12916, Brushton, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 12916, Brushton, New York is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12916 (Ausable Forks, NY)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near Ausable Forks, NY (ZIP code 12916), access to quality medical care is a critical concern. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of the hospitals in the vicinity, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth offerings. Due to the rural nature of the area, options are limited, but understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is paramount.

**The Landscape: Limited but Essential**

The immediate vicinity of Ausable Forks doesn't boast a plethora of hospitals. Residents primarily rely on facilities within a reasonable driving distance. This review focuses on the most relevant options, acknowledging the importance of considering travel time and individual healthcare needs.

**University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital (ECH)**

ECH, located in Elizabethtown, NY, is a primary care facility serving the region. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special funding due to its rural location and limited resources. ECH is a crucial component of the healthcare ecosystem for residents of 12916.

* **CMS Star Rating:** ECH does not currently have a CMS star rating. Critical access hospitals are not routinely evaluated for star ratings.
* **Emergency Room:** ECH's ER is a vital resource for the community. While specific wait times fluctuate, the ER provides immediate care for urgent medical needs. Due to its critical access status, the ER is staffed to handle a range of emergencies.
* **Specialty Services:** ECH offers a range of services, including primary care, general surgery, and rehabilitation. They also have a strong focus on providing care for the elderly. The hospital has a strong connection with specialists at the University of Vermont Medical Center, allowing for consults and referrals.
* **Telehealth:** ECH has embraced telehealth to extend its reach and improve access to care. Telehealth services are available for various specialties, including behavioral health and chronic disease management. This is particularly beneficial for residents in remote areas.
* **Overall Health Score:** Considering its role as a critical access hospital, ECH provides essential healthcare services to the 12916 area. Its commitment to telehealth and strong ties to larger facilities are positive aspects. However, the lack of a CMS star rating and the limitations inherent in a small hospital must be considered.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT)**

While located across state lines and approximately a two-hour drive from Ausable Forks, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, VT, is a major referral center and a significant healthcare resource for the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UVMMC has a 4-star CMS rating. This indicates a generally good performance across various quality metrics.
* **Emergency Room:** UVMMC's ER is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most complex medical emergencies. Wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of cases.
* **Specialty Services:** UVMMC offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and transplant services. It is a major research and teaching hospital, attracting leading specialists.
* **Telehealth:** UVMMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring for a variety of conditions. This expands access to specialists for patients in rural areas.
* **Overall Health Score:** UVMMC is a high-performing hospital with a wide array of services. The 4-star CMS rating reflects a commitment to quality. However, the significant travel distance from 12916 is a major consideration.

**Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake, NY)**

Located in Saranac Lake, NY, Adirondack Medical Center (AMC) is a regional hospital serving the Adirondack Park. It's approximately an hour's drive from Ausable Forks.

* **CMS Star Rating:** AMC does not currently have a CMS star rating.
* **Emergency Room:** AMC's ER provides 24/7 emergency care. Wait times vary, but the hospital strives to provide timely care.
* **Specialty Services:** AMC offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. It is a regional cancer center.
* **Telehealth:** AMC is expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve access to specialists and remote monitoring services.
* **Overall Health Score:** AMC is a vital regional hospital with a good range of services. The absence of a CMS star rating is a factor, but its location closer to 12916 than UVMMC makes it a more accessible option for many residents.

**Understanding ER Wait Times**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. These times can fluctuate based on factors like the number of patients, the severity of their conditions, and staffing levels. While specific wait times are not always readily available, it's important to consider this factor when choosing a hospital for emergency care. Patients with life-threatening conditions are prioritized, but those with less urgent needs may experience longer waits.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. Hospitals in the region are expanding their telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other services. This is a positive trend for residents of 12916.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital:**

It's important to consider factors beyond the hospital itself when assessing healthcare access. These include:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** The availability of primary care physicians in the Ausable Forks area is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management.
* **Specialist Availability:** Access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is essential for managing complex medical conditions.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage significantly impacts access to care. Understanding your insurance plan and its coverage of specific hospitals and services is critical.
* **Transportation:** Transportation options, especially for those without personal vehicles, can affect access to healthcare facilities.

**Overall Health Score Summary for 12916 Residents:**

The healthcare landscape near Ausable Forks, NY, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Residents have limited options, but each facility plays a critical role.

* **ECH (Elizabethtown Community Hospital):** Serves as the local primary care and emergency access point. Its critical access status and focus on telehealth are positives, but its limited resources must be considered.
* **UVMMC (Burlington, VT):** A high-quality, comprehensive hospital with a 4-star CMS rating. The significant travel distance is a major drawback.
* **Adirondack Medical Center (Saranac Lake):** A regional hospital with a good range of services and closer proximity to 12916 than UVMMC.

**Recommendations for 12916 Residents:**

* **Establish a Primary Care Provider:** Having a primary care physician in the area is essential for preventative care and referrals.
* **Understand Your Insurance Coverage:** Familiarize yourself with your insurance plan's network and coverage of hospitals and specialists.
* **Consider Telehealth Options:** Explore telehealth services to expand access to specialists and remote monitoring.
* **Plan for Travel:** Be prepared for potential travel to access specialized care at UVMMC or AMC.
* **Stay Informed:** Keep up-to-date on local healthcare developments and changes in hospital services.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Know the location of the nearest ER and how to access emergency services.

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near 12916 is a complex equation. While the area has limited hospital options, the existing facilities, along with telehealth advancements, provide essential healthcare services. Residents must weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, considering their individual healthcare needs and the realities of rural healthcare access. Continuous monitoring of local healthcare developments and proactive engagement with the healthcare system are vital for ensuring optimal health outcomes.