21912, Warwick, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21912, Warwick, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 21912

This review analyzes the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 21912 (Elkton, Maryland), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The assessment considers factors such as Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, emergency room wait times, the presence of specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Residents of 21912 are primarily served by hospitals in Cecil County, Maryland, and those located across the state line in Delaware. Proximity is a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. The review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering traffic patterns and potential delays.

**ChristianaCare, Newark, DE (Flagship)**

ChristianaCare, located in Newark, Delaware, is a major regional healthcare provider and a significant option for residents of 21912. This flagship hospital boasts a high volume of patients and a wide range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** ChristianaCare’s main campus in Newark consistently receives a 4-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Department:** ChristianaCare’s emergency departments (including the Newark campus) are known for high patient volume. While precise wait times fluctuate, they are generally within the regional average. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, especially during peak hours. ChristianaCare’s EDs are equipped to handle a broad spectrum of medical emergencies.
* **Specialty Centers:** ChristianaCare houses several specialized centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular center, and a neuroscience institute. These centers offer advanced treatments and technologies. The hospital also has a robust women’s health program and a dedicated children’s hospital (Wilmington Hospital).
* **Telehealth:** ChristianaCare has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. Telehealth options provide convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Overall Health Score:** ChristianaCare scores highly due to its comprehensive services, strong CMS rating, and advanced specialty centers. The high volume and potential ER wait times are factors to consider, but the hospital's overall quality and accessibility make it a top choice for many residents.

**Union Hospital of Cecil County, Elkton, MD**

Union Hospital, located directly in Elkton (21921), offers a more local healthcare option. It is a community hospital serving Cecil County.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Union Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.
* **Emergency Department:** Union Hospital’s ER provides emergency care to the local community. Wait times can vary, but are typically shorter than those at larger, higher-volume hospitals. The ER is equipped to handle a range of medical emergencies.
* **Specialty Centers:** Union Hospital offers a selection of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a wound care center. It has a focus on serving the immediate needs of the community.
* **Telehealth:** Union Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. These services enhance accessibility for patients in the surrounding area.
* **Overall Health Score:** Union Hospital provides a convenient option for residents of 21912, particularly for routine care and less complex emergencies. Its 3-star CMS rating and focus on community needs make it a solid choice, though its scope is more limited than ChristianaCare.

**Other Considerations: Delaware Hospitals**

Several hospitals in Delaware, particularly those in the Wilmington area, are also accessible to residents of 21912. These hospitals offer a range of services and may be preferred by some patients.

* **St. Francis Hospital (Wilmington, DE):** Part of Trinity Health, St. Francis Hospital is a smaller hospital that often has shorter wait times than ChristianaCare. It has a focus on community health and provides a range of services, including cardiology and oncology.
* **Nemours Children's Health, Delaware (Wilmington, DE):** This hospital is dedicated to pediatric care and offers specialized services for children. It is a valuable resource for families with children in the 21912 area.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in urgent situations. Data on ER wait times is readily available through websites like Hospital Compare (CMS) and individual hospital websites. It is important to check these resources for the most up-to-date information. Factors influencing wait times include the time of day, the severity of the patient's condition, and the overall patient volume.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth offers convenient access to healthcare providers for a variety of needs, including routine follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health consultations. The availability of telehealth services varies by hospital and specialty.

**Specialty Centers: Advanced Care**

The presence of specialized centers is a key indicator of hospital quality. These centers offer advanced treatments and technologies for specific medical conditions. ChristianaCare’s comprehensive specialty centers provide a significant advantage for residents of the 21912 area.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is another important factor. The ease of getting to a hospital, including traffic conditions and public transportation options, should be considered. For residents of 21912, driving is the primary mode of transportation to most hospitals.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the factors analyzed, the following 'Overall Health Score' is provided:

* **ChristianaCare (Newark, DE):** High. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, a strong CMS rating, and advanced specialty centers. While ER wait times can be a factor, the overall quality and accessibility make it a top choice.
* **Union Hospital of Cecil County (Elkton, MD):** Moderate. This hospital provides a convenient option for local residents, with shorter ER wait times and a focus on community needs. Its scope is more limited than ChristianaCare, and its CMS rating is lower.
* **Other Delaware Hospitals (St. Francis, Nemours):** Variable. These hospitals offer specialized services and may be a good choice depending on individual needs.

**Recommendations for Residents of 21912**

* **For Comprehensive Care:** ChristianaCare is recommended for its broad range of services and high quality.
* **For Local Convenience:** Union Hospital provides a convenient option for routine care and less complex emergencies.
* **For Pediatric Care:** Nemours Children's Health, Delaware is recommended for families with children.
* **Before a visit:** Check ER wait times online and consider telehealth options for non-emergency situations.
* **Consider your needs:** Evaluate your specific healthcare needs and choose the hospital that best meets those needs.
* **Research:** Review hospital websites and resources like Hospital Compare (CMS) for detailed information.
* **Consult with your doctor:** Discuss your healthcare needs and preferences with your primary care physician.

This review provides a general overview of the healthcare options available to residents of 21912. Individual circumstances and preferences should be considered when making healthcare decisions. It is crucial to stay informed and make choices that best meet your individual needs.