04413, Brookton, Maine Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 04413, Brookton, Maine is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Bangor, ME (ZIP Code 04413)

This review provides an in-depth analysis of the healthcare landscape surrounding Bangor, Maine (ZIP code 04413), focusing on hospital performance, accessibility, and the breadth of services available. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth adoption to offer a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for the region.

**The Flagship: Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC)**

Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor stands as the primary tertiary care center for the region. As a flagship hospital, its performance significantly influences the overall health score for the area. EMMC holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. CMS evaluates hospitals based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

EMMC boasts a robust infrastructure, including a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive cancer care program, and a dedicated heart and vascular institute. The hospital's emergency department (ED) is a critical access point for the community. **Average ED wait times at EMMC fluctuate, but recent data suggests they are generally within the national average, often ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.** However, it's crucial to remember that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Services at EMMC**

EMMC houses several specialized centers catering to diverse medical needs. The **Cancer Care Center** provides a full spectrum of services, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. The **Heart and Vascular Institute** offers advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital also features a **Women's Health Center** and a **Children's Center**, providing specialized care for these patient populations.

**Telehealth Integration at EMMC**

Northern Light Health, the parent organization of EMMC, has actively embraced telehealth. **Telehealth services are offered across multiple specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and cardiology.** This allows patients in the surrounding areas, including those in more rural communities, to access care remotely, improving access and convenience. The utilization rates of telehealth services at EMMC have increased significantly, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the growing acceptance and effectiveness of this technology.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity**

While EMMC is the primary hospital, several other healthcare facilities provide services within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 04413. These facilities contribute to the overall health score by offering alternative care options and reducing the burden on EMMC.

**St. Joseph Hospital (Bangor)**

St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor, also part of the Northern Light Health system, offers a different perspective on healthcare. **St. Joseph Hospital holds a 4-star CMS rating, slightly higher than EMMC.** This indicates a stronger performance in certain areas, potentially including patient experience and safety.

St. Joseph Hospital focuses on providing a range of services, including surgical care, rehabilitation, and behavioral health services. It also has a dedicated **Emergency Department, with wait times that are often comparable to or slightly shorter than those at EMMC.** The hospital's emphasis on patient-centered care and its strong performance in key metrics contribute positively to the overall health score for the region.

**Penobscot Bay Medical Center (Rockport)**

While located further south, Penobscot Bay Medical Center in Rockport provides services that can be relevant to residents in the 04413 area, particularly for those seeking specialized care or in need of a different hospital setting. **Penobscot Bay Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.**

Penobscot Bay Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including a cancer center, a cardiology program, and surgical services. The distance from Bangor necessitates travel, but it provides an alternative for those seeking specific treatments or a change of environment.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility to healthcare is a crucial factor in the overall health score. The Bangor area benefits from a relatively good transportation infrastructure. Public transportation options, including buses and local taxi services, are available, though access to these services may be limited in more rural areas surrounding Bangor. The proximity of Bangor International Airport (BGR) allows for easy access to air ambulance services and facilitates travel for patients seeking specialized care outside the immediate region.

**Rural Considerations**

The area surrounding Bangor includes several rural communities. Access to healthcare in these areas can be more challenging. **The availability of primary care physicians and specialists in rural areas is often limited, potentially leading to longer travel times for appointments and emergency care.** Telehealth services play a crucial role in bridging this gap, allowing residents in rural areas to access care remotely.

**Mental Health Services**

Mental health services are a vital component of overall health. Both EMMC and St. Joseph Hospital offer behavioral health services, including inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. **The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a key factor in assessing the overall health score.** The region, like many others, faces challenges in meeting the demand for mental health services, particularly in rural areas.

**Preventative Care and Public Health**

Preventative care and public health initiatives significantly impact the overall health of a community. The hospitals in the area offer various preventative services, including screenings, vaccinations, and health education programs. **Public health initiatives, such as those related to chronic disease management and infectious disease control, contribute to the overall health score.** Collaboration between hospitals, public health agencies, and community organizations is essential for promoting preventative care and improving public health outcomes.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for the area surrounding ZIP code 04413 is influenced by several factors. EMMC, as the primary tertiary care center, plays a central role. The hospital's 3-star CMS rating, combined with its comprehensive services, including a Level II Trauma Center and specialized centers, provides a solid foundation for healthcare in the region. However, the average ED wait times, while generally within national averages, can be a concern.

St. Joseph Hospital's 4-star CMS rating and focus on patient-centered care add to the positive assessment. The availability of alternative care options, such as Penobscot Bay Medical Center, further enhances the overall health score.

The integration of telehealth services across multiple specialties is a significant positive, particularly for residents in rural areas. However, the challenges related to access to mental health services and the limited availability of primary care physicians in some rural areas are areas that need improvement.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near Bangor, Maine (ZIP code 04413) offers a mix of strengths and areas for improvement. The presence of a flagship hospital with a comprehensive range of services, coupled with the availability of alternative care options and the increasing adoption of telehealth, contribute to a generally positive overall health score. However, addressing the challenges related to mental health services, rural access, and ED wait times will be crucial for further improving the health and well-being of the community. Continuous monitoring of key metrics, such as CMS ratings, ED wait times, and telehealth utilization rates, is essential to track progress and identify areas where further investment and improvement are needed.