21930, Georgetown, Maryland Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 21930, Georgetown, Maryland is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near North East, Maryland (ZIP Code 21930)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of North East, Maryland (ZIP Code 21930), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial for informed healthcare decisions. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities of the hospitals serving this area.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The primary hospitals serving the 21930 ZIP code are located within a reasonable driving distance, primarily in Cecil County and neighboring areas. While North East itself doesn't boast a major hospital, residents have access to several facilities offering a range of services. The choices include hospitals in Elkton, Maryland, and Wilmington, Delaware, which are within a commutable distance.

**ChristianaCare, Christiana Hospital (Wilmington, DE): A Regional Powerhouse**

Christiana Hospital, part of the ChristianaCare health system, is a major player in the region and often serves as a referral center for complex cases. While not directly within the 21930 ZIP code, its proximity makes it a primary choice for many residents. Christiana Hospital consistently receives high marks for quality and patient safety.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Christiana Hospital holds a commendable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. This suggests a high level of overall quality and patient satisfaction.

* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** Christiana Hospital’s ER sees a high volume of patients. While specific wait times fluctuate based on the time of day and patient volume, it’s generally advisable to anticipate some wait time. Real-time wait time information is often available on the ChristianaCare website and through apps like Google Maps.

* **Specialty Centers:** Christiana Hospital boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. These include a renowned cardiovascular center, a leading cancer center, and a highly regarded women's health center. It also has specialized units for trauma, stroke, and neonatal intensive care. These centers provide advanced treatment options for a wide range of medical conditions.

* **Telehealth Capabilities:** ChristianaCare has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits for a variety of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. This allows patients to access care remotely, improving convenience and access, particularly for those in rural areas.

**Union Hospital of Cecil County (Elkton, MD): A Community Focus**

Union Hospital, located in Elkton, Maryland, is a community hospital serving Cecil County. It provides essential healthcare services and offers a more localized option for residents of the 21930 ZIP code.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Union Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates an average level of quality compared to other hospitals nationwide. While it may not have the same resources as larger regional centers, it still provides essential services and is a convenient option for many residents.

* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times at Union Hospital are generally shorter than those at Christiana Hospital, reflecting a lower patient volume. However, wait times can still vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases.

* **Specialty Centers:** Union Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It has a dedicated women's health center and provides services for various medical conditions.

* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Union Hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings. They provide virtual consultations and remote monitoring services to improve patient access to care.

**Other Healthcare Options:**

Beyond the primary hospitals, residents of the 21930 ZIP code have access to other healthcare providers. These include:

* **Outpatient Clinics:** Several outpatient clinics and urgent care centers are located in the area. These facilities offer convenient access to primary care, urgent care, and specialized services.

* **Specialist Practices:** Numerous specialist practices, including cardiologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists, are available in the region.

* **Rehabilitation Centers:** Rehabilitation centers provide physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services.

**Assessing the "Overall Health Score": Key Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for the 21930 ZIP code is not a single number but a composite assessment. Several factors contribute to this score:

* **Accessibility:** The proximity of hospitals and other healthcare providers is a significant factor. Residents of the 21930 ZIP code have access to hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, providing good accessibility.

* **Quality of Care:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics are crucial indicators of care quality. Christiana Hospital's 4-star rating is a strong positive, while Union Hospital's 3-star rating indicates an average level of care.

* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, cancer treatment, and women's health, is essential for comprehensive care. Christiana Hospital's extensive specialty centers enhance the overall health score.

* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are desirable for urgent medical needs. While wait times vary, residents should be prepared for potential delays, especially at high-volume facilities.

* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or living in rural areas. Both ChristianaCare and Union Hospital's telehealth programs contribute positively to the score.

**Specific Considerations for 21930 Residents:**

* **Proximity to Christiana Hospital:** The relatively short distance to Christiana Hospital provides access to a high-quality, comprehensive medical center.

* **Community Hospital Option:** Union Hospital provides a more localized option for routine care and emergencies.

* **Transportation:** Residents without personal transportation may face challenges accessing healthcare. Public transportation options are limited in the area.

* **Insurance Coverage:** The acceptance of various insurance plans by the hospitals and providers is essential for access to care. Residents should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by their chosen providers.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of the 21930 ZIP code is considered to be good. The presence of Christiana Hospital, with its high CMS star rating and extensive specialty services, significantly elevates the score. Union Hospital provides a valuable community resource. The availability of telehealth services further enhances access to care. However, residents should be aware of potential ER wait times and consider their transportation options.