11366, Fresh Meadows, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11366, Fresh Meadows, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 11366 (Rego Park, NY)

Rego Park, New York, nestled in the heart of Queens, boasts a diverse population with varying healthcare needs. Access to quality medical care is paramount, and residents in the 11366 ZIP code have several hospital options within a reasonable radius. This review assesses the overall health score of these hospitals, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and more.

**A Focus on Proximity and Accessibility**

The primary hospitals serving the 11366 area are concentrated in Queens and nearby Brooklyn. While specialized care may necessitate travel further afield, the following institutions offer a range of services crucial for everyday healthcare needs. Proximity is a key factor, impacting emergency response times and ease of access for routine appointments.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

**NewYork-Presbyterian Queens (Flushing, NY):** Located a short distance from Rego Park, NewYork-Presbyterian Queens is a major player. This hospital is part of the larger NewYork-Presbyterian system, known for its affiliation with Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University Irving Medical Center. While its CMS star rating fluctuates, it generally hovers around 3 or 4 stars. This reflects a mixed performance, with strengths in certain areas and areas for improvement. The hospital's emergency room sees a high volume of patients, and wait times can vary. Publicly available data indicates average ER wait times, but these can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. NewYork-Presbyterian Queens boasts a comprehensive range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. Telehealth services are increasingly integrated, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions and providing convenient access to care.

**Mount Sinai Queens (Long Island City, NY):** Another prominent option, Mount Sinai Queens, is part of the renowned Mount Sinai Health System. This hospital consistently receives a strong CMS star rating, often achieving 4 or 5 stars, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. Mount Sinai Queens generally demonstrates shorter ER wait times compared to some other hospitals in the area, a crucial factor for emergency situations. The hospital excels in several specialties, including cardiology, gastroenterology, and orthopedics. Mount Sinai has invested heavily in telehealth, providing a robust platform for virtual visits, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those seeking convenient access to follow-up care.

**Jamaica Hospital Medical Center (Jamaica, NY):** While slightly further afield, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center serves a significant portion of the Queens population. The hospital's CMS star rating is typically in the 2-3 star range, indicating areas for improvement in quality metrics. ER wait times at Jamaica Hospital can be variable, and it's advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by phone before visiting. Jamaica Hospital provides a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, surgery, and various medical specialties. Telehealth services are available, although the scope and integration may be less extensive than at some of the other hospitals.

**Long Island Jewish Forest Hills (Forest Hills, NY):** Located within close proximity to Rego Park, Long Island Jewish Forest Hills is a key hospital in the Northwell Health system. The hospital’s CMS star rating varies, often in the 3-4 star range. ER wait times are subject to fluctuation, and it is best to check real-time data. Long Island Jewish Forest Hills offers a wide range of medical services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical specialties. The hospital is expanding its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Other Important Considerations**

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:** Emergency room wait times are a significant indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. While average wait times are often published, they can be misleading. Factors such as the severity of a patient's condition, the time of day, and the overall patient volume can significantly impact wait times. Patients should utilize online resources like the ER wait time trackers to gain real-time insight.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:** The availability of specialized care is a crucial factor in assessing a hospital's overall health score. Hospitals with dedicated centers for cardiology, oncology, neurology, and other specialties often provide a higher level of care and expertise. The presence of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as robotic surgery and advanced imaging, also contributes to a hospital's overall capabilities.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access:** Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals offer convenient access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and managing chronic conditions. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.

**Patient Satisfaction and Experience:** While difficult to quantify in a single score, patient satisfaction is a vital component of healthcare quality. Patient reviews, surveys, and feedback provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of facilities, and the overall level of care.

**Specific Specialty Centers and Their Impact**

**Cardiology:** Hospitals with well-established cardiology programs often offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for heart conditions. Look for hospitals with cardiac catheterization labs, electrophysiology services, and specialized heart failure clinics.

**Oncology:** Cancer care is a complex field, and hospitals with comprehensive oncology programs are highly valued. These programs often include medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and access to clinical trials.

**Orthopedics:** Hospitals with orthopedic centers provide care for musculoskeletal conditions, including joint replacements, sports injuries, and spinal disorders. Look for hospitals with experienced orthopedic surgeons and access to advanced imaging and rehabilitation services.

**Women's Health:** Hospitals with dedicated women's health centers offer a range of services, including obstetrics and gynecology, mammography, and specialized care for women's health issues.

**Mental Health:** Mental health services are increasingly important, and hospitals with psychiatric units and outpatient mental health programs play a vital role in providing care for mental health conditions.

**The Role of Insurance and Cost:**

While this review focuses on quality and access, the cost of healthcare is a significant concern. Patients should consider their insurance coverage and the hospital's network when choosing a healthcare provider. Understanding the cost of services and the availability of financial assistance programs is essential for making informed decisions.

**Conclusion: A Comparative Overview**

Residents of the 11366 ZIP code have access to several hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Mount Sinai Queens consistently demonstrates strong performance, with high CMS star ratings and relatively short ER wait times. NewYork-Presbyterian Queens offers a wide range of specialties and telehealth services, but its performance metrics can vary. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center provides essential services but may have longer wait times. Long Island Jewish Forest Hills is a good option with a range of services and a growing telehealth platform. The best choice for each individual will depend on their specific healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and preferences. It is essential to research each hospital thoroughly, considering the factors outlined in this review, to make an informed decision about where to seek care. Regular reviews of hospital performance are recommended as these metrics are subject to change.