11768, Northport, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11768, Northport, New York is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Navigating Healthcare in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 11768: An Overall Health Score Review

The quest for quality healthcare is a constant, and for residents near the ZIP code 11768 (Patchogue, NY, and surrounding areas), several hospitals vie for their attention. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from CMS star ratings to ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. It aims to guide informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Understanding the Score:** This review doesn't assign a single, numerical "score." Instead, it presents a multifaceted evaluation, weighing various data points and highlighting strengths and weaknesses of each institution. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding, enabling residents to choose the best option based on their individual needs.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

**Long Island Community Hospital (LICH):** Located in Patchogue, LICH is a key player. It's a community hospital affiliated with the Northwell Health system. LICH currently does not have a CMS star rating, a significant factor for many patients. This rating reflects overall quality and patient experience based on publicly available data. While the absence of a star rating doesn't automatically equate to poor care, it does limit readily available comparative data.

LICH's Emergency Room (ER) wait times are a crucial consideration. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, it's essential to consult the hospital's website or third-party sources like ER wait time trackers for the most up-to-date information. Shorter wait times generally indicate greater efficiency and can be a critical factor in urgent situations.

LICH boasts a range of specialty centers. These include a comprehensive cardiac care program, a robust cancer center, and a well-regarded maternity ward. The hospital also has a focus on surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures. Telehealth offerings are increasingly important. LICH, as part of Northwell Health, likely provides telehealth options, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up care remotely. Specific details on the availability of telehealth services, including the types of specialists available and the platforms used, can be found on the Northwell Health website.

**Stony Brook University Hospital:** Situated a bit further afield, but still accessible to residents of 11768, Stony Brook University Hospital is a flagship institution. It holds a CMS star rating, which provides a valuable benchmark for overall quality. The most recent rating should be consulted on the CMS website, as these ratings are updated periodically. A higher star rating suggests a better performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

Stony Brook's ER wait times are also a critical factor. The hospital's website and external resources should be consulted for current wait times. Stony Brook's ER is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most severe emergencies.

Stony Brook is renowned for its extensive specialty centers. It houses a highly regarded cancer center, a leading heart institute, and a strong neurosciences program. The hospital is also a major teaching hospital, which often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and research. Telehealth services are likely a significant component of Stony Brook's offerings, given its status as a major medical center. Details on available telehealth consultations, platforms, and specialists can be found on the hospital's website.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

**Southside Hospital (Bay Shore):** Another Northwell Health facility, Southside Hospital is within reasonable driving distance for many 11768 residents. It's important to check Southside's CMS star rating, if available, as it provides a snapshot of overall quality.

ER wait times at Southside should be checked on the hospital's website or third-party sources. Southside Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. Telehealth options are likely available through the Northwell Health network.

**Mather Hospital (Port Jefferson):** Mather Hospital, part of Northwell Health, offers a further option. Check the hospital's CMS star rating, if available.

ER wait times should be assessed via the hospital's website or other sources. Mather Hospital has a range of specialty services, including a cancer center and a cardiology program. Telehealth services are likely available.

**Factors Beyond the Hospitals:**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, several other factors influence the overall healthcare landscape near 11768.

**Physician Availability:** The density of primary care physicians and specialists in the area impacts access to care. Check online physician directories, insurance provider websites, and local community resources to identify available doctors.

**Insurance Coverage:** The type of insurance coverage a resident has significantly affects their access to care. Ensure that the chosen hospital and physicians are within your insurance network.

**Transportation:** Transportation options, including public transportation and accessibility for those with disabilities, play a role in accessing healthcare.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience at each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can offer valuable information.

**Specific Needs and Considerations:**

The "best" hospital is often the one that best meets an individual's specific needs.

**For Emergency Care:** Consider ER wait times, proximity to the hospital, and the hospital's trauma center designation. Stony Brook University Hospital, with its Level I Trauma Center, may be the preferred choice for severe emergencies.

**For Specialized Care:** Research the specific specialty centers offered by each hospital. Stony Brook, for example, is known for its cancer center and heart institute. LICH has a strong maternity ward.

**For Routine Care:** Consider the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within your insurance network and the convenience of the hospital's location.

**For Telehealth:** If telehealth is a priority, investigate the telehealth services offered by each hospital, including the types of specialists available and the platforms used.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital near 11768 requires careful consideration. While a single "Overall Health Score" is impossible to assign, this review provides the framework for a more informed decision. Residents should research CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, physician availability, and patient reviews. By considering these factors and their individual needs, residents can make the best choice for their healthcare. Remember that healthcare landscapes are dynamic. Always consult the most current information from the hospitals and relevant healthcare resources to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.