21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21782, Sharpsburg, Maryland is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 21782

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, particularly when facing a health crisis. For residents near ZIP code 21782 (Emmitsburg, Maryland, and surrounding areas), several healthcare options are available, each with its strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and more, to help you make an informed choice.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus of this review is hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of 21782. This includes facilities in Frederick County, Maryland, and potentially those just across the Pennsylvania border. Data is sourced from publicly available information, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reliable sources. Note that hospital performance can fluctuate, and this review reflects the most current data available at the time of writing.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

A crucial indicator of hospital quality is the CMS star rating. This system provides a snapshot of a hospital's performance based on various quality measures.

**Frederick Health Hospital (Frederick, MD):** Located approximately 20-30 minutes south of Emmitsburg, Frederick Health Hospital is a major player in the region. As of the latest data, it holds a respectable CMS star rating. This rating reflects performance across areas like patient experience, readmission rates, and mortality. Frederick Health Hospital is a comprehensive facility offering a wide range of services.

**WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital (Gettysburg, PA):** Situated about 20-30 minutes north of Emmitsburg, across the state line, WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital also serves the area. Its CMS star rating is a key factor to consider. WellSpan Gettysburg offers a variety of services and is part of a larger healthcare network.

**Evaluating Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in urgent situations. Shorter wait times can translate to quicker access to care and potentially better outcomes.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital's ER typically experiences moderate wait times. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's generally within the average range for hospitals of its size. The hospital has invested in initiatives to improve ER efficiency, including streamlined triage processes.

**WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital:** WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital's ER wait times are also an important consideration. Like Frederick Health, wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Checking real-time wait times online or through hospital apps is recommended before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is vital for specific medical needs.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital boasts a strong array of specialty centers. Its heart and vascular institute is well-regarded, offering advanced cardiac care. The hospital also has a comprehensive cancer center, providing a range of treatments and support services. Other notable specialties include orthopedics, women's health, and behavioral health.

**WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital:** WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital provides a range of specialized services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a dedicated cancer center. The hospital also offers a robust surgical program.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings. Patients can access virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care and certain specialist appointments. The hospital has invested in telehealth platforms to enhance patient access and convenience.

**WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital:** WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital has also embraced telehealth. They offer virtual visits for a variety of services, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues.

**Other Important Considerations:**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors contribute to the overall health score.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide insights into patient experiences. Both Frederick Health and WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital consistently strive to improve patient satisfaction. Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews can offer additional perspectives.

**Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs):** HAIs are a serious concern. Hospitals are constantly working to minimize the risk of infections. CMS and other organizations track HAI rates, and this data can be a factor in evaluating hospital quality.

**Community Health Needs Assessments:** Hospitals often conduct community health needs assessments to identify the most pressing health issues in their service areas. This information can provide context for understanding the hospital's priorities and community involvement.

**Financial Stability:** The financial health of a hospital is also relevant. A financially stable hospital is more likely to invest in new technologies, staff, and services. Publicly available financial data can provide insights into a hospital's financial standing.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 21782 can be summarized as follows:

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital is a strong choice, particularly for its comprehensive services and well-established reputation. Its CMS star rating, diverse specialty centers, and growing telehealth capabilities make it a solid option. ER wait times are generally moderate, and the hospital continues to invest in improving patient care.

**WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital:** WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital provides a valuable service to the area. Its CMS star rating, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities are important considerations. ER wait times should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Making Your Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Consider your individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences. Review the data presented in this review, research specific specialties if needed, and consult with your primary care physician to make the best choice for your health. Remember to check real-time ER wait times and telehealth availability before seeking care.