21787, Taneytown, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21787, Taneytown, Maryland is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21787)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Frederick, Maryland, and the surrounding area (ZIP Code 21787), access to quality medical care is a critical consideration. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the major hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a clear, fact-based overview to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: Frederick Health Hospital**

The cornerstone of healthcare in Frederick is Frederick Health Hospital, formerly known as Frederick Memorial Hospital. This is the primary hospital serving the city and surrounding areas. It's a large, full-service facility and a vital resource for the community.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Frederick Health Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on a comprehensive assessment of various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it’s crucial to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a significant factor for many patients. At Frederick Health Hospital, the average ER wait time is a key metric to consider. Data fluctuates, but understanding the typical wait times provides valuable insight. Real-time wait times are often available on the hospital's website and through online platforms.

**Specialized Services:** Frederick Health Hospital boasts a wide array of specialized services. These include a comprehensive cardiac program, a dedicated cancer center, a robust surgical department, and a well-regarded maternity ward. The hospital also offers specialized care for stroke, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. The availability of these specialized services significantly impacts the overall health score.

**Telehealth Integration:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. Frederick Health Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other services. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in person. The hospital's telehealth platform is user-friendly and accessible.

**Beyond Frederick: Exploring Other Options**

While Frederick Health Hospital is the primary provider, residents also have access to other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These options can provide additional choices and specialized care options.

**Meritus Medical Center (Hagerstown, MD):** Located approximately 40 miles west of Frederick, Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown is another significant healthcare provider in the region. It is a large, regional hospital serving Western Maryland.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Meritus Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at Meritus Medical Center are a factor to consider. The hospital's website and other online resources provide information on current wait times.

**Specialized Services:** Meritus Medical Center offers a broad range of specialized services, including a comprehensive cardiac program, a cancer center, and a Level II trauma center. The trauma center is particularly important for handling serious injuries and emergencies.

**Telehealth Integration:** Meritus Medical Center has also invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services.

**Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD):** For residents willing to travel a bit further, Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, offers another option. This hospital is part of the Johns Hopkins Medicine network.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Suburban Hospital consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving 4 or 5 stars. This reflects its strong performance in quality of care and patient outcomes.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at Suburban Hospital are generally comparable to other hospitals in the area. Real-time wait times are available on the hospital's website.

**Specialized Services:** As part of the Johns Hopkins network, Suburban Hospital offers access to a wide array of specialized services, including advanced cardiology, oncology, and neurology programs. The hospital is known for its expertise in complex medical cases.

**Telehealth Integration:** Suburban Hospital has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists through video conferencing.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Urgent Care**

Beyond the major hospitals, several specialty centers and urgent care facilities also contribute to the overall healthcare landscape near ZIP Code 21787.

**Specialty Centers:** The area offers various specialty centers, including outpatient surgery centers, rehabilitation facilities, and mental health clinics. These centers provide focused care for specific medical needs.

**Urgent Care Facilities:** Urgent care centers provide convenient access to care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Several urgent care facilities are located in and around Frederick, offering walk-in appointments and extended hours.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score: A Holistic Approach**

Creating an "Overall Health Score" requires considering multiple factors. It's not just about CMS star ratings or ER wait times. It involves a holistic assessment of the available resources, the quality of care, and the accessibility of services.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the sole determinant, CMS star ratings provide a valuable benchmark of quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times indicate better efficiency and responsiveness.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of specialized services ensures access to advanced care when needed.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth expands access to care and improves convenience.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews offer insights into the patient experience.
* **Accessibility:** The geographic proximity of hospitals and other healthcare facilities is crucial.
* **Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs are a significant factor for many patients.

**Applying the Score: Individual Needs and Preferences**

The "Overall Health Score" should be viewed as a guide, not a definitive ranking. The best hospital for any individual depends on their specific needs and preferences.

**For Routine Care:** Frederick Health Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services and is the most convenient option for many residents.

**For Specialized Care:** Suburban Hospital, with its affiliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine, provides access to a wider range of specialists and advanced treatments. Meritus Medical Center offers specialized care options and a Level II trauma center.

**For Emergency Care:** All three hospitals have emergency rooms, but wait times can vary. Checking real-time wait times before heading to the ER is advisable.

**Telehealth Considerations:** Telehealth is a valuable option for certain types of care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP Code 21787 offers a range of options. Frederick Health Hospital serves as the primary provider, while Meritus Medical Center and Suburban Hospital offer additional choices. By considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The "Overall Health Score" is a tool to aid in this process, but individual needs and preferences should always guide the final decision. Regular review of hospital performance data and patient feedback is recommended to stay informed about the evolving healthcare landscape.