11756, Levittown, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11756, Levittown, New York is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Patchogue, NY (ZIP Code 11756)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Patchogue, New York (ZIP code 11756), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability, offering a comprehensive view to inform healthcare decisions.

**Flagship Institutions and CMS Star Ratings**

The immediate vicinity of Patchogue is home to several significant hospitals, each vying for the attention of patients seeking quality care. A key metric for assessing hospital performance is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system. This system, ranging from one to five stars, provides a publicly available snapshot of a hospital's overall quality, based on various measures including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Stony Brook University Hospital**, located approximately 20 miles west of Patchogue, stands as a major regional healthcare provider. As a tertiary care center, it offers a wide array of specialized services and is often the destination for complex medical cases. Its CMS star rating fluctuates, but it generally maintains a solid rating, reflecting its commitment to quality. The hospital’s research and teaching affiliations also contribute to its reputation.

**Catholic Health’s Good Samaritan Hospital**, situated in West Islip, is another prominent option. Good Samaritan is a large community hospital with a diverse range of medical and surgical services. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of its performance. The hospital is known for its cardiac care and has a significant presence in the local community.

**South Shore University Hospital**, part of Northwell Health, located in Bay Shore, is another critical player. It is a comprehensive community hospital with a focus on providing accessible care to the South Shore communities. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of its performance, and the hospital is known for its emergency services and various specialty programs.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for many patients. Long wait times can exacerbate existing medical conditions and cause unnecessary stress. Publicly available data, often accessible through hospital websites or third-party platforms, provides insights into average ER wait times. However, these are just averages, and individual experiences can vary.

Stony Brook University Hospital, as a Level I Trauma Center, often experiences higher ER volumes, potentially leading to longer wait times, especially during peak hours. Patients with life-threatening conditions are, of course, prioritized.

Good Samaritan Hospital, with its large emergency department, aims to provide timely care. While wait times can fluctuate, the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times to ensure patients receive prompt attention.

South Shore University Hospital's emergency department is a significant resource for the area. It is important for patients to understand that wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Expertise**

Beyond general medical care, access to specialized services is vital. The hospitals near Patchogue offer a range of specialty centers catering to specific medical needs.

Stony Brook University Hospital boasts a comprehensive cancer center, a renowned heart center, and specialized programs in neurology and neurosurgery. Its affiliation with a major university allows it to offer cutting-edge treatments and access to clinical trials.

Good Samaritan Hospital offers a robust cardiac program, a comprehensive stroke center, and specialized services in areas like orthopedics and women's health.

South Shore University Hospital provides a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and a dedicated bariatric surgery program.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It offers patients the convenience of accessing medical consultations and follow-up appointments remotely.

Stony Brook University Hospital has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations across numerous specialties. This allows patients to connect with specialists without traveling to the hospital.

Good Samaritan Hospital also embraces telehealth, offering virtual appointments for various services, including primary care and some specialist consultations.

South Shore University Hospital has increased its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual access to doctors and specialists.

**Specific Considerations for Patchogue Residents**

For residents of Patchogue (11756), proximity and transportation are key factors. Good Samaritan Hospital and South Shore University Hospital are generally more accessible than Stony Brook University Hospital, especially for those without easy access to transportation.

The choice of hospital often depends on the specific medical need. For complex conditions or specialized treatments, Stony Brook University Hospital might be the preferred choice. For more routine care or emergency situations, Good Samaritan Hospital or South Shore University Hospital are often more convenient.

**Other Important Factors**

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the CMS, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall hospital environment.

**Hospital Safety:** Hospitals are assessed on their safety records. Infection rates, medication errors, and other safety indicators are carefully monitored. The CMS and other organizations publish data on hospital safety, allowing patients to make informed decisions.

**Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs are a significant concern for many patients. The cost of care can vary significantly between hospitals and procedures. Patients should inquire about costs and insurance coverage before receiving treatment.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the hospitals near Patchogue, NY (11756) offer a range of healthcare options.

**Stony Brook University Hospital** receives a strong overall score due to its comprehensive services, specialized centers, and research affiliations. However, its location and potentially longer ER wait times are factors to consider.

**Good Samaritan Hospital** earns a solid overall score, with its strong community presence, diverse services, and reasonable accessibility. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of its performance.

**South Shore University Hospital** also receives a good overall score, providing comprehensive services to the area. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of its performance, and its accessibility is a significant advantage for many Patchogue residents.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for each hospital is a subjective assessment. The best choice for a patient depends on their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Residents of Patchogue should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, research specific hospitals, and consult with their primary care physicians to make informed healthcare decisions. The availability of telehealth options further enhances the accessibility of care, providing patients with greater flexibility and convenience.