11553, Uniondale, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11553, Uniondale, New York is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Levittown, NY (ZIP Code 11553)

Choosing a hospital is a crucial decision, especially when facing a medical emergency or planning for specialized care. This review provides a comprehensive overview of healthcare options near Levittown, New York (ZIP code 11553), analyzing key factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability to help you make informed choices. This analysis prioritizes publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable healthcare review platforms.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

Levittown, located in Nassau County, benefits from access to a robust healthcare network. Several prominent hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance, offering a range of services. Key players include North Shore University Hospital, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, and St. Joseph Hospital. These facilities, along with others, form the core of healthcare options for residents of 11553.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The CMS Star Ratings provide a readily accessible, overall assessment of hospital quality. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are based on various metrics, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. However, it’s crucial to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle and should be considered alongside other factors.

North Shore University Hospital, part of Northwell Health, consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving four or five stars. This reflects strong performance in areas like patient satisfaction and infection control. Long Island Jewish Medical Center, also part of Northwell Health, typically scores similarly, indicating a commitment to quality care. St. Joseph Hospital, while not always rated by CMS, maintains a strong reputation within the community.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: The Critical First Impression**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. Long waits can exacerbate anxiety and potentially delay critical treatment. Hospitals near 11553 vary in their ER wait times, which fluctuate depending on factors like patient volume, staffing levels, and the severity of cases.

Data on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites or through platforms like ProPublica’s Hospital Compare tool. Generally, hospitals with higher patient volumes tend to experience longer wait times. It’s advisable to check current wait times before heading to the ER, especially during peak hours. Northwell Health hospitals, like North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center, typically provide real-time wait time information online.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Expertise**

The availability of specialized medical centers is a critical factor in evaluating a hospital's overall value. These centers offer focused expertise and advanced treatments for specific conditions.

North Shore University Hospital boasts a comprehensive array of specialty centers. Its cardiac care program is well-regarded, offering advanced procedures like cardiac catheterization and open-heart surgery. The hospital also houses a renowned cancer institute, providing comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.

Long Island Jewish Medical Center is another major hub for specialized care. It features a leading transplant center, performing organ transplants for various conditions. The hospital also has specialized centers for neurology, orthopedics, and women's health.

St. Joseph Hospital, while smaller, provides specialty services in areas like cardiology, gastroenterology, and women's health. The hospital's focus on community care makes it a valuable option for residents seeking accessible, personalized treatment.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in recent years. They offer patients convenient access to healthcare providers remotely, improving access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in underserved areas.

Northwell Health has been a pioneer in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual services. These include virtual urgent care, mental health counseling, and specialist consultations. This allows patients to connect with providers from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for in-person visits.

Other hospitals near 11553 are also expanding their telehealth offerings. These services vary, but generally include virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and access to patient portals for managing health information.

**Specific Hospital Profiles:**

**North Shore University Hospital:** A flagship hospital within the Northwell Health system, North Shore consistently receives high CMS star ratings. Its comprehensive range of specialty centers, including a renowned cardiac program and cancer institute, makes it a primary choice for complex medical needs. ER wait times can vary, so checking real-time data is recommended. Telehealth services are readily available, expanding access to care.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center:** Another major Northwell Health facility, Long Island Jewish offers a wide array of specialized services, including a leading transplant center. Its strong reputation and commitment to quality are reflected in its CMS ratings. Like North Shore, it provides robust telehealth options. ER wait times should be monitored before visiting.

**St. Joseph Hospital:** As a community hospital, St. Joseph offers a more personalized approach to care. While it may not have the same breadth of specialty services as the larger hospitals, it provides essential care in areas like cardiology and women's health. Telehealth services are available, though the range might be more limited compared to Northwell Health facilities.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the factors discussed above, several other considerations can influence your choice of hospital. These include:

* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Physician Networks:** Consider whether the hospital has affiliations with your preferred physicians.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews to gain insights into patient experiences.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Check if the hospital is accredited by a reputable organization like The Joint Commission.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital near Levittown, NY (11553) requires careful consideration of various factors. The hospitals in the area offer a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center, both part of Northwell Health, consistently demonstrate high quality and a broad range of services. St. Joseph Hospital provides a valuable community-focused alternative.

By evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center availability, telehealth options, and other relevant factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual healthcare needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and conduct thorough research before making your final choice.