04787, Westfield, Maine Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 04787, Westfield, Maine is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Presque Isle, Maine (ZIP Code 04787)

The Aroostook County region of Maine, centered around Presque Isle (ZIP Code 04787), presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents face challenges common to rural areas: geographic isolation, an aging population, and limited access to specialized services. This review examines the available healthcare options, focusing on key metrics to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment for hospitals in the area.

**The Primary Player: Northern Light AR Gould Hospital**

Northern Light AR Gould Hospital in Presque Isle is the dominant healthcare provider for the region. As the primary hospital serving ZIP Code 04787, its performance significantly impacts the overall health score. AR Gould is a 100-bed acute care facility offering a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, obstetrics, and a variety of specialty clinics.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

AR Gould Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on publicly reported data, reflects the hospital's performance across several categories, including patient safety, mortality, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's important to note that CMS ratings are just one data point.

**Emergency Room (ER) Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Data on AR Gould's ER wait times fluctuates. While specific, real-time wait times are best obtained directly from the hospital or through online resources like the Healthgrades website, the hospital generally strives to meet the needs of the community.

**Specialty Services and Centers:**

AR Gould offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and behavioral health. The hospital has a cancer care center, providing comprehensive cancer treatment and support services. The hospital also has a dedicated birthing center.

**Telehealth Initiatives:**

Recognizing the challenges of rural healthcare, AR Gould has invested in telehealth capabilities. Telehealth allows patients to access specialist consultations and follow-up care remotely, reducing the need for travel. The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in areas like behavioral health and chronic disease management. These initiatives are essential for improving access to care for residents in the region.

**Other Considerations for AR Gould:**

AR Gould's location in Presque Isle makes it relatively accessible for residents of the immediate area. However, patients in more remote parts of Aroostook County may face longer travel times. The hospital's commitment to community outreach and health education programs is a positive factor, contributing to preventative care and overall community health.

**Access to Specialized Care: The Role of Out-of-Region Hospitals**

Due to the limitations of a smaller, rural hospital, residents of ZIP Code 04787 may need to travel for specialized care. This impacts the overall health score, as access to certain services is not readily available locally.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center (Bangor):**

Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC), located in Bangor (approximately a 3-hour drive), serves as a regional referral center. EMMC offers a broader range of specialized services than AR Gould, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and trauma services. EMMC is a larger hospital with a 4-star CMS rating. However, the distance presents a significant barrier to access for residents of Presque Isle and surrounding areas.

**St. Joseph Hospital (Bangor):**

St. Joseph Hospital, also in Bangor, provides another option for specialized care. St. Joseph is a smaller hospital than EMMC, but offers a variety of services. St. Joseph also has a 4-star CMS rating.

**Travel Times and Logistics:**

The travel times to Bangor hospitals are a significant factor. Long distances can delay access to care, especially in emergency situations. Weather conditions, common in northern Maine, can further complicate travel.

**The Impact of Distance:**

The need to travel for specialized care impacts the overall health score. It can lead to delayed treatment, increased costs (travel, lodging), and inconvenience for patients and their families. The availability of transportation assistance programs and support services is crucial for mitigating these challenges.

**Other Healthcare Providers in the Area**

Beyond the hospitals, the overall health score is affected by the availability of other healthcare providers.

**Primary Care Physicians and Clinics:**

The availability of primary care physicians and clinics is crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. The Presque Isle area has a network of primary care providers, including family medicine practices and internal medicine specialists. The adequacy of this network is a key factor in the overall health score.

**Specialty Clinics:**

The presence of specialty clinics, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, reduces the need for patients to travel out of the area for specialized care. The availability of these clinics in Presque Isle and surrounding communities positively impacts the overall health score.

**Mental Health Services:**

Mental health services are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a key factor in the overall health score. The region faces challenges in this area, with potential shortages of mental health professionals.

**Dental Care:**

Access to dental care is also an important factor. The availability of dentists and dental hygienists in the Presque Isle area is a factor in the overall health score.

**Public Health Initiatives:**

Public health initiatives, such as vaccination programs, health education campaigns, and disease prevention programs, contribute to the overall health of the community. The effectiveness of these initiatives is a factor in the overall health score.

**Community Resources and Support Services:**

The availability of community resources and support services, such as home healthcare, hospice care, and support groups, is crucial for patients and their families. These resources play a vital role in improving the quality of life and supporting individuals throughout their healthcare journey.

**Overall Health Score Assessment for ZIP Code 04787:**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP Code 04787 is complex, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this rural region.

**Strengths:**

* **Primary Hospital (AR Gould):** Provides essential acute care services and is the cornerstone of local healthcare.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** Enhances access to specialist consultations and follow-up care.
* **Community Focus:** AR Gould's commitment to community outreach and health education is a positive factor.
* **Availability of Primary Care:** The presence of primary care physicians and clinics is a strength.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Limited Specialized Services:** Residents often need to travel long distances for specialized care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Fluctuating ER wait times can impact access to timely care.
* **CMS Rating:** The 3-star CMS rating for AR Gould suggests areas for improvement.
* **Geographic Isolation:** Long travel times and weather conditions present challenges.
* **Potential Shortages:** Mental health providers and specialists may be limited.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand Telehealth:** Further expand telehealth offerings, particularly in areas like mental health and chronic disease management.
* **Improve ER Efficiency:** Implement strategies to reduce ER wait times.
* **Recruit Specialists:** Actively recruit specialists to address the needs of the aging population.
* **Strengthen Partnerships:** Foster collaborations with out-of-region hospitals to improve access to specialized care.
* **Invest in Community Health Programs:** Continue to invest in community health programs, including preventative care and health education.
* **Address Mental Health Needs:** Increase access to mental health services and support.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP Code 04787 is moderate. While AR Gould Hospital provides essential services, the region faces challenges related to access to specialized care, geographic isolation, and potential shortages of healthcare professionals. Continuous efforts to improve access, expand telehealth capabilities, and strengthen community health programs are crucial for enhancing the overall health and well-being of the residents of Aroostook County. The ongoing efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies are vital to improving the overall health score and ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.