04634, Franklin, Maine Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 04634, Franklin, Maine is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 04634 (Ellsworth, Maine)

The pursuit of quality healthcare is a universal concern, and for residents of Ellsworth, Maine (ZIP code 04634), understanding the landscape of available medical facilities is paramount. This review delves into the health and performance of hospitals in the vicinity, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on a range of factors, from CMS star ratings to ER wait times and specialized services. This analysis aims to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options available, empowering informed decisions for residents.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus of this review centers on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Ellsworth, Maine. This includes facilities in Ellsworth itself, as well as those in surrounding towns and cities that serve the region. The availability of specialized care, accessibility of services, and overall patient experience are key considerations.

**Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital (Ellsworth, ME): A Central Hub**

Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital, located directly in Ellsworth, is the most immediate and accessible healthcare provider for residents of the 04634 ZIP code. As a community hospital, it offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient surgery, diagnostic imaging, and a variety of specialty clinics.

**CMS Star Rating:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality metrics. Maine Coast Hospital currently holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - this requires real-time data lookup]. This rating reflects the hospital's performance in areas such as patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. It's crucial to note that these ratings are dynamic and can change over time.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a critical factor for many patients. Maine Coast Hospital's ER wait times are typically [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time - this requires real-time data lookup]. This data is often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources like ProPublica's Hospital Compare. Shorter wait times generally indicate more efficient ER operations.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Maine Coast Hospital provides a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. [Provide Specific Details on Key Specialty Services - e.g., "The hospital's cardiology department offers advanced cardiac imaging and interventional procedures. The oncology center provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services."]. The availability of these specialized services within the community reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for care.

**Telehealth Integration:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Maine Coast Hospital offers telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with providers remotely for certain appointments and follow-up care. [Provide Specific Details on Telehealth Services - e.g., "Telehealth options include virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists in areas like mental health and dermatology."]. This can improve access to care and reduce travel burdens.

**Other Considerations:**

The hospital's commitment to patient safety is a vital component of its overall health score. [Provide Specific Information on Patient Safety Initiatives - e.g., "Maine Coast Hospital actively participates in programs to reduce hospital-acquired infections and improve medication safety."]. Additionally, the hospital's community outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations contribute to its overall impact on the health of the population.

**Penobscot Bay Medical Center (Rockport, ME): A Regional Resource**

While further afield, Penobscot Bay Medical Center in Rockport, Maine, is a significant regional hospital that serves residents of the 04634 area. This facility offers a broader range of specialized services and may be a preferred choice for certain complex medical needs.

**CMS Star Rating:** Penobscot Bay Medical Center currently holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - this requires real-time data lookup]. This rating provides a benchmark for its overall quality of care.

**Emergency Room Performance:** The ER wait times at Penobscot Bay Medical Center are typically [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time - this requires real-time data lookup]. The longer travel time to Rockport should be factored into any emergency care decisions.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Penobscot Bay Medical Center boasts a more extensive array of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and advanced surgical capabilities. [Provide Specific Details on Key Specialty Services - e.g., "The hospital's cancer center offers a full spectrum of cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The heart and vascular institute provides advanced cardiac care, including open-heart surgery."].

**Telehealth Integration:** Penobscot Bay Medical Center also utilizes telehealth to extend its reach and improve patient access. [Provide Specific Details on Telehealth Services - e.g., "Telehealth options include virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions."].

**Other Considerations:** The hospital's commitment to research and innovation is another factor to consider. [Provide Specific Information on Research and Innovation - e.g., "Penobscot Bay Medical Center is involved in clinical trials and research initiatives to advance medical knowledge and improve patient outcomes."].

**Other Hospitals to Consider (Depending on Availability):**

Depending on the specific healthcare needs and insurance coverage, residents of 04634 may also consider other hospitals in the region, such as [List Other Relevant Hospitals - e.g., "Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor" or "St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor"]. Researching these facilities' services, CMS ratings, and ER wait times is crucial.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center (Bangor, ME): A Tertiary Care Center**

Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor is a tertiary care center, offering a wide range of specialized services, including advanced surgical procedures, trauma care, and specialized medical treatments.

**CMS Star Rating:** EMMC currently holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - this requires real-time data lookup]. As a larger, tertiary care center, its performance metrics may differ from those of community hospitals.

**Emergency Room Performance:** EMMC's ER wait times are typically [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time - this requires real-time data lookup]. Given the hospital's role as a regional referral center, wait times may be longer than at smaller facilities.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** EMMC offers a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive cancer center, and specialized cardiology and neurology services. [Provide Specific Details on Key Specialty Services - e.g., "EMMC's trauma center provides immediate care for critically injured patients. The cancer center offers advanced cancer treatments, including radiation therapy and clinical trials."].

**Telehealth Integration:** EMMC has a robust telehealth program. [Provide Specific Details on Telehealth Services - e.g., "EMMC offers telehealth consultations with specialists across various disciplines, including cardiology, neurology, and mental health."].

**Other Considerations:** EMMC's role as a teaching hospital and its involvement in medical research are important factors. [Provide Specific Information on Teaching and Research - e.g., "EMMC is affiliated with the University of Maine and provides training for medical students and residents. The hospital is actively involved in clinical research to improve patient care."].

**St. Joseph Hospital (Bangor, ME): A Community-Focused Option**

St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor provides a range of healthcare services with a focus on community needs.

**CMS Star Rating:** St. Joseph Hospital currently holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - this requires real-time data lookup].

**Emergency Room Performance:** The ER wait times at St. Joseph Hospital are typically [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time - this requires real-time data lookup].

**Specialty Centers and Services:** St. Joseph Hospital offers various specialty services. [Provide Specific Details on Key Specialty Services - e.g., "The hospital provides services in areas such as cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health."].

**Telehealth Integration:** St. Joseph Hospital utilizes telehealth. [Provide Specific Details on Telehealth Services - e.g., "Telehealth options may include virtual consultations and remote monitoring."].

**Other Considerations:** The hospital's commitment to patient experience and its community outreach programs are important aspects.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 04634 is not a single number but rather a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The best choice for an individual will depend on their specific healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences.

* **Accessibility:** The proximity of Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital makes it a convenient option for many residents.
* **Specialty Care:** Penobscot Bay Medical Center and Eastern Maine Medical Center offer a wider range of specialized services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter ER wait times are generally desirable, but the urgency of the situation should always be the primary factor.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a valuable benchmark for overall quality, but they should be considered alongside other factors.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.

**Recommendations:**

Residents of 04634 should research their specific healthcare needs and preferences. Consider the following:

* **Primary Care Physician:** Establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can provide ongoing care and referrals to specialists.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify which hospitals and specialists are covered by your insurance plan.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Know the location of the nearest hospital and understand the procedures for accessing emergency care.
* **Proactive Health Management:** Take steps to maintain your health and prevent illness through regular checkups, healthy lifestyle choices, and preventive screenings.
* **Utilize Online Resources:** Utilize hospital websites, ProPublica's Hospital Compare, and other online resources to gather information and compare healthcare options.

By carefully considering these factors, residents of Ellsworth, Maine, can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the best possible care for their needs. This review serves as a starting point for that process, empowering individuals to navigate the healthcare landscape with greater confidence.