07094, Secaucus, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07094, Secaucus, New Jersey is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 07094 (Summit, NJ)

Navigating healthcare can feel like a complex maze. For residents of Summit, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07094), access to quality medical care is a critical consideration. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of hospitals in the immediate vicinity, factoring in key metrics such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview to aid in informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The primary hospital serving Summit is **Overlook Medical Center**, part of Atlantic Health System. Other significant players in the region include **Morristown Medical Center**, also part of Atlantic Health System, and **Saint Barnabas Medical Center**, affiliated with RWJBarnabas Health. Proximity is a key factor, and these institutions are all within a reasonable driving distance, typically under 30 minutes, making them accessible for emergency situations and routine appointments.

**Overlook Medical Center: The Core Provider**

Overlook Medical Center, located directly in Summit, is the most immediate healthcare resource for 07094 residents. This is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide array of services. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Overlook has earned a **4-star rating**. This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally good performance across various quality and safety measures.

**Emergency Department Performance:** ER wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and capacity. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's important to consult resources like the hospital's website or third-party aggregators (e.g., Google, Healthgrades) for the most up-to-date information. Generally, Overlook's ER is known to be busy, reflecting its role as a primary regional provider.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Overlook boasts a robust selection of specialty centers. The hospital is particularly recognized for its **Carol G. Simon Cancer Center**, offering comprehensive cancer treatment and support services. It also has a strong cardiac program, a well-regarded orthopedic department, and a dedicated neuroscience institute. The hospital's commitment to women's health is evident in its maternity services and specialized programs.

**Telehealth Integration:** Overlook Medical Center has embraced telehealth to enhance patient access and convenience. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients needing routine check-ups or consultations without the need for in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services is constantly evolving, so it's advisable to check the hospital's website for the most current offerings.

**Morristown Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Morristown Medical Center, located approximately 15-20 minutes from Summit, is another major healthcare provider. It is a larger hospital than Overlook, and it consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the state and nationally. Morristown Medical Center currently holds a **5-star rating from CMS**, indicating superior performance across a range of quality metrics.

**Emergency Department:** Morristown Medical Center's ER typically experiences high patient volumes, reflecting its regional prominence. While wait times can vary, it's essential to check real-time data sources for the most accurate information.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Morristown Medical Center is renowned for its advanced specialty centers. It has a highly regarded heart center, a comprehensive cancer center, and a robust neuroscience program. The hospital also offers specialized services in areas such as transplant medicine and advanced surgical procedures. Its level I trauma center is equipped to handle the most critical emergencies.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Morristown Medical Center has invested significantly in telehealth infrastructure. They provide a wide range of virtual care options, including virtual urgent care, specialist consultations, and remote monitoring programs. This commitment to telehealth enhances patient convenience and access to care.

**Saint Barnabas Medical Center: A Diverse Alternative**

Saint Barnabas Medical Center, located in Livingston, NJ, is approximately a 20-25 minute drive from Summit. It is part of the RWJBarnabas Health network, a large and well-established healthcare system. Saint Barnabas currently holds a **4-star rating from CMS**.

**Emergency Department:** The ER at Saint Barnabas is a busy facility, serving a broad patient population. Checking real-time wait times is crucial for planning a visit.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Saint Barnabas offers a diverse range of specialty services. It's known for its cardiac care, oncology programs, and comprehensive women's health services. The hospital also has specialized centers for orthopedics, neurosurgery, and rehabilitation.

**Telehealth Integration:** Saint Barnabas Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual visits for various specialties. The scope of these offerings is continuously expanding, so it's important to consult their website for the most up-to-date information.

**Comparing the Options: A Summary**

Choosing the "best" hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. **Overlook Medical Center** provides convenient access for Summit residents and offers a broad range of services. **Morristown Medical Center**, with its 5-star rating, is a regional leader known for its advanced specialty centers. **Saint Barnabas Medical Center** offers a diverse set of services and is a valuable option within the broader healthcare landscape.

**Additional Considerations:**

* **Physician Networks:** Consider your insurance plan and the availability of in-network physicians at each hospital.
* **Patient Reviews:** Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide insights into patient experiences.
* **Specific Needs:** If you have a specific medical condition, research the specialized programs and expertise offered by each hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify your insurance coverage for each hospital and its services.
* **Accessibility:** Consider factors like parking, public transportation, and ease of access to the hospital.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery. All three hospitals discussed in this review offer telehealth services, allowing patients to access care remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and consultations. The availability of telehealth services is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to check the hospital's website for the most current offerings.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, here’s a general assessment:

* **Overlook Medical Center:** A solid, convenient option with a good range of services and a 4-star CMS rating. Excellent for local access and general medical needs.
* **Morristown Medical Center:** A top-tier hospital with a 5-star CMS rating, offering advanced specialty care and a robust telehealth program. A strong choice for complex medical needs.
* **Saint Barnabas Medical Center:** A comprehensive hospital with a 4-star CMS rating, providing a diverse range of services and a valuable alternative within the region.

**Final Thoughts:**

Residents of 07094 have access to a strong network of hospitals. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this review, including CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the hospital that best suits their individual circumstances. Remember to always consult with your primary care physician and conduct thorough research before making any healthcare decisions. Real-time data, such as ER wait times, is dynamic and should be verified directly with the hospitals or reliable third-party sources.