08245, South Dennis, New Jersey Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 08245, South Dennis, New Jersey is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Ocean City, NJ (ZIP Code 08245)

Choosing the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a medical need. For residents and visitors near Ocean City, New Jersey (ZIP Code 08245), understanding the available healthcare landscape is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" perspective, examining key factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options for the most prominent hospitals in the region. This is not a ranking, but rather an informational overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Atlanticare Regional Medical Center - Mainland Campus (Pomona, NJ): A Regional Hub**

Atlanticare Regional Medical Center - Mainland Campus, located a short drive from Ocean City in Pomona, NJ, serves as a major regional healthcare provider. This facility is a significant player in the healthcare ecosystem for the 08245 ZIP code.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Atlanticare Mainland holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of care that meets national standards.
* **Emergency Department (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial consideration. Publicly available data suggests that ER wait times at Atlanticare Mainland can fluctuate. It's essential to check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospital directly, especially during peak hours or weekends. Shorter wait times generally correlate with better efficiency in managing patient flow.
* **Specialty Centers:** Atlanticare Mainland offers a range of specialty services. These include cardiology, oncology, and a comprehensive stroke center. The presence of a stroke center, in particular, signifies the hospital's ability to rapidly diagnose and treat stroke patients, which is critical for positive outcomes.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Atlanticare has expanded its telehealth offerings. This includes virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring programs for chronic conditions. Telehealth provides convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments or for patients in remote areas. The availability of telehealth services is an increasingly important factor in overall healthcare accessibility.

**AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center - Atlantic City Campus (Atlantic City, NJ): A Coastal Presence**

Located in Atlantic City, the Atlanticare Regional Medical Center - Atlantic City Campus provides another option for residents near 08245. This campus offers a different set of services and a different location, which can be a deciding factor for some patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The Atlantic City Campus also holds a 3-star CMS rating. This indicates a similar level of quality to the Mainland Campus, though the specific metrics contributing to the rating may differ.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at the Atlantic City Campus, like those at the Mainland Campus, can vary. Checking real-time wait times is recommended. Proximity to the Jersey Shore can influence ER volume, particularly during the summer months.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Atlantic City Campus provides a different set of specialty services. It includes a specialized heart institute and a comprehensive cancer center. The cancer center is particularly significant, providing advanced treatments and support services for cancer patients.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The Atlantic City Campus also provides telehealth services, offering patients virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. This further expands access to care for residents in the area.

**Shore Medical Center (Somers Point, NJ): A Community Focus**

Shore Medical Center, located in Somers Point, NJ, is a community-focused hospital with a strong presence in the region. It provides a different healthcare experience, often emphasizing personalized care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Shore Medical Center has a 4-star CMS rating. This higher rating indicates a stronger performance across various quality metrics compared to the Atlanticare campuses.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shore Medical Center's ER wait times are a critical factor for patients seeking immediate care. Checking current wait times is advisable. The hospital's reputation for efficiency in the ER can be a significant draw for patients.
* **Specialty Centers:** Shore Medical Center provides a range of specialty services, including a comprehensive cardiac program and a dedicated orthopedic center. These specialized centers offer advanced treatments for specific conditions.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Shore Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors influence the overall healthcare landscape near 08245.

* **Urgent Care Centers:** Numerous urgent care centers are available in the region. These centers provide convenient care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, offering an alternative to the ER for certain situations.
* **Specialist Availability:** The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is crucial. Patients may need to travel to different locations to see specific specialists, depending on their needs.
* **Ambulatory Surgery Centers:** Ambulatory surgery centers offer outpatient surgical procedures. These centers often provide a more convenient and cost-effective alternative to hospital-based surgeries for certain procedures.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** Access to rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, is important for patients recovering from injuries or illnesses.
* **Mental Health Services:** The availability of mental health services, including therapy and psychiatric care, is a critical component of overall healthcare.

**Data Limitations and Caveats:**

It's important to acknowledge the limitations of this review.

* **Data Updates:** Hospital ratings and wait times can change frequently. The information provided here is based on publicly available data, which may not always reflect the most current situation. Always verify information directly with the hospitals.
* **Individual Experiences:** Patient experiences can vary widely. While CMS star ratings and wait times provide valuable insights, they don't capture the full picture of individual patient experiences.
* **Specific Needs:** The "best" hospital depends on individual healthcare needs. A hospital with a strong cardiology program might be ideal for a patient with heart problems, while another patient might prioritize a hospital with a comprehensive cancer center.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in healthcare access. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and specialists they are considering.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Ocean City, NJ (ZIP Code 08245) offers a range of options. Atlanticare Regional Medical Center (both Mainland and Atlantic City campuses) and Shore Medical Center are the most prominent choices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The CMS star ratings provide a general indication of quality, but it's essential to consider ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and individual healthcare needs. Residents and visitors should research their options carefully, considering all factors to make the best healthcare decisions for themselves and their families. Ongoing research, including checking real-time wait times and verifying insurance coverage, is crucial for navigating the healthcare system effectively.