08217, Elwood, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 08217, Elwood, New Jersey is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 08217 (Ocean City, NJ)

This review provides an in-depth look at the healthcare landscape surrounding Ocean City, New Jersey (ZIP code 08217), evaluating hospitals based on a range of factors crucial to overall health. We'll examine their performance, accessibility, and specific services, offering a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for each. This analysis considers data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), publicly available hospital data, and other relevant sources.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The immediate vicinity of Ocean City is primarily served by hospitals located in neighboring communities, particularly in Atlantic County. Proximity and ease of access are key considerations for residents in this coastal area, especially during peak tourist seasons. The availability of specialized care, including emergency services and advanced treatment options, is also paramount.

**Shore Medical Center (Somers Point, NJ):**

Shore Medical Center, located in Somers Point, NJ, is a significant healthcare provider for the Ocean City area. It's the closest full-service hospital, making it a primary choice for many residents. Shore Medical Center has earned a **4-star rating from CMS**. This rating reflects a solid performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Shore Medical Center's emergency department (ED) is a critical resource. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, the hospital generally strives to maintain reasonable ED wait times. The hospital offers a range of specialized services, including a comprehensive cardiac program, a robust cancer center, and advanced surgical capabilities. Shore Medical Center has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options to enhance patient access and convenience. The hospital's commitment to community outreach and preventative care further contributes to its overall health score.

**Atlanticare Regional Medical Center (Atlantic City & Pomona, NJ):**

Atlanticare Regional Medical Center operates two campuses, one in Atlantic City and another in Pomona, providing a broader scope of services. The Atlantic City campus is a major regional medical center, while the Pomona campus often handles less acute cases. **Atlanticare Regional Medical Center (Atlantic City) has a 3-star rating from CMS**, indicating an area where the hospital needs to improve.

The Atlantic City campus features a Level II Trauma Center, crucial for handling serious injuries and emergencies. Both campuses offer a wide array of specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Atlanticare has a significant presence in behavioral health services, addressing a critical need in the community. Telehealth services are available, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care. ER wait times at Atlanticare can vary, with the Atlantic City campus often experiencing higher volumes. Patients should check real-time wait times before arriving.

**Cape Regional Medical Center (Cape May Court House, NJ):**

Cape Regional Medical Center, while further south, is another option for residents in the Ocean City area. **Cape Regional Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS**. The hospital offers a full spectrum of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized medical treatments.

Cape Regional Medical Center's ED is a key resource for residents of Cape May County. The hospital provides a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Cape Regional has invested in telehealth capabilities, enabling virtual consultations and remote monitoring. ER wait times are generally moderate, but can fluctuate based on seasonal demand.

**Other Considerations:**

Smaller urgent care centers and outpatient clinics dot the landscape, offering convenient options for less serious medical needs. These facilities often provide quicker access to care for minor illnesses and injuries. However, they lack the full range of services and specialized expertise found in hospitals.

**Evaluating Key Metrics:**

Several key metrics are used to assess the "Overall Health Score" of each hospital. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a standardized measure of overall hospital quality, based on a variety of factors.
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** Shorter wait times indicate greater efficiency and responsiveness in emergency situations.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, reflects the hospital's capacity to address complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The presence of telehealth services enhances access to care, particularly for patients in remote areas or with mobility limitations.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores and feedback are crucial indicators of the quality of care provided.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation from reputable organizations, such as The Joint Commission, demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data and the evaluation of key metrics, the hospitals near ZIP code 08217 are assessed as follows:

* **Shore Medical Center:** Receives a strong "Overall Health Score" due to its 4-star CMS rating, proximity to Ocean City, comprehensive services, and investment in telehealth. Its ED wait times are generally reasonable.
* **Atlanticare Regional Medical Center:** The Atlantic City campus receives a "Moderate Health Score" due to its 3-star CMS rating. While it offers a Level II Trauma Center and a wide range of services, patients should be aware of potentially longer ED wait times. The Pomona campus would be considered a lower score due to its lack of acute care services.
* **Cape Regional Medical Center:** Receives a "Moderate Health Score" due to its 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a full range of services and is a valuable resource for residents in the southern part of the region.

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Proximity is a significant factor for residents of Ocean City, particularly during emergencies. Shore Medical Center's closer location offers a distinct advantage in terms of accessibility. Atlanticare Regional Medical Center, while further away, provides a broader range of specialized services. Cape Regional Medical Center, though further south, is another option to consider.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. They offer patients greater convenience and access to specialists, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. All three hospitals have invested in telehealth, reflecting a growing trend in healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Ocean City, NJ (ZIP code 08217) offers a range of options for residents. Shore Medical Center stands out as a strong choice due to its proximity, 4-star CMS rating, and comprehensive services. Atlanticare Regional Medical Center provides a broader range of specialized care, while Cape Regional Medical Center offers another option for residents in the southern part of the region. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences when choosing a hospital or healthcare provider. It's always wise to check real-time ED wait times and confirm insurance coverage before seeking care. The ongoing evolution of telehealth services promises to further enhance access and convenience for patients in the years to come.