07505, Paterson, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07505, Paterson, New Jersey is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Paterson, NJ (07505)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Paterson, NJ (ZIP code 07505), focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information, compiled from publicly available data and hospital websites, aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare options available to residents.

**The Landscape: Major Players and Key Considerations**

The area surrounding Paterson, NJ, is served by a mix of large, established hospitals and smaller facilities. Proximity is a major factor for residents, influencing access to care, especially during emergencies. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like traffic patterns common to the region.

**St. Joseph's University Medical Center (Paterson, NJ): A Flagship Institution**

St. Joseph's University Medical Center (SJUMC) is a major player in the Paterson healthcare scene. It’s a large, teaching hospital and a Level II Trauma Center, crucial for handling serious injuries and illnesses. SJUMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's important to remember that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

SJUMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services. Its Heart Institute is well-regarded, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital’s cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, with medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology all available. SJUMC also has a strong focus on women's health, with a dedicated maternity unit and specialized services.

**Emergency Room Performance at SJUMC:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for patients. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times at SJUMC can fluctuate. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources before visiting the ER. This allows patients to make informed decisions, especially when time is of the essence.

**Telehealth at SJUMC:**

SJUMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, recognizing the growing need for virtual care. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenient access to care. Specific details on available telehealth services can be found on the hospital's website.

**CarePoint Health - St. Mary's Hospital (Passaic, NJ): Another Important Option**

Located in nearby Passaic, NJ, St. Mary's Hospital, part of the CarePoint Health system, offers another healthcare option for residents near 07505. It’s a community hospital, providing a range of services. St. Mary's has a 2-star CMS rating.

**Specialty Services at St. Mary's:**

St. Mary's provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and medical specialties. The hospital offers programs in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital's website provides detailed information on the specific services offered.

**ER Wait Times at St. Mary's:**

ER wait times at St. Mary's are an important consideration. Data on ER wait times is often available through online resources and hospital websites. It’s advisable to check these sources for the most up-to-date information before seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth at St. Mary's:**

CarePoint Health, including St. Mary's, has been expanding its telehealth capabilities. This can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. Specific telehealth services offered at St. Mary's can be found on the hospital's website.

**Hackensack University Medical Center (Hackensack, NJ): A Regional Powerhouse**

While slightly further afield, Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) is a major regional hospital and a highly rated facility. It's a flagship hospital within the Hackensack Meridian Health network. HUMC consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving 5-star status. This reflects its commitment to providing high-quality care and patient safety.

**Specialty Centers at HUMC:**

HUMC is renowned for its specialized centers of excellence. The hospital has a nationally recognized heart and vascular institute, a comprehensive cancer center, and a leading neuroscience institute. It also offers advanced surgical services, including robotic surgery. The hospital's website provides detailed information on its extensive range of services.

**ER Wait Times at HUMC:**

Given its high volume of patients, ER wait times at HUMC can sometimes be longer. It's advisable to check real-time wait times online or through the hospital's website before visiting the emergency room.

**Telehealth at HUMC:**

Hackensack Meridian Health has invested heavily in telehealth. HUMC offers a wide array of telehealth services, including virtual doctor visits, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists. This allows patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes and can improve access to specialists.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers**

In addition to the major hospitals, the area around Paterson, NJ, also includes smaller hospitals and urgent care centers. These facilities can provide convenient access to care for less serious medical issues. It’s important to understand the scope of services offered by each facility and to choose the appropriate level of care based on your needs.

**Urgent Care Centers:**

Urgent care centers are a valuable option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. They typically offer shorter wait times than hospital ERs and can provide services like vaccinations, minor wound care, and treatment for common ailments. Several urgent care centers are located near Paterson, NJ.

**Overall Health Score Assessment: A Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near Paterson, NJ (07505), is influenced by a variety of factors.

* **St. Joseph's University Medical Center:** A key resource for the community, offering a wide range of services. Its 3-star CMS rating reflects average performance. ER wait times can vary. Telehealth services are available.
* **CarePoint Health - St. Mary's Hospital:** Another important option, providing community-based care. Its 2-star CMS rating indicates areas for improvement. ER wait times should be considered. Telehealth services are expanding.
* **Hackensack University Medical Center:** A regional leader with a strong reputation and a 5-star CMS rating. Offers a comprehensive range of specialty services. ER wait times can be longer. Extensive telehealth capabilities.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Emergency Situations:** For life-threatening emergencies, the nearest emergency room should be utilized.
* **For Routine Care:** Consider primary care physicians and specialists within the area.
* **Research and Compare:** Utilize hospital websites and online resources to research services, check ER wait times, and compare patient reviews.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for convenient access to care.
* **Stay Informed:** Healthcare information is constantly evolving. Regularly check for updates on hospital ratings, services, and telehealth offerings.

This review provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare options near Paterson, NJ. It is essential to conduct thorough research and consult with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about your health and well-being. This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns.