21742, Hagerstown, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21742, Hagerstown, Maryland is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21742)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" for hospitals in and around Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21742), offering a fact-rich assessment to aid informed decision-making. The evaluation considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This is not a ranking, but a comprehensive overview.

**Frederick Health Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Frederick Health Hospital, formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital, stands as the primary healthcare provider within the city of Frederick. It's a significant player, offering a broad range of services. As of the latest publicly available data, Frederick Health Hospital holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to delve deeper into specific areas.

Frederick Health Hospital's Emergency Department (ED) is a critical access point. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to understand the context. National averages for ED wait times can range, and local conditions (e.g., seasonal illnesses, staffing levels) significantly impact these figures. Patients should anticipate potential wait times and consider the severity of their condition when choosing where to seek care. Frederick Health Hospital has invested in its emergency services, including a dedicated pediatric emergency room.

Frederick Health Hospital boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. The hospital's Heart & Vascular Center provides advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The Cancer Institute offers comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. The hospital also has a well-regarded Women's Health Center, providing obstetrical and gynecological services.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for healthcare accessibility. Frederick Health Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. The availability and scope of telehealth services can vary depending on the specialty and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should directly inquire about the availability of telehealth options for their specific needs.

**Other Hospitals in the Region: Expanding Options**

While Frederick Health Hospital is the closest, residents of 21742 have access to other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, expanding their healthcare options.

**Inova Loudoun Hospital (Leesburg, VA): A Regional Player**

Located approximately 30-40 minutes from Frederick, Inova Loudoun Hospital in Leesburg, Virginia, offers a different set of healthcare resources. Inova Loudoun Hospital holds a **4-star rating from CMS**. This indicates a higher level of overall quality compared to Frederick Health Hospital.

Inova Loudoun Hospital's ED also serves a large patient population. Wait times, like any ED, are subject to fluctuations. The hospital's website and online resources often provide estimated wait times, but these are snapshots and should be interpreted with caution.

Inova Loudoun Hospital has a strong reputation for its specialized services. The hospital features a comprehensive cancer center, a dedicated heart and vascular institute, and a robust women's health program. Inova Loudoun Hospital is also a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle severe injuries.

Telehealth is a key component of Inova's healthcare strategy. Inova offers a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual urgent care, specialist consultations, and remote monitoring programs. Patients can access these services through the Inova Health System portal.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD): A Tertiary Care Option**

For complex medical needs, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore, approximately an hour's drive from Frederick, provides tertiary care services. UMMC is a major academic medical center and a Level I Trauma Center.

UMMC, as a large academic medical center, has a different operational structure than community hospitals. CMS ratings are not always directly comparable between different types of institutions, but UMMC generally performs well in quality metrics.

UMMC's ED sees a high volume of patients. Wait times can be longer than at community hospitals, especially for non-life-threatening conditions. Patients should be prepared for potential delays.

UMMC is renowned for its specialized programs. It houses the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, a world-renowned trauma center. UMMC also offers advanced cardiology, neurology, and oncology services, among others. The hospital is a leader in transplant medicine.

Telehealth is an integral part of UMMC's service offerings. The hospital provides telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments.

**Meritus Medical Center (Hagerstown, MD): Serving the Western Maryland Region**

Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown, approximately a 45-minute drive from Frederick, serves the western Maryland region. Meritus Medical Center holds a **3-star rating from CMS**.

Meritus Medical Center's ED is a vital resource for the Hagerstown area. Wait times fluctuate, and patients should check online resources or call ahead for estimated wait times.

Meritus Medical Center offers a range of specialized services, including cardiac care, cancer treatment, and women's health services. The hospital has a surgical center and a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

Telehealth services are available at Meritus Medical Center, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. The hospital is continually expanding its telehealth capabilities.

**Factors to Consider Beyond Ratings and Wait Times**

While CMS star ratings and ED wait times offer valuable insights, they are not the sole determinants of hospital quality. Other factors to consider include:

* **Physician Credentials and Experience:** Researching the qualifications and experience of physicians is crucial. Check their board certifications and read patient reviews.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission indicates adherence to quality and safety standards. All hospitals mentioned are accredited.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those collected by CMS, offer insights into patient experiences.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Specific Needs:** Consider your individual healthcare needs and choose a hospital that specializes in those areas.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 21742 offers a variety of options. Frederick Health Hospital serves as a local anchor, while Inova Loudoun Hospital, University of Maryland Medical Center, and Meritus Medical Center provide alternative choices. By considering CMS star ratings, ED wait times, specialized services, telehealth capabilities, and other factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This review provides a starting point for navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, empowering individuals to prioritize their health and well-being. Remember to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.