21540, Luke, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21540, Luke, Maryland is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 21540

Finding the right hospital is crucial for maintaining optimal health. This review provides an in-depth look at the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 21540, focusing on key performance indicators and offering an “Overall Health Score” to help residents make informed decisions. This score considers factors like quality of care, accessibility, patient satisfaction, and specialized services.

**Defining the Scope:**

ZIP code 21540 encompasses the town of Mount Airy, Maryland, and its surrounding areas. This review will primarily focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, including those in Frederick, Carroll, and Montgomery counties. Proximity, accessibility, and the breadth of services offered are key considerations.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on quality metrics. These ratings are a valuable tool for comparing facilities.

**Frederick Health Hospital (Frederick, MD):** Located approximately 15 miles from 21540, Frederick Health Hospital is a major player in the region. While CMS star ratings fluctuate, it consistently strives for high performance. The hospital boasts a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a cardiac catheterization lab, and specialized centers for cancer care, orthopedics, and women's health. Patient satisfaction scores, as reported by CMS, are generally in line with regional averages.

**Carroll Hospital (Westminster, MD):** Situated about 20 miles from Mount Airy, Carroll Hospital is another significant option. It often receives a strong CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality care. The hospital offers a wide array of services, including a comprehensive stroke center, a bariatric surgery program, and a dedicated behavioral health unit. Patient satisfaction scores are generally positive.

**Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD):** Although further afield (approximately 40 miles), Suburban Hospital, part of Johns Hopkins Medicine, is a highly regarded facility. Its association with Johns Hopkins provides access to cutting-edge research and specialized expertise. Suburban consistently receives high CMS star ratings and excels in areas like cardiology, neurology, and cancer care. However, its distance and potential for higher costs may be a consideration for some residents of 21540.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical factor in assessing hospital accessibility. Longer wait times can indicate overcrowding and potential delays in receiving critical care.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** ER wait times at Frederick Health Hospital generally align with regional averages. Patients can often expect to be seen by a provider within a reasonable timeframe, though fluctuations can occur depending on the time of day and the severity of patient needs.

**Carroll Hospital:** Carroll Hospital's ER typically experiences wait times that are comparable to or slightly better than those at Frederick Health Hospital. The hospital's commitment to efficient emergency care is evident in its efforts to streamline patient flow.

**Suburban Hospital:** As a high-volume facility, Suburban Hospital's ER wait times can be variable. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. However, the hospital's highly skilled staff and advanced resources can often expedite care for critical cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is crucial.

**Cardiac Care:** Both Frederick Health Hospital and Carroll Hospital offer comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. Suburban Hospital, with its affiliation with Johns Hopkins, provides access to some of the most advanced cardiac treatments in the region.

**Cancer Care:** Frederick Health Hospital has a dedicated cancer center offering a range of treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. Suburban Hospital’s Johns Hopkins affiliation gives access to advanced cancer research and treatment protocols.

**Orthopedics:** Frederick Health Hospital and Carroll Hospital both have strong orthopedic programs, providing services for joint replacements, sports injuries, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

**Women's Health:** Frederick Health Hospital offers a comprehensive women's health program, including obstetrics, gynecology, and specialized services.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties. This allows patients to access care remotely, improving convenience and reducing travel time.

**Carroll Hospital:** Carroll Hospital also offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with providers virtually. The hospital is actively exploring ways to integrate telehealth into its care delivery model.

**Suburban Hospital:** Suburban Hospital, as part of Johns Hopkins Medicine, has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services.

**Patient Satisfaction and Experience:**

Patient satisfaction is a vital indicator of quality of care. CMS and other organizations gather patient feedback to assess the overall experience.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Patient satisfaction scores at Frederick Health Hospital are generally in line with regional averages. The hospital consistently strives to improve patient experience through initiatives aimed at enhancing communication, comfort, and overall care.

**Carroll Hospital:** Carroll Hospital consistently receives positive patient satisfaction scores, reflecting its commitment to providing compassionate and patient-centered care.

**Suburban Hospital:** Suburban Hospital often receives high patient satisfaction scores, reflecting its focus on providing a superior patient experience.

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Accessibility includes factors like location, parking, and ease of navigating the hospital.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Located in Frederick, MD, the hospital is readily accessible from Mount Airy. Parking is generally available, though it can be busy at peak times.

**Carroll Hospital:** Situated in Westminster, MD, Carroll Hospital is also relatively accessible from Mount Airy. Parking is typically available.

**Suburban Hospital:** Located in Bethesda, MD, Suburban Hospital is the furthest option. Traffic congestion can be a factor, and parking can be challenging.

**Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs can vary significantly between hospitals. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance programs.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Offers financial assistance programs for eligible patients.

**Carroll Hospital:** Provides financial counseling and assistance to help patients manage healthcare costs.

**Suburban Hospital:** Offers financial assistance programs, but costs may be higher than at other facilities.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the factors discussed, here's an estimated "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near ZIP code 21540:

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** **8.0/10** - A strong choice, offering a good balance of quality care, accessibility, and a wide range of services.
* **Carroll Hospital:** **8.2/10** - Often receives high marks for quality and patient satisfaction, making it a solid option.
* **Suburban Hospital:** **8.5/10** - Offers exceptional care, but distance and potential cost considerations may be factors.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and emergencies:** Frederick Health Hospital and Carroll Hospital are excellent choices, providing convenient access to a broad spectrum of services.
* **For specialized care:** Consider Suburban Hospital for complex medical needs, particularly those requiring advanced expertise in cardiology, neurology, or cancer care.
* **Prioritize research:** Patients should research their insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance options at each hospital.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Leverage telehealth options for follow-up appointments and non-emergency consultations to enhance convenience.
* **Factor in Patient Reviews:** Explore online reviews and patient testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of others.

This review provides a starting point for making informed healthcare decisions. Residents of 21540 should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital. It is also advisable to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.