21087, Kingsville, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21087, Kingsville, Maryland is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 21087

This review assesses the overall health and quality of care provided by hospitals in close proximity to ZIP code 21087, focusing on key performance indicators, specialty services, and patient experience. The analysis considers factors crucial to patient well-being, including safety, efficiency, and access to specialized medical expertise. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview to inform healthcare decisions for residents of the area.

**Defining the Scope:**

The geographic scope of this review primarily encompasses hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of 21087, considering accessibility for residents. This includes hospitals in Harford County and neighboring areas, with particular attention to flagship institutions and those frequently utilized by the community. The review will prioritize hospitals with readily available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available reports.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

A critical metric for assessing hospital quality is the CMS Star Rating system. This rating, based on a five-star scale, evaluates hospitals on various aspects of care, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health (UM UCH) is a major player in the region. While its specific CMS star rating can fluctuate, it's essential to check the most current data available on the CMS Hospital Compare website. UM UCH offers a wide range of services and is a significant provider for the 21087 area. The hospital is often considered a primary healthcare provider for the residents of Bel Air, MD.

Johns Hopkins Hospital, located further south, is a nationally renowned institution. While not directly within the immediate vicinity of 21087, its reputation and the availability of specialized services make it a relevant consideration for residents seeking advanced care. Johns Hopkins consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation, and its CMS star rating is generally high, reflecting its commitment to quality. It should be noted that access to Johns Hopkins may involve a longer travel time.

**Emergency Room Performance and Wait Times:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and responsiveness. Prolonged wait times can negatively impact patient outcomes, especially in critical situations.

UM UCH's ER wait times should be a key consideration for residents. Publicly available data, often accessible on hospital websites or through platforms like ProPublica, can provide insights into average wait times. It's important to note that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases.

Other local hospitals, such as those affiliated with MedStar Health, should also be evaluated for their ER performance. The availability of real-time wait time information, often displayed on hospital websites or in mobile apps, is a valuable resource for patients.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is a significant factor in determining a hospital's overall quality. This includes centers for cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics, and other specialized areas.

UM UCH, as a major regional provider, typically offers a comprehensive range of specialty services. Residents should investigate the specific programs offered, including the availability of specialized physicians, advanced diagnostic equipment, and support services.

Johns Hopkins Hospital is a leader in numerous specialties. Its specialized centers for cancer treatment, heart disease, and neurological disorders are highly regarded. However, accessing these services may require referrals and longer travel times.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially in recent years. Telehealth allows patients to access healthcare remotely, improving access to care and convenience.

Hospitals in the 21087 area should be evaluated for their telehealth offerings. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals. The ease of use and accessibility of these services are important considerations.

UM UCH and other local providers are likely to have expanded their telehealth capabilities. Residents should check hospital websites for information on available telehealth services and how to access them.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare quality. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into how patients perceive their care.

The CMS Hospital Compare website provides data on patient experience, including ratings on communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment.

Residents should review patient satisfaction scores for hospitals in the area. These scores can help assess the quality of care from a patient's perspective.

**Specific Hospital Profiles and Considerations:**

* **University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health (UM UCH):** As a key provider in the region, UM UCH's performance across various metrics is paramount. Residents should investigate its CMS star rating, ER wait times, and the availability of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. The hospital's commitment to community health initiatives and its integration with the University of Maryland system are also important factors.
* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** While not directly in the immediate vicinity, Johns Hopkins' reputation and specialized services make it a significant consideration. Residents should evaluate the feasibility of accessing its services, considering travel time and referral requirements. The hospital's expertise in areas like cancer treatment, cardiology, and neurology is a major draw.
* **Other Local Hospitals:** Hospitals affiliated with MedStar Health or other regional networks should be evaluated for their specific services, ER performance, and patient satisfaction scores. These hospitals may offer convenient access to care for residents.

**Factors to Consider for Specific Needs:**

* **For Cardiology:** Assess the availability of interventional cardiology services, cardiac surgery, and advanced imaging techniques.
* **For Oncology:** Evaluate the availability of comprehensive cancer treatment programs, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.
* **For Orthopedics:** Consider the expertise of orthopedic surgeons, the availability of joint replacement procedures, and rehabilitation services.
* **For Women's Health:** Investigate the availability of obstetrics and gynecology services, including prenatal care, childbirth services, and gynecological surgery.

**Data Sources and Verification:**

The information presented in this review is based on publicly available data from sources such as:

* **Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):** Hospital Compare website for star ratings, patient satisfaction scores, and other performance data.
* **Hospital Websites:** For information on services, physician directories, and telehealth offerings.
* **ProPublica:** For ER wait time data and other hospital performance metrics.
* **Healthgrades:** For physician ratings and patient reviews.

It is crucial to verify the accuracy of the information by consulting the most current data available from these sources.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital is a significant decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating the quality of care provided by hospitals near ZIP code 21087. Residents should carefully consider the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth offerings, and patient experience. By conducting thorough research and consulting with healthcare providers, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The best hospital for an individual will depend on their specific needs, preferences, and the availability of specialized services. It is recommended to regularly check the CMS Hospital Compare website and other reliable sources for the most up-to-date information.