travel time.

**5. Mercy Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):**

Mercy Medical Center is another Baltimore hospital that is accessible to residents of 21084.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Mercy Medical Center generally receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Mercy Medical Center can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** Mercy Medical Center is known for its specialty programs in women's health, orthopedics, and cancer care.
* **Telehealth Services:** Mercy Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual visits.
* **Overall Health Score:** 7.0/10. Mercy Medical Center provides a range of services.

**Factors Beyond the Hospitals:**

While hospital quality is critical, other factors influence overall health.

* **Primary Care Physicians:** The availability and quality of primary care physicians are crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. Residents of 21084 have access to a range of primary care providers, including internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatricians.
* **Specialist Availability:** Access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is essential for managing complex medical conditions. The hospitals mentioned above and the surrounding medical community offer a wide range of specialists.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in healthcare access and affordability. Residents should understand their insurance plans and the hospitals and providers that are in-network.
* **Community Health Resources:** Local health departments and community organizations offer valuable resources, including health education programs, support groups, and assistance with accessing healthcare services.

**Telehealth Trends and Considerations:**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery.

* **Benefits:** Telehealth offers increased convenience, reduced travel time, and improved access to specialists, especially for those in remote areas or with mobility limitations.
* **Limitations:** Telehealth may not be suitable for all medical conditions, and it relies on reliable internet access and technology.
* **Future Outlook:** Telehealth is expected to continue expanding, with more hospitals and providers offering virtual services.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Residents of 21084 should consider their individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when selecting a hospital.

* **Research:** Conduct thorough research, comparing hospitals based on the factors discussed in this review.
* **Consult Your Physician:** Consult with your primary care physician for recommendations and guidance.
* **Consider Your Needs:** Evaluate your specific healthcare needs, such as the availability of specialized services or the importance of ER wait times.
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to gain insights into patient experiences.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near 21084 offer a range of options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Howard County General Hospital, with its affiliation with Johns Hopkins, generally provides a high level of care and access. Johns Hopkins Hospital offers world-class expertise. Residents should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review to make informed healthcare decisions that best meet their needs. The evolving landscape of telehealth further enhances access to care, providing additional options for residents of Ellicott City and the surrounding areas. By understanding the available resources and making informed choices, residents can strive for optimal health and well-being.