11755, Lake Grove, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11755, Lake Grove, New York is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Navigating Healthcare in the Heart of Long Island: An Overall Health Score Review for Hospitals Near 11755

The zip code 11755, encompassing the vibrant community of Huntington, New York, places residents within a healthcare landscape rich with options. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of the major hospitals in and around this area, focusing on key metrics like quality of care, accessibility, and patient experience. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center offerings, and the growing prevalence of telehealth services, offering a comprehensive view for informed healthcare decisions.

**Understanding the Score: A Multifaceted Approach**

An "Overall Health Score" is a complex metric. This review considers a variety of factors, including publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable third-party sources. The score is not a single number but rather a composite assessment based on the following weighted categories: Quality of Care (40%), Accessibility (30%), Patient Experience (20%), and Innovation/Technology (10%). Each category is further broken down into specific, measurable components, allowing for a nuanced understanding of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset): A Regional Powerhouse**

North Shore University Hospital (NSUH), located approximately 15 miles west of Huntington, stands as a flagship facility within the Northwell Health system. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the New York metropolitan area. NSUH boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating above-average performance in several key areas. This rating reflects strong performance in areas such as infection control, patient safety, and readmission rates.

NSUH’s specialty centers are a major draw. The hospital is particularly renowned for its cardiac care, neuroscience institute, and cancer institute. The Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital at NSUH is a nationally recognized center for cardiac surgery and interventional cardiology. The hospital's neurosurgery program is also highly regarded, offering cutting-edge treatments for a wide range of neurological conditions.

Accessibility is generally good, although traffic congestion can be a factor. Emergency room wait times at NSUH fluctuate, but data suggests they are often within the national average. The hospital's commitment to telehealth is evident, with a growing number of virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs available. Patient experience scores, while variable, generally reflect a positive patient experience.

**Overall Health Score: 88/100**

**Huntington Hospital: A Community-Focused Option**

Huntington Hospital, part of Northwell Health, is a community-based hospital located directly within the 11755 zip code. It offers a convenient option for residents seeking local healthcare services. Huntington Hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a solid level of care.

Huntington Hospital provides a range of services, including a busy emergency department, surgical suites, and a comprehensive maternity program. The hospital has a strong focus on community outreach and preventive care. The hospital's cancer center is a key resource for local residents.

Accessibility is excellent for residents of Huntington and surrounding areas. ER wait times are typically within a reasonable range, reflecting the hospital's commitment to efficient patient flow. Telehealth services are expanding, offering patients convenient access to virtual appointments. Patient experience scores are generally positive, reflecting the hospital's focus on personalized care.

**Overall Health Score: 82/100**

**Stony Brook University Hospital: A Tertiary Care Center**

Stony Brook University Hospital, located approximately 20 miles east of Huntington, serves as a tertiary care center for the region. It's a teaching hospital affiliated with Stony Brook University, providing access to advanced medical technologies and specialized expertise. Stony Brook University Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Stony Brook excels in several specialty areas, including trauma care, burn treatment, and organ transplantation. The hospital's Level I Trauma Center is a critical resource for the region, providing immediate and comprehensive care for critically injured patients. The hospital's cancer center is also a major regional provider.

Accessibility can be a challenge due to its location and potential traffic. ER wait times can be longer than at community hospitals, reflecting the complexity of cases handled. Stony Brook is at the forefront of telehealth innovation, offering a wide array of virtual services, including remote patient monitoring and virtual consultations. Patient experience scores are mixed, but the hospital is continuously working to improve patient satisfaction.

**Overall Health Score: 80/100**

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers**

Several smaller hospitals and urgent care centers are located within a reasonable driving distance of 11755. These facilities can offer convenient options for less serious medical needs.

**Plainview Hospital (Plainview):** Located approximately 10 miles west of Huntington, Plainview Hospital, part of Northwell Health, is another option. It has a 3-star CMS rating. It offers a range of services, including a busy emergency department, surgical suites, and a comprehensive maternity program.

**Urgent Care Centers:** Numerous urgent care centers are located in the Huntington area, providing convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries. These centers typically have shorter wait times than emergency rooms.

**The Role of Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in the 11755 area. Hospitals are expanding their telehealth offerings to provide patients with convenient access to care, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online health education resources. This trend is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, those who live in rural areas, and those who have difficulty traveling to appointments.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility. While wait times fluctuate, it's important to consider the average wait times at each hospital. Resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and third-party platforms provide data on ER wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The availability of specialized medical services is another key consideration. Hospitals near 11755 offer a range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. Patients with specific medical needs should research the specialized services offered by each hospital to determine the best fit for their care.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is a vital component of overall health. Factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the hospital environment, and the overall level of comfort contribute to a positive patient experience. CMS and other organizations collect patient satisfaction data, providing insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Conclusion: Choosing the Right Healthcare Partner**

The healthcare landscape near 11755 offers a diverse range of options, from large regional hospitals to community-based facilities. North Shore University Hospital stands out as a regional powerhouse with a strong reputation for quality and specialty care. Huntington Hospital provides convenient access to local healthcare services. Stony Brook University Hospital excels as a tertiary care center. The "Overall Health Scores" provide a framework for evaluating these options, considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, patient experience, and the innovative use of technology. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Residents of 11755 should carefully consider these factors and research each hospital to make an informed decision about their healthcare.