11804, Old Bethpage, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 11804, Old Bethpage, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 11804

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health crisis. For residents near ZIP code 11804 (Bethpage, NY, and surrounding areas), several healthcare options exist, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, empowering informed healthcare choices.

**Northwell Health System: A Dominant Presence**

Northwell Health dominates the healthcare landscape in the region, boasting a significant network of hospitals and outpatient facilities. Their flagship hospitals are major players, heavily influencing the overall health score for the area.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (LIJMC): A High-Performing Hub**

Located in New Hyde Park, NY, LIJMC is a large, tertiary care hospital and a cornerstone of the Northwell system. LIJMC consistently earns high marks from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Its star rating, a composite score reflecting quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience, fluctuates but generally remains in the four-star range. This indicates a commitment to quality, although performance can vary year to year. LIJMC is renowned for its specialized centers, including the Katz Women's Hospital, the Cohen Children's Medical Center, and advanced cardiac and neurological care.

ER wait times at LIJMC are a crucial consideration. While precise real-time data varies, historical averages suggest wait times can fluctuate, often exceeding the national average, particularly during peak hours. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially for non-life-threatening conditions. Northwell Health provides online tools and apps to check estimated wait times, a valuable resource for patients.

Telehealth is a growing focus for Northwell, and LIJMC is no exception. They offer a range of telehealth services, including virtual urgent care, specialist consultations, and remote monitoring programs. The availability of telehealth is a significant advantage, providing convenient access to care and potentially reducing the need for in-person visits. The system's telehealth infrastructure is constantly evolving, with ongoing investment in technology and expanding service offerings.

**South Shore University Hospital (formerly Southside Hospital): Serving the South Shore**

Located in Bay Shore, NY, South Shore University Hospital is another major Northwell facility, serving a different geographic area. Its CMS star rating also typically falls in the four-star range, reflecting a commitment to quality. South Shore offers a broad range of services, including a comprehensive cardiac program, a cancer center, and a dedicated maternity unit.

ER wait times at South Shore are another crucial factor. Like LIJMC, wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Real-time data is essential for informed decision-making. The hospital, like others in the Northwell system, provides online resources to check wait times.

Telehealth services are also available at South Shore, providing virtual access to care. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations. The hospital is constantly expanding its telehealth offerings.

**Plainview Hospital: A Community Focus**

Plainview Hospital, also part of the Northwell system, serves a more local population. It typically receives a good CMS star rating, often in the four-star range, indicating a solid standard of care. Plainview has a strong reputation for its maternity services and offers a range of other specialties.

ER wait times at Plainview, as with other hospitals, can fluctuate. Patients should utilize available online resources to check estimated wait times.

Telehealth services are available at Plainview, providing patients with convenient access to care. The hospital is constantly expanding its telehealth offerings.

**Catholic Health System: A Competitive Alternative**

Catholic Health is another major healthcare provider in the region, offering a competitive alternative to Northwell.

**St. Joseph Hospital (Bethpage): A Local Option**

Located in Bethpage, NY, St. Joseph Hospital is a community hospital that provides a range of services. It's a convenient option for residents in the 11804 area. St. Joseph's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its quality of care. It's important to check the most recent rating, as it can fluctuate.

ER wait times at St. Joseph are a crucial consideration. The hospital's wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Online resources are available to check estimated wait times.

Telehealth services are offered, providing virtual access to care. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Outpatient Care**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the area offers various specialized centers and outpatient facilities. These include:

* **Cancer Centers:** Several hospitals have dedicated cancer centers, providing comprehensive cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
* **Cardiac Centers:** Advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery, is available at several hospitals.
* **Orthopedic Centers:** Specialized orthopedic care, including joint replacements and sports medicine, is readily available.
* **Outpatient Clinics:** Numerous outpatient clinics offer a range of services, including primary care, specialist consultations, and diagnostic testing.

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

ER wait times are a significant factor in the overall health score. Patients seeking emergency care often prioritize timely access to medical attention. Hospitals in the area generally provide online tools to check estimated wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions. However, these estimates are not always perfectly accurate, and wait times can vary significantly.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are rapidly expanding, offering virtual access to care. This includes virtual urgent care, specialist consultations, and remote monitoring programs. The availability of telehealth is a significant advantage, providing convenient access to care and potentially reducing the need for in-person visits.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The overall health score for the area near ZIP code 11804 is generally good, with several high-performing hospitals offering a wide range of services. Northwell Health dominates the landscape, with LIJMC and South Shore University Hospital serving as major hubs. Catholic Health and St. Joseph Hospital provide competitive alternatives.

**Key Considerations for Choosing a Hospital:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** This is a valuable indicator of overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check online resources for estimated wait times, but be prepared for potential delays.
* **Specialized Services:** Consider your specific healthcare needs and choose a hospital with the appropriate specialists and facilities.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Utilize telehealth services for convenient access to care.
* **Location and Accessibility:** Choose a hospital that is conveniently located and easily accessible.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and general trends. Specific circumstances and individual patient experiences may vary. Always consult with your primary care physician or healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. The CMS star ratings and ER wait times are subject to change. It is recommended to check the most up-to-date information before making healthcare decisions.