21780, Sabillasville, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21780, Sabillasville, Maryland is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21780)

The residents of Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21780) have access to a diverse healthcare landscape, with several hospitals vying to provide comprehensive medical services. This review assesses the overall health score of the primary hospitals in the area, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and overall patient experience.

**Frederick Health Hospital: The Local Leader**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital, stands as the primary healthcare provider within Frederick County. It's a prominent choice for many residents. FHH holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible score, it indicates a generally average performance across various quality metrics.

FHH's Emergency Department (ED) sees a high volume of patients, and the wait times are a critical factor for residents. According to recent data, the median ER wait time at FHH hovers around the national average, which means patients can expect to spend a few hours in the waiting room before being seen by a physician. This is a crucial factor for residents needing immediate medical attention.

The hospital offers a wide array of specialty services. These include a comprehensive cardiac program with interventional cardiology capabilities, a robust cancer center providing radiation oncology and medical oncology, and a well-regarded obstetrics and gynecology department. FHH has also invested in advanced surgical technologies, including robotic surgery.

Telehealth is another important consideration in modern healthcare. FHH has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services, especially in areas like behavioral health and chronic disease management. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in more rural parts of the county.

Patient satisfaction surveys, while not always perfectly reflective of the overall experience, provide valuable insights. Data suggests that patient satisfaction levels at FHH are generally in line with national averages. However, there are areas where improvement is needed, particularly in communication and wait times.

**Other Hospitals Within Reach**

While FHH is the closest major hospital, residents of 21780 also have access to other facilities within a reasonable driving distance. These options can provide alternatives for specific needs or preferences.

**Meritus Medical Center (Hagerstown, MD):** Located approximately 45 minutes west of Frederick, Meritus Medical Center is a larger regional hospital. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to FHH. Meritus is known for its Level II trauma center, making it a crucial resource for serious injuries and emergencies.

Meritus's ED typically experiences wait times that are comparable to, or sometimes slightly longer than, those at FHH. The hospital offers a broad range of specialties, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and a comprehensive cancer center. Meritus has also invested heavily in telehealth, with robust virtual care options for various specialties.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):** For highly specialized care, residents may consider traveling to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore, approximately an hour and fifteen minutes away. UMMC is a major academic medical center with a 5-star CMS rating, reflecting its exceptional performance in various quality metrics.

UMMC is renowned for its cutting-edge research, advanced treatments, and highly specialized centers, including transplant programs, comprehensive cancer care, and advanced cardiovascular services. However, the longer travel time and potential for higher costs are significant considerations. ED wait times can vary depending on the day and time, but generally, you can expect a longer wait than at local hospitals.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):** Another highly regarded option in Baltimore is Johns Hopkins Hospital. This is a world-renowned institution, consistently ranked among the best hospitals in the nation. It's a destination for complex medical cases and specialized treatments. Johns Hopkins Hospital holds a 5-star CMS rating.

Similar to UMMC, the travel time and potential costs are significant factors. ED wait times can fluctuate, but the hospital's reputation for excellence often attracts a high volume of patients. Johns Hopkins offers a vast array of specialties, including cutting-edge research and advanced treatments.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

Evaluating the overall health score requires a holistic approach, weighing various factors to provide a comprehensive picture of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Offers convenient access, a range of services, and a decent CMS rating. However, the average ER wait times and patient satisfaction scores suggest areas for improvement.

**Meritus Medical Center:** Provides a higher CMS rating and a Level II trauma center, making it a strong alternative, particularly for emergency care. The longer travel time and potential for higher costs are factors to consider.

**University of Maryland Medical Center and Johns Hopkins Hospital:** These are top-tier academic medical centers offering highly specialized care and advanced treatments. The longer travel times, potential for higher costs, and potentially longer ER wait times are significant drawbacks for routine care.

**Telehealth and Access to Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. All the hospitals mentioned have invested in telehealth to varying degrees, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, those with mobility issues, and those seeking convenient access to care.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall health. Factors like communication, wait times, and the overall hospital environment significantly impact patient satisfaction. While data varies, patient satisfaction scores are generally in line with national averages at the local hospitals. However, there's always room for improvement, and hospitals are constantly working to enhance the patient experience.

**Conclusion**

For residents of 21780, Frederick Health Hospital is the primary healthcare provider, offering convenient access and a broad range of services. However, Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown provides a strong alternative, particularly for emergency care. For highly specialized needs, the University of Maryland Medical Center and Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore offer world-class care, but the longer travel times and potential costs must be considered.

Ultimately, the best hospital for an individual depends on their specific healthcare needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Residents should research their options, consider their individual circumstances, and make informed decisions about their healthcare. This review provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape near 21780, allowing residents to make well-informed choices about their health.