07014, Clifton, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07014, Clifton, New Jersey is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 07014 (Bloomfield, NJ)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Bloomfield, NJ (ZIP code 07014) area, focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions. We'll examine flagship hospitals, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This is not a definitive ranking, but a comprehensive overview based on publicly available data.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The primary hospitals serving 07014 residents are concentrated in the surrounding towns, offering a range of services. Proximity is a crucial factor, impacting accessibility, especially during emergencies. The hospitals considered here are those most readily accessible to residents of Bloomfield.

**Clara Maass Medical Center (Belleville, NJ)**

Clara Maass Medical Center, located in Belleville, NJ, is a prominent institution. It’s a part of the RWJBarnabas Health system, a large network. Clara Maass boasts a comprehensive range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments.

**CMS Star Rating:** Clara Maass Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical concern. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, data indicates that Clara Maass generally has wait times that are in line with the national average. It's advisable to check the hospital's website or use online tools for the most up-to-date information before seeking care.

**Specialty Centers:** Clara Maass features several specialty centers. The hospital has a well-regarded cardiac care program, a cancer center offering comprehensive oncology services, and a dedicated women's health center. They also have a robust surgical program.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important. Clara Maass offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments for various specialties. This allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, providing convenience and potentially reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary, so it’s important to confirm offerings with the hospital directly.

**Saint Michael's Medical Center (Newark, NJ)**

Saint Michael's Medical Center, located in Newark, NJ, is another key hospital serving the area. It's a Catholic hospital, affiliated with the Prime Healthcare system.

**CMS Star Rating:** Saint Michael's Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a key consideration. Saint Michael's Medical Center's ER wait times can fluctuate, but generally, they align with the national average. As with all hospitals, checking real-time wait times through their website or other online resources is recommended.

**Specialty Centers:** Saint Michael's has a range of specialty centers. They have a strong focus on cardiology, offering advanced cardiac care. They also provide services in areas like orthopedics and gastroenterology.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Saint Michael's Medical Center offers telehealth services. These services enable patients to access care remotely, which can be convenient for follow-up appointments and certain consultations. It's recommended to confirm the specific telehealth options and availability directly with the hospital.

**Hackensack University Medical Center (Hackensack, NJ)**

While slightly further afield, Hackensack University Medical Center, part of the Hackensack Meridian Health network, is a major regional medical center that serves the area.

**CMS Star Rating:** Hackensack University Medical Center consistently earns high marks, with a 5-star rating from CMS. This signifies exceptional performance across a broad range of quality metrics.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** Hackensack University Medical Center typically has efficient ER operations. While wait times can vary, the hospital is known for its efforts to minimize wait times and provide timely care. Checking the hospital's website or other online tools for the most up-to-date information is always a good idea.

**Specialty Centers:** Hackensack University Medical Center boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including the John Theurer Cancer Center, a renowned cancer treatment facility. They also have advanced programs in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital is a regional leader in many specialties.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Hackensack University Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes. The hospital's telehealth offerings are extensive, and details can be found on their website.

**Mountainside Medical Center (Montclair, NJ)**

Mountainside Medical Center, located in Montclair, NJ, is another important hospital in the area. It is part of the Atlantic Health System.

**CMS Star Rating:** Mountainside Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a key consideration. Mountainside Medical Center's ER wait times can fluctuate. Checking real-time wait times through their website or other online resources is recommended.

**Specialty Centers:** Mountainside has a range of specialty centers. They have a focus on women's health, with a dedicated women's center. They also provide services in areas like orthopedics and cardiology.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Mountainside Medical Center offers telehealth services. These services enable patients to access care remotely, which can be convenient for follow-up appointments and certain consultations. It's recommended to confirm the specific telehealth options and availability directly with the hospital.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Big Names**

Beyond the major hospitals, residents may also consider smaller facilities and urgent care centers for less critical needs. These can provide convenient options for immediate care, but it's important to be aware of their limitations and when a visit to a full-service hospital is necessary.

**Access to Specialists:** The availability of specialists is a critical factor in healthcare. The hospitals in the area offer a broad range of specialists, but access can vary depending on the specific needs. Patients with complex medical conditions may need to travel to a hospital with a particular specialty.

**Patient Experience:** Patient experience is increasingly important. Factors like communication with doctors, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall level of care contribute to the patient experience. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage is a key consideration. It's essential to verify that the hospital and its providers are in-network with your insurance plan. This will help minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The hospitals near 07014 offer a diverse range of healthcare services. Hackensack University Medical Center stands out with its 5-star CMS rating and comprehensive specialty centers. Clara Maass Medical Center, Saint Michael's Medical Center, and Mountainside Medical Center offer solid services and are more geographically accessible. ER wait times and the availability of specific specialists can vary, so it's important to research each hospital based on individual needs. Telehealth capabilities are becoming increasingly prevalent, offering convenient access to care. Ultimately, the "best" hospital depends on individual healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences. Residents are encouraged to research each hospital and consider their specific requirements when making healthcare decisions. This review provides a starting point for that research.