11434, Jamaica, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11434, Jamaica, New York is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 11434 (Jamaica, NY)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near the 11434 ZIP code in Jamaica, NY, focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions. The assessment considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and overall reputation. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather a comprehensive overview to aid in understanding the available options.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 11434 ZIP code is served by a diverse range of hospitals, from large, well-established institutions to smaller, specialized facilities. Proximity is a key factor, but quality of care, accessibility, and specific needs should also be considered. This review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that "near" can be subjective.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance:**

**1. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center (89th Avenue, Jamaica, NY):** Jamaica Hospital is a major player in the area. It’s a large, full-service hospital with a broad range of specialties. The hospital has a Level 1 Trauma Center, which is a significant asset for handling critical injuries and emergencies. Jamaica Hospital's CMS star rating fluctuates, but it generally hovers around the average. Emergency room wait times are a critical factor. Recent data suggests that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and day of the week, but the hospital strives to keep wait times as low as possible. Jamaica Hospital offers a wide array of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health. Telehealth services are available, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital is actively involved in community outreach programs.

**2. Long Island Jewish Forest Hills (102-01 66th Road, Forest Hills, NY):** Located a short distance from 11434, Long Island Jewish Forest Hills is a well-regarded hospital within the Northwell Health system. It consistently receives good CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality care. The hospital is known for its strong performance in specific areas like cardiology and orthopedics. ER wait times are generally competitive, often shorter than at larger facilities. Long Island Jewish Forest Hills offers a range of specialty centers, including those focused on cancer treatment and women’s health. Telehealth services are integrated into its care model, providing convenient access to specialists. The hospital actively participates in research and clinical trials.

**3. Queens Hospital Center (82-68 164th Street, Jamaica, NY):** Queens Hospital Center is another significant hospital serving the 11434 area. It is part of the NYC Health + Hospitals system, providing care to a diverse patient population. The hospital’s CMS star rating varies, but it generally strives to meet the needs of the community. Emergency room wait times are a key consideration, and the hospital works to manage patient flow efficiently. Queens Hospital Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including behavioral health and substance abuse treatment. Telehealth capabilities are expanding, providing increased access to care. The hospital is deeply involved in community health initiatives.

**4. New York-Presbyterian Queens (56-45 Main Street, Flushing, NY):** While slightly further afield, New York-Presbyterian Queens is a highly respected hospital within the New York-Presbyterian system. It consistently receives high CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to excellence. The hospital is known for its advanced medical technologies and specialized programs. ER wait times are typically well-managed. New York-Presbyterian Queens offers a broad spectrum of specialty centers, including those focused on cardiology, neurology, and cancer care. Telehealth services are extensively integrated, providing convenient access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities. The hospital is a major teaching hospital, contributing to medical research and education.

**5. St. John's Episcopal Hospital (327 Beach 19th Street, Far Rockaway, NY):** Located in Far Rockaway, St. John's Episcopal Hospital is another option, particularly for residents in the southern part of the 11434 area. The hospital’s CMS star rating can fluctuate. Emergency room wait times are a key factor to consider. St. John's offers a range of services, including a cardiac center and a wound care center. Telehealth services are available, expanding access to care. The hospital serves a diverse community and is involved in various community outreach programs.

**Detailed Breakdown of Key Metrics:**

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. These ratings provide a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital performance. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally demonstrate a stronger commitment to quality. It is important to note that ratings can change over time.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. Hospitals strive to minimize wait times, but these can vary significantly. Patients should be aware of potential wait times and consider factors like the severity of their condition and the hospital's overall capacity. Real-time wait time data is often available on hospital websites or through third-party apps.

**Specialty Centers:** The presence and quality of specialty centers are important for patients with specific medical needs. Hospitals offer specialized care in areas like cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. Researching the specific expertise and resources available at each hospital is crucial.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and remote consultations. Hospitals are expanding their telehealth offerings to improve patient access and convenience. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for their specific needs.

**Overall Reputation and Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews and online ratings can provide valuable insights into a hospital's reputation and the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report offer patient reviews and rankings. However, it's essential to consider the source and the context of the reviews.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Proximity:** While not always the most important factor, proximity is a key consideration, especially in emergencies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Specific Medical Needs:** Choose a hospital with expertise in your specific medical condition or specialty.
* **Patient Reviews and Reputation:** Consider patient reviews and the hospital's overall reputation.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check current wait times if possible, especially if you need immediate care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Determine if telehealth services are available for your needs.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Use CMS star ratings as a general indicator of quality, but don't rely on them exclusively.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near the 11434 ZIP code offer a range of options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Long Island Jewish Forest Hills, Queens Hospital Center, New York-Presbyterian Queens, and St. John's Episcopal Hospital are all significant players in the area. Careful consideration of factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities is essential when making a healthcare decision. Residents should research the hospitals thoroughly and consider their individual needs and preferences. This review provides a starting point for that research, but it is not a substitute for consulting with a healthcare provider. Remember that healthcare needs are unique, and the "best" hospital is the one that best meets your individual requirements.