07874, Stanhope, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 07874, Stanhope, New Jersey is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Sparta, NJ (ZIP Code 07874)

Sparta, New Jersey, residents have a few key hospital options within a reasonable driving distance. This review assesses the overall health score of these facilities, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and more. This information is crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

**Morristown Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Morristown Medical Center, located approximately 25 miles from Sparta, is the clear flagship. It's part of Atlantic Health System and consistently earns high marks. Morristown boasts a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating superior overall quality. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Morristown Medical Center's Emergency Department (ED) generally experiences moderate wait times. While specific real-time data fluctuates, average wait times are typically within the national average. The hospital's ED is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, and they have specialized areas for stroke and cardiac care.

The hospital is a regional leader in several specialties. The Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute is nationally recognized, offering advanced cardiac procedures and treatments. The Carol G. Simon Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care, including advanced radiation therapy and surgical oncology. Morristown also has a strong reputation in neurosurgery, orthopedics, and women's health.

Telehealth is a significant component of Atlantic Health System's offerings. Morristown Medical Center provides telehealth consultations for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and certain chronic disease management programs. This allows patients to access care remotely, improving convenience and access.

**Saint Clare's Hospital: A Community Focus**

Saint Clare's Hospital, with locations in Denville and Dover (both within reasonable driving distance of Sparta), provides a more community-focused healthcare experience. While not boasting a five-star CMS rating, Saint Clare's generally receives solid ratings. The hospital system is part of Prime Healthcare, a for-profit system.

Emergency Department wait times at Saint Clare's can vary depending on the location and time of day. However, they generally strive to keep wait times reasonable. Both the Denville and Dover locations provide 24/7 emergency care.

Saint Clare's offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They also have a dedicated maternity unit. While not as extensive as Morristown's specialty offerings, Saint Clare's provides essential services for the local community.

Telehealth services are available at Saint Clare's, though the scope may be more limited than at Morristown. They offer telehealth consultations for certain specialties, helping patients access care remotely.

**Newton Medical Center: Serving Sussex County**

Newton Medical Center, part of Atlantic Health System, is located in Newton, NJ, and is closer to Sparta than Morristown. It serves as a critical healthcare provider for Sussex County. The hospital generally receives solid ratings.

Newton Medical Center's Emergency Department wait times are typically reasonable. The ED is equipped to handle a variety of medical emergencies.

Newton Medical Center provides a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They also have a strong focus on primary care and preventative health services.

Telehealth services are available at Newton Medical Center, aligning with the Atlantic Health System's commitment to remote care. Patients can access telehealth consultations for various specialties.

**Other Considerations: Outpatient Facilities and Urgent Care**

Beyond the main hospitals, residents of Sparta have access to various outpatient facilities and urgent care centers. These facilities can provide convenient access to non-emergency medical care, such as minor injuries, illnesses, and routine checkups.

Several urgent care centers are located within a short driving distance of Sparta. These centers typically offer shorter wait times than hospital emergency departments and are suitable for conditions that require immediate attention but are not life-threatening.

Outpatient facilities, such as those offering physical therapy, diagnostic imaging, and specialized medical services, are also available in the area. These facilities can provide convenient access to specialized care without requiring a hospital visit.

**Comparing the Options: A Comparative Analysis**

Morristown Medical Center clearly emerges as the highest-rated hospital in the area, based on its five-star CMS rating, extensive specialty offerings, and robust telehealth program. However, the distance from Sparta is a factor to consider.

Saint Clare's Hospital and Newton Medical Center provide valuable healthcare services closer to Sparta. They offer essential emergency care and a range of specialty services, making them convenient options for local residents.

The choice of hospital will depend on individual needs and preferences. For complex medical conditions or specialized care, Morristown Medical Center is the preferred choice. For routine care or emergencies, Saint Clare's Hospital or Newton Medical Center may be more convenient.

**Specific Data Points: A Deeper Dive**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** As of the latest available data, Morristown Medical Center holds a five-star CMS rating. Saint Clare's and Newton Medical Center generally receive solid ratings, though they may not be five-star rated. Always verify the most current CMS ratings on the CMS website.
* **ER Wait Times:** Real-time ER wait times fluctuate. Check the hospital websites or third-party websites like Google or Healthgrades for the most up-to-date information. Note that wait times are often longer during peak hours and on weekends.
* **Specialty Centers:** Morristown Medical Center boasts nationally recognized specialty centers in cardiology and cancer care. Saint Clare's and Newton Medical Center offer a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Atlantic Health System (Morristown and Newton) has a robust telehealth program. Saint Clare's offers telehealth services, though the scope may be more limited. Check the hospital websites for specific telehealth offerings.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are available on the hospital websites and through third-party websites. These scores provide insights into patient experiences, including communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction.
* **Hospital Safety:** Hospital safety is a critical consideration. Check the hospital websites and third-party websites for information on infection rates, patient safety measures, and other safety metrics.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Residents of Sparta, NJ, have access to a range of hospital options. Morristown Medical Center is the flagship institution, offering comprehensive services and a high-quality rating. Saint Clare's Hospital and Newton Medical Center provide valuable community-focused care.

When choosing a hospital, consider factors like proximity, specialty needs, ER wait times, and telehealth availability. Researching these factors and understanding the strengths of each facility will empower residents to make informed healthcare decisions. Always consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and guidance. Remember to verify all data points, including CMS ratings and ER wait times, as they are subject to change.