07712, Asbury Park, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07712, Asbury Park, New Jersey is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Atlantic Highlands, NJ (ZIP Code 07712)

Choosing a hospital is a crucial decision, especially when facing a health crisis or planning for future care. For residents of Atlantic Highlands, NJ (ZIP Code 07712), several hospitals offer a range of services. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth accessibility, to aid in informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape near Atlantic Highlands is primarily shaped by a few major players, each with varying strengths and weaknesses. Proximity, specialty availability, and individual patient needs will ultimately determine the best fit. This analysis considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging the realities of accessing care in the region.

**Key Considerations for Evaluation:**

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number but a synthesis of several factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system (1-5 stars) based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital performance.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** Time spent in the ER is a critical factor. Shorter wait times often indicate more efficient operations and potentially faster access to care. Data is often self-reported and can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized centers, such as cardiac care, cancer treatment, or stroke centers, is crucial for patients with specific needs.
* **Telehealth Accessibility:** The rise of telehealth has expanded access to care. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs offer increased convenience and access to specialists.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and surveys provide insights into the overall patient experience, including communication, cleanliness, and staff responsiveness.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates a commitment to quality and safety standards.

**Hospital Spotlight: Riverview Medical Center (Red Bank, NJ)**

Riverview Medical Center, located in Red Bank, NJ, is a prominent hospital serving the 07712 area. Riverview is part of the Hackensack Meridian Health network.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Riverview Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS. This indicates above-average performance across several key quality metrics.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Riverview are generally considered average compared to other hospitals in the region. Actual wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or a third-party site like ER Wait Times before arriving.
* **Specialty Centers:** Riverview boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. These include a highly regarded cardiac care program, a comprehensive cancer center, a stroke center, and specialized services for women's health and orthopedics. Riverview is known for its robotic surgery capabilities.
* **Telehealth Accessibility:** Riverview has invested significantly in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits with various specialists, remote monitoring programs, and access to online health resources. This is a significant advantage for patients seeking convenient access to care.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores at Riverview are generally positive, reflecting a commitment to patient-centered care. However, individual experiences can vary.
* **Accreditation:** Riverview Medical Center is accredited by The Joint Commission, demonstrating adherence to rigorous quality and safety standards.

**Hospital Spotlight: Monmouth Medical Center (Long Branch, NJ)**

Monmouth Medical Center, located in Long Branch, NJ, is another major hospital option for residents of Atlantic Highlands. Monmouth is part of the RWJBarnabas Health network.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Monmouth Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Monmouth Medical Center can fluctuate. It is recommended to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting.
* **Specialty Centers:** Monmouth offers a wide array of specialty services, including a renowned cardiac program, a cancer center, and comprehensive services for women and children.
* **Telehealth Accessibility:** Monmouth Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores at Monmouth vary.
* **Accreditation:** Monmouth Medical Center is accredited by The Joint Commission.

**Other Considerations:**

Several other healthcare facilities are worth noting, although they may not be full-service hospitals:

* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located near Atlantic Highlands. These facilities are suitable for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, offering a faster and often more affordable alternative to the ER. However, they lack the resources of a full-service hospital.
* **Specialty Clinics:** Numerous specialty clinics provide focused care in areas such as cardiology, dermatology, and physical therapy. These clinics can be a good option for patients needing specialized treatment.
* **Outpatient Surgery Centers:** Outpatient surgery centers offer a convenient option for certain surgical procedures, often with shorter wait times and lower costs than hospital-based surgeries.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important. Both Riverview and Monmouth offer telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and accessing specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area. The convenience and accessibility of telehealth are significant advantages.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times can significantly impact patient outcomes. Both Riverview and Monmouth strive to minimize wait times. However, these times can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases. Checking online resources or calling ahead to inquire about wait times is always recommended before going to the ER.

**Patient Satisfaction: The Human Element:**

Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Reviewing these surveys can help you understand how patients perceive the quality of care, communication, and overall experience at a particular hospital.

**Overall Health Score Considerations for Atlantic Highlands Residents:**

* **For routine care and non-emergency situations:** Consider a primary care physician within your insurance network. Local urgent care centers offer a convenient alternative for minor illnesses and injuries.
* **For complex medical needs or emergencies:** Riverview Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center are the primary choices. Evaluate the CMS star ratings, specialty services, and ER wait times to determine which hospital best suits your needs.
* **For specialized care:** Research the specific specialty centers at each hospital to determine which offers the best expertise and resources for your condition.
* **For convenience and access:** Explore the telehealth options offered by both hospitals. Telehealth can provide convenient access to specialists and remote monitoring programs.
* **For patient experience:** Review patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews to gain insights into the overall patient experience at each hospital.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. Riverview Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center are the primary options for residents of Atlantic Highlands, NJ (ZIP Code 07712). Riverview, with its 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive specialty centers, and strong telehealth program, may be a preferred choice for some. Monmouth, with its 3-star CMS rating and established reputation, also offers a range of services. Carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, including CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth accessibility, and patient satisfaction, to make an informed decision that aligns with your individual healthcare needs. Remember to always consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.