04920, Bingham, Maine Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 04920, Bingham, Maine is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Farmington, Maine (ZIP Code 04920)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Farmington, Maine (ZIP Code 04920), considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. This score aims to offer a clearer picture for residents seeking the best options for their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The area surrounding Farmington, Maine, is primarily served by a network of hospitals and healthcare facilities. Proximity and access to specialized care are key considerations for residents. This review focuses on the most relevant hospitals, evaluating their performance based on publicly available data.

**Franklin Memorial Hospital (Farmington, ME):**

Franklin Memorial Hospital (FMH), located directly within the 04920 ZIP code, is a cornerstone of healthcare in the area. As a critical access hospital, FMH provides essential services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and a range of specialty clinics.

**CMS Star Rating:** FMH currently does not have a CMS star rating. This is typical for critical access hospitals, which are evaluated differently than larger facilities.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, FMH generally strives to maintain wait times that are competitive within the region. Patients should be aware that wait times can vary depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions.

**Specialty Centers:** FMH offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They are also connected to larger healthcare networks to provide additional access to specialists.

**Telehealth Stats:** Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially in rural areas. FMH has expanded its telehealth capabilities to provide access to specialists and follow-up care, reducing the need for travel. Specific utilization rates are not publicly available.

**Overall Assessment of Franklin Memorial Hospital:** FMH serves as a vital access point for healthcare in the Farmington area. While lacking a CMS star rating, its commitment to providing essential services and expanding telehealth options makes it a key healthcare provider for the community.

**Central Maine Medical Center (Lewiston, ME):**

Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC), located approximately an hour’s drive from Farmington, is a larger, more comprehensive hospital, offering a broader range of specialized services.

**CMS Star Rating:** CMMC has a CMS star rating of 3 stars as of the latest available data. This rating reflects overall performance based on various quality metrics.

**ER Wait Times:** CMMC's ER wait times are generally longer than those at FMH, reflecting the higher volume of patients. However, the hospital strives to provide timely care and triage patients effectively.

**Specialty Centers:** CMMC boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and advanced surgical services. They also have a robust women’s health center.

**Telehealth Stats:** CMMC has invested heavily in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. Specific data on utilization rates are available, reflecting a growing trend in telehealth adoption.

**Overall Assessment of Central Maine Medical Center:** CMMC offers a wider range of services and a higher level of specialization compared to FMH. While the drive time is a factor, patients needing specialized care may find CMMC a preferred choice. The 3-star CMS rating provides a benchmark for quality comparison.

**Maine Medical Center (Portland, ME):**

Maine Medical Center (MMC), located approximately an hour and a half from Farmington, is the largest hospital in the state and a major referral center.

**CMS Star Rating:** MMC has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. This indicates a high level of quality and performance.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at MMC can be significant due to the high patient volume and the complexity of cases. However, the hospital is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies.

**Specialty Centers:** MMC is a regional leader in specialized care, with centers of excellence in areas like cardiology, oncology, neurosurgery, and trauma. It is a major teaching hospital and a hub for medical research.

**Telehealth Stats:** MMC has a well-developed telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists across a wide geographic area. Specific utilization rates are available.

**Overall Assessment of Maine Medical Center:** MMC provides access to the highest levels of specialized care in the region. While the distance is a consideration, it is a critical resource for complex medical needs. The 4-star CMS rating reflects its commitment to quality.

**Other Considerations:**

**Accessibility and Travel Time:** Travel time is a significant factor in accessing healthcare in rural areas. Residents of Farmington should consider the distance to each hospital and the availability of transportation.

**Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a crucial role in healthcare access. Patients should confirm that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and providers they choose.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Online platforms and hospital websites often provide this information.

**Community Health Needs Assessments:** Local health departments and hospitals conduct community health needs assessments to identify health priorities and address unmet needs. These assessments can provide valuable context for understanding the healthcare landscape.

**Comparing the Options:**

Choosing the "best" hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances.

* **For immediate, basic care:** Franklin Memorial Hospital is the closest and most convenient option.
* **For a broader range of services and some specialization:** Central Maine Medical Center is a good choice.
* **For complex medical needs and the highest level of specialization:** Maine Medical Center is the regional leader.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for residents in rural areas. It provides access to specialists, follow-up care, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for travel. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when seeking care.

**The Overall Health Score:**

Given the limitations of available data and the individual nature of healthcare needs, assigning a single "Overall Health Score" is challenging. However, based on the factors discussed, the following is a general assessment:

* **Franklin Memorial Hospital:** A solid choice for basic and emergency care, offering convenient access.
* **Central Maine Medical Center:** A good option for a wider range of services and specialized care, with a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Maine Medical Center:** The regional leader for specialized care, with a 4-star CMS rating.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 04920 ZIP code have access to a network of hospitals and healthcare facilities, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The choice of the "best" hospital depends on individual needs, insurance coverage, and the complexity of the medical condition. By considering the factors discussed in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the care they need. Regular updates to this information are recommended, as healthcare landscapes and data change rapidly. Consulting with primary care physicians and specialists is crucial for personalized guidance.