21769, Middletown, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21769, Middletown, Maryland is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21769)

Frederick, Maryland, nestled in the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains, offers a blend of historical charm and suburban convenience. When it comes to healthcare, residents of the 21769 ZIP code have several options within a reasonable radius. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the major hospitals serving this area, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis is designed to provide a factual, data-driven overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Frederick Health Hospital (formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital)**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), the primary healthcare provider within the city of Frederick, anchors the local medical landscape. It holds a respectable three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates an average performance across various quality measures. FHH consistently scores well in areas like patient safety and readmission rates, suggesting a commitment to preventing complications and ensuring positive patient outcomes.

Emergency room (ER) wait times at FHH are a crucial consideration for residents. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, average wait times are generally in line with national averages. It's important to note that ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of incoming cases. Patients experiencing life-threatening conditions are, of course, prioritized. FHH’s ER is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, including cardiac events, strokes, and trauma.

FHH boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Its heart and vascular institute offers advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery. The hospital’s cancer center provides integrated oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. Other notable specialties include orthopedics, with a focus on joint replacement and sports medicine, and a robust women's health program. Telehealth services are available, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up appointments remotely. While the specific utilization rates of telehealth are not publicly available, FHH has been actively expanding its virtual care offerings in recent years.

**Meritus Medical Center (Hagerstown, MD)**

Approximately a 45-minute drive west of Frederick, Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown provides another significant healthcare option for residents of the 21769 ZIP code. Meritus has earned a three-star rating from CMS, mirroring the performance of Frederick Health Hospital. This indicates a comparable level of overall quality across the evaluated metrics.

ER wait times at Meritus are generally comparable to those at FHH, though, again, these times can fluctuate. The ER at Meritus is a Level II trauma center, equipped to handle a broad spectrum of emergencies, including severe injuries. This designation signifies a higher level of trauma care compared to facilities without this accreditation.

Meritus offers a diverse array of specialty services. Its heart and vascular center provides advanced cardiac care, including cardiac catheterization and angioplasty. The hospital features a comprehensive cancer center, offering medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Meritus also has a strong focus on orthopedics, with specialized programs for joint replacement and sports medicine. Telehealth services are available at Meritus, enabling remote consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital has been investing in expanding its telehealth capabilities to enhance patient access to care.

**Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD)**

While located further afield, approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive southeast of Frederick, Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, MD, is a highly regarded option. Suburban is part of Johns Hopkins Medicine and is known for its high standards of care. The hospital consistently receives a five-star rating from CMS, the highest possible, reflecting its strong performance across a wide range of quality indicators. This includes excellent scores for patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience.

ER wait times at Suburban Hospital are generally competitive, though, as with other hospitals, these can vary. The ER is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

Suburban Hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialty services. As part of Johns Hopkins Medicine, it benefits from access to cutting-edge research and advanced medical technologies. Notable specialties include cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital is particularly well-known for its cancer care, offering a full spectrum of treatments and access to clinical trials. Telehealth services are integrated into various departments, enabling remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Suburban Hospital actively leverages telehealth to expand access to its specialized services.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of the 21769 ZIP code may also consider smaller, specialized facilities or outpatient clinics. These can provide convenient access to specific services, such as physical therapy, urgent care, or diagnostic imaging. The availability of these facilities can vary depending on the specific healthcare needs of the individual.

**Telehealth Landscape**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. All three hospitals discussed – Frederick Health Hospital, Meritus Medical Center, and Suburban Hospital – offer telehealth services to varying degrees. These services can include virtual consultations with physicians, remote monitoring of patients' conditions, and online access to medical records. The utilization of telehealth has increased significantly in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability and accessibility of telehealth services are expected to continue to expand in the future.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Choosing the "best" hospital is a highly individual decision, dependent on specific needs and priorities. Residents of the 21769 ZIP code have several options, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** Provides convenient, local access to a broad range of services. Its three-star CMS rating indicates average performance.
* **Meritus Medical Center:** Offers another option within a reasonable driving distance, with a comparable CMS rating.
* **Suburban Hospital:** The highest-rated hospital, with a five-star CMS rating, offering access to advanced care within the Johns Hopkins Medicine system. However, it is located further away.

ER wait times are a critical factor, and all hospitals strive to provide timely care. Specialty services vary, and patients should carefully consider their specific healthcare needs when selecting a provider. Telehealth services are available at all three hospitals, expanding access to care.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for residents of the 21769 ZIP code is positive, with multiple options for quality healthcare. The best choice depends on individual circumstances, including the nature of the medical condition, preferred location, and access to specific specialists. Residents are encouraged to research their options thoroughly, considering the factors outlined in this review, and consult with their primary care physicians to determine the most appropriate healthcare provider for their needs.