04955, New Sharon, Maine Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 04955, New Sharon, Maine is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 04955

The picturesque region surrounding ZIP code 04955, encompassing the towns of Skowhegan and surrounding communities in central Maine, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents have access to a network of hospitals and clinics, each offering a distinct set of services and capabilities. This review assesses the overall health score of the primary hospital options, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other crucial metrics.

**Flagship Hospital: Redington-Fairview General Hospital (Skowhegan)**

Redington-Fairview General Hospital (RFGH) in Skowhegan serves as the primary healthcare hub for the immediate area. It's a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special funding and has specific requirements, including a limited number of beds. RFGH plays a vital role in providing essential services to the community.

**CMS Star Rating:** As of the latest available data, RFGH has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, based on various performance measures. The 3-star rating indicates that RFGH performs at a level that is considered average compared to other hospitals nationwide.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and responsiveness. While specific, constantly updated ER wait time data is difficult to obtain in real-time, it is advisable to check the hospital's website or a third-party aggregator for current estimates. RFGH’s ER sees a steady flow of patients, and wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** RFGH offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital has a dedicated surgical suite and provides a variety of diagnostic imaging services, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. RFGH also has a labor and delivery unit, offering comprehensive maternity care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like those served by RFGH. The hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings to provide remote consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly valuable for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations. Telehealth services can include virtual visits with specialists, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and mental health support.

**Other Considerations for RFGH:** RFGH is committed to community outreach and education. The hospital offers various health education programs and screenings. It also collaborates with local organizations to address community health needs. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured by surveys, provide valuable insights into the patient experience. These scores are available on the hospital's website and through CMS.

**Other Nearby Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities**

While RFGH is the primary hospital, residents of the 04955 area have access to other healthcare facilities, including smaller hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices.

**Franklin Memorial Hospital (Farmington):** Located approximately 30 miles west of Skowhegan, Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington is a larger facility and offers a broader range of services. It is a critical access hospital. Franklin Memorial Hospital’s CMS star rating is important to consider when evaluating the overall healthcare options in the region. The hospital has specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and a comprehensive surgical suite.

**MaineGeneral Medical Center (Augusta):** Approximately 45 miles southeast of Skowhegan, MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta provides advanced medical care and specialized services. It is a larger hospital with a Level II trauma center. MaineGeneral Medical Center offers a wide range of specialty services, including cardiology, neurology, and oncology. It is a major referral center for the region.

**Other Clinics and Practices:** Numerous smaller clinics and physician practices are located in and around the 04955 ZIP code. These facilities provide primary care, specialized medical services, and urgent care options. The availability of these clinics enhances access to healthcare for residents.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care**

ER wait times are a significant factor in evaluating healthcare access. The average ER wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the volume of patients. It is advisable to check the hospital's website or a third-party aggregator for current estimates. The availability of urgent care centers and walk-in clinics can also help to alleviate pressure on hospital ERs.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The availability of specialty centers and services is another key factor in assessing the overall health score. Hospitals in the area offer a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and women's health. The presence of these centers ensures that residents have access to specialized medical care close to home.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access healthcare remotely, which can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and improve patient outcomes. Hospitals and clinics in the area have been expanding their telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and mental health support.

**Community Health and Wellness**

The overall health score is also influenced by community health initiatives. Hospitals and healthcare providers in the area are involved in community outreach programs, health education, and screenings. These initiatives help to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent disease.

**Overall Assessment and Recommendations**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 04955 offers a mix of services and capabilities. RFGH serves as the primary hospital and provides essential services to the community. The 3-star CMS rating indicates an average level of performance. Franklin Memorial Hospital and MaineGeneral Medical Center offer a wider range of services and are located within a reasonable driving distance. Residents also have access to numerous clinics and physician practices.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize preventative care:** Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations are crucial for maintaining good health.
* **Utilize telehealth services:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Research hospital ratings and reviews:** Consider CMS star ratings and patient reviews when choosing a healthcare provider.
* **Consider travel time:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital, especially in emergency situations.
* **Stay informed:** Keep up-to-date on the latest healthcare developments and community health initiatives.

The healthcare options available to residents near ZIP code 04955 provide a foundation for quality care. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each facility and prioritizing preventative care, residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.