21762, Libertytown, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21762, Libertytown, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21762)

This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21762), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and available services. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score."

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

The primary healthcare providers serving Frederick County are Frederick Health Hospital and Meritus Medical Center, both of which are crucial to the community's health.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** This hospital, formerly known as Frederick Memorial Hospital, is the dominant player in the area. It boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), reflecting a generally good performance across various quality metrics. The hospital's strengths often lie in its commitment to patient safety and its robust services. Frederick Health Hospital is known for its comprehensive cancer care through the James and Frances D. Staley Cancer Center, which offers radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. It also features a dedicated cardiac care unit and a well-regarded maternity ward.

**Meritus Medical Center:** Located in Hagerstown, a short drive from Frederick, Meritus Medical Center is another significant option for residents. While not directly within the 21762 ZIP code, its proximity and the scope of its services make it relevant. Meritus Medical Center also holds a four-star CMS rating. It is known for its trauma center designation and its broad range of specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. Meritus has invested in advanced technology and offers a variety of specialized programs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and accessibility. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate constantly, general trends can be observed.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** The ER at Frederick Health Hospital generally experiences moderate wait times. Data from sources like the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) and third-party platforms provide insights into average wait times, which can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. It is advisable to check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online resources before heading to the ER.

**Meritus Medical Center:** Meritus Medical Center's ER typically experiences wait times that are comparable to or slightly longer than those at Frederick Health Hospital. The hospital's status as a regional trauma center may contribute to longer wait times, as it often receives more critical cases. As with Frederick Health Hospital, checking real-time data is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Specialized Care**

Access to specialized care is a critical factor in assessing the overall health landscape. Both Frederick Health Hospital and Meritus Medical Center offer a range of specialty services.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** In addition to its cancer center and cardiac services, Frederick Health Hospital offers specialized programs in areas like stroke care, diabetes management, and behavioral health. The hospital has a strong focus on women's health, with comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology services. It also has a dedicated bariatric surgery program.

**Meritus Medical Center:** Meritus Medical Center is a regional leader in several specialties. Its trauma center is a major asset, providing immediate care for serious injuries. The hospital also features a comprehensive heart and vascular institute, a neurosciences center, and specialized orthopedic services. Meritus offers advanced surgical capabilities, including robotic surgery.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in recent years, for expanding access to care and improving convenience.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for a variety of specialties. These virtual appointments are particularly useful for follow-up consultations, medication management, and mental health services. The hospital also provides remote monitoring programs for patients with chronic conditions.

**Meritus Medical Center:** Meritus Medical Center has also expanded its telehealth offerings. The hospital provides virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online educational resources. Telehealth is used to support various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and cardiology.

**Community Health and Preventative Care**

Beyond hospital services, the overall health score is influenced by community health initiatives and preventative care programs.

**Frederick County Health Department:** The Frederick County Health Department plays a vital role in public health. It provides a range of services, including immunizations, disease prevention programs, and health education. The health department also offers resources for mental health, substance abuse, and chronic disease management.

**Community Health Centers:** Several community health centers serve the Frederick area, offering affordable primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services. These centers are particularly important for underserved populations.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 21762 is generally positive. The presence of two well-regarded hospitals, Frederick Health Hospital and Meritus Medical Center, provides a strong foundation of care. Both hospitals have earned respectable CMS star ratings, reflecting a commitment to quality.

The availability of specialized services, including comprehensive cancer care, cardiac care, and trauma services, enhances the health landscape. The expansion of telehealth services by both hospitals further improves accessibility and convenience.

While emergency room wait times can be a concern, the presence of multiple hospitals and the ongoing efforts to improve efficiency mitigate this issue. The community health initiatives and preventative care programs offered by the Frederick County Health Department and community health centers contribute to a holistic approach to health.

**Areas for Improvement**

While the overall health score is good, there are areas for potential improvement.

**Mental Health Services:** While both hospitals offer behavioral health services, the demand for mental health care often exceeds the available resources. Expanding access to mental health professionals and services remains a priority.

**Accessibility:** While telehealth is helping, ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents, including those with transportation challenges or limited internet access, is an ongoing concern.

**Preventative Care:** Continued investment in preventative care programs, such as screenings and health education, can help reduce the burden of chronic diseases and improve overall health outcomes.

**Conclusion**

Residents near ZIP code 21762 have access to a solid healthcare system. The combination of high-quality hospitals, specialized services, and expanding telehealth offerings provides a strong foundation for health. Continued efforts to address areas for improvement, such as mental health access and preventative care, will further enhance the overall health score for this community.