07737, Leonardo, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07737, Leonardo, New Jersey is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Navigating Healthcare in Monmouth County: An Overall Health Score Review for Hospitals Near 07737 (Lincroft, NJ)

Living in the Lincroft, NJ area (ZIP code 07737) grants residents access to a network of healthcare providers. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the hospitals in closest proximity, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a clear, fact-based overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The focus is on the most relevant hospitals for residents of Lincroft.

**The Methodology: A Multifaceted Approach**

This review doesn't assign a single, numerical "score." Instead, it presents a comprehensive picture based on publicly available data. Information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and third-party sources like Healthgrades and ProPublica are analyzed. Key performance indicators (KPIs) like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of specialized services are considered. It’s important to remember that healthcare needs are individual, and this review is a starting point for research, not a definitive recommendation.

**Riverview Medical Center: A Red Bank Beacon**

Riverview Medical Center, located in Red Bank (a short drive from Lincroft), is a flagship hospital for the area. It is part of the Hackensack Meridian Health network. Riverview boasts a four-star rating from CMS, indicating above-average performance across various quality metrics. This rating reflects performance in areas such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Riverview’s Emergency Department (ED) is a crucial resource for the community. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, it’s advisable to check the hospital's website or a third-party service like Google to get the most up-to-date information. The hospital has a dedicated cardiac care unit, a stroke center, and a comprehensive cancer center, making it a hub for specialized care. Riverview also offers a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options, particularly useful for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. They are also known for their women's health services.

**Jersey Shore University Medical Center: Neptune's Comprehensive Facility**

Jersey Shore University Medical Center, another Hackensack Meridian Health facility, is located in Neptune, a slightly longer drive from Lincroft than Riverview. It holds a three-star CMS rating. Jersey Shore is a large, comprehensive hospital with a wide range of services.

The ED at Jersey Shore is a high-volume department, and wait times can vary. Again, checking real-time wait times online is recommended. Jersey Shore excels in trauma care, being a Level II Trauma Center. It also houses a renowned cardiac program, a comprehensive cancer center, and specialized pediatric services. The hospital has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, including virtual urgent care and remote patient monitoring. Jersey Shore is known for its advanced surgical capabilities.

**Monmouth Medical Center: Long Branch's Community Hospital**

Monmouth Medical Center, part of the RWJBarnabas Health system, is located in Long Branch. It holds a three-star CMS rating. Monmouth Medical Center serves as a major community hospital, providing a broad spectrum of medical services.

ED wait times at Monmouth Medical Center can fluctuate. As with other hospitals, checking online resources for current wait times is recommended. The hospital has a strong focus on cardiology, oncology, and women's health. Monmouth Medical Center has invested in telehealth, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options, particularly for chronic disease management. The hospital also has a dedicated behavioral health unit.

**Specialty Centers: Focusing on Specific Needs**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of 07737 have access to specialized care centers. These facilities often focus on specific medical needs.

**Cancer Care:** The hospitals mentioned above all have robust cancer centers. The John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center (outside the immediate vicinity but within reasonable driving distance) is a nationally recognized center.

**Cardiac Care:** Both Riverview and Jersey Shore have well-regarded cardiac programs.

**Orthopedics:** Many hospitals offer orthopedic services, including surgical options.

**Mental Health:** Monmouth Medical Center has a dedicated behavioral health unit.

**Rehabilitation:** Specialized rehabilitation centers are available in the area, providing physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in healthcare decisions. Real-time wait times are often available on hospital websites or through third-party services. However, it's essential to remember that these are estimates and can fluctuate based on patient volume and severity of cases.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. All the major hospitals in the area offer telehealth services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online consultations. This can be particularly useful for follow-up appointments, managing chronic conditions, and accessing specialist care.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital involves considering several factors beyond the metrics discussed above.

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?
* **Specialty Needs:** Does the hospital offer the specific services you require?
* **Physician Preferences:** Do you have a preferred physician who practices at a particular hospital?
* **Patient Reviews:** Consider reading patient reviews online to get insights into the patient experience.
* **Personal Preferences:** Some people prefer the feel of a smaller community hospital, while others prefer the comprehensive services of a larger facility.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape: A Summary**

Residents of Lincroft (07737) have access to a strong network of hospitals and healthcare providers. Riverview Medical Center and Jersey Shore University Medical Center, both part of the Hackensack Meridian Health network, are major players, offering a wide range of services. Monmouth Medical Center, part of RWJBarnabas Health, is another key option.

CMS star ratings provide a general indication of quality, but it's essential to consider other factors like ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. Residents should research their specific healthcare needs and consider the factors outlined above when making decisions about their care. Regular check-ups with your primary care physician are crucial to maintain good health and to help guide you to the appropriate specialists or facilities when needed.