07463, Waldwick, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07463, Waldwick, New Jersey is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Wayne, NJ (ZIP Code 07463)

Choosing a hospital is a critical decision, and for residents of Wayne, NJ (ZIP code 07463), access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the major hospitals in the vicinity, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower informed healthcare choices.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The healthcare landscape near Wayne is dominated by several prominent institutions, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Proximity is a significant factor, impacting travel time during emergencies and facilitating regular appointments. The primary hospitals serving the 07463 ZIP code include St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, Chilton Medical Center in Pompton Plains, and Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. These hospitals are the primary focus of this review.

**St. Joseph's University Medical Center, Paterson (Not-for-Profit)**

St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, located in Paterson, is a major regional medical center. It’s a teaching hospital and offers a wide range of services. As of the latest available data, St. Joseph's holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest rating, it reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance at St. Joseph's**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, data suggests that St. Joseph's ER wait times can vary. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for current estimates. The ER sees a high volume of patients, reflecting its role as a Level II Trauma Center. This designation means they can handle serious injuries and complex medical emergencies.

**Specialty Centers at St. Joseph's**

St. Joseph's boasts several specialized centers. The hospital has a comprehensive heart institute, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. They also have a well-regarded cancer center, providing radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. Additionally, St. Joseph's has a robust neuroscience institute, focusing on neurological disorders and stroke care. The hospital’s maternal and child health services are also significant, including a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

**Telehealth at St. Joseph's**

Telehealth services are increasingly important. St. Joseph's has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities. The specific availability of telehealth services varies by specialty and insurance coverage. It’s recommended to inquire directly with the hospital or individual physician's office for details.

**Chilton Medical Center, Pompton Plains (For-Profit)**

Chilton Medical Center, located in Pompton Plains, is another key player in the region. It is part of Atlantic Health System. Chilton consistently receives high marks for patient satisfaction. The hospital currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room Performance at Chilton**

Chilton's ER generally experiences shorter wait times compared to larger, higher-volume hospitals. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking prompt medical attention. However, wait times can still fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers at Chilton**

Chilton is known for its focus on specific specialties. The hospital has a strong reputation for orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine. They also offer comprehensive surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures. Chilton's women's health services are also well-regarded, with a focus on obstetrics and gynecology.

**Telehealth at Chilton**

Chilton, as part of Atlantic Health System, has a well-developed telehealth program. They offer a range of virtual visits, including primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services. The Atlantic Health System platform provides easy access to telehealth appointments and remote monitoring tools.

**Valley Hospital, Ridgewood (Not-for-Profit)**

Valley Hospital, located in Ridgewood, is a highly respected hospital in the region. It is known for its excellent patient care and advanced medical technology. Valley Hospital consistently receives a 5-star rating from CMS, reflecting its high performance across various quality metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance at Valley**

Valley Hospital's ER generally has relatively short wait times, reflecting efficient patient flow. However, like all hospitals, wait times can vary. Real-time wait time information is typically available on the hospital's website.

**Specialty Centers at Valley**

Valley Hospital boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. The hospital is particularly strong in cardiology, offering advanced cardiac procedures and treatments. They also have a renowned cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer care. Valley’s orthopedic services are also highly regarded. Their women’s health services are also extensive.

**Telehealth at Valley**

Valley Hospital has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits for various specialties. They provide easy access to virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. Details on specific telehealth services are available on their website.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Big Three**

While St. Joseph's, Chilton, and Valley are the primary hospitals, other healthcare providers in the area contribute to the overall health ecosystem. This includes urgent care centers, specialized clinics, and outpatient facilities. These facilities can provide convenient access to non-emergency medical care and specialized services.

**Overall Health Score: Comparative Analysis**

Evaluating the hospitals based on the available data, a comparative analysis emerges. Valley Hospital, with its 5-star CMS rating, generally represents the highest level of quality and patient satisfaction. Chilton Medical Center, with its 4-star rating and focus on specific specialties, provides a strong alternative, particularly for orthopedic and women's health needs. St. Joseph's University Medical Center, while holding a 3-star rating, serves a vital role as a Level II Trauma Center and offers a comprehensive range of services.

**Factors to Consider in Your Choice**

Several factors should influence your choice of hospital. These include:

* **Specific Medical Needs:** If you have a specific medical condition, research which hospital has the best specialists and services for your needs.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** If you anticipate needing emergency care, consider the ER wait times at each hospital.
* **Proximity:** Consider the travel time to each hospital, especially in an emergency.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Research patient reviews and satisfaction scores to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Telehealth Availability:** If you prefer virtual consultations, check the telehealth offerings of each hospital.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating the major hospitals near Wayne, NJ (07463). By considering CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, residents can make informed choices that best meet their individual healthcare needs. It's recommended to supplement this information with personal research, consultations with your primary care physician, and consideration of your individual health requirements. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, so it is always best to check with the hospitals directly for the most up-to-date information.