12924, Keeseville, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 12924, Keeseville, New York is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12924

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health crisis. This review assesses the overall health landscape for residents near ZIP code 12924, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and the availability of specialized care. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive picture.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The 12924 ZIP code, encompassing portions of the Adirondack region, presents a unique challenge: a geographically vast area with a relatively sparse population. This translates to fewer hospital options and potentially longer travel times for specialized care. The primary hospitals serving this area are located in nearby towns and cities, making accessibility a key consideration.

**University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital (ECH): A Local Anchor**

Elizabethtown Community Hospital (ECH) serves as a crucial local healthcare provider. While not a flagship institution, ECH offers essential services for residents of the immediate area. It is a critical access hospital, a designation recognizing its importance in providing care to rural communities. As of the latest available data, ECH has not received a CMS star rating. This rating system, administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, evaluates hospitals based on factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. The absence of a star rating doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but it does mean that the hospital's performance has not been formally assessed by CMS.

**Emergency Room Considerations: Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital accessibility. Unfortunately, specific ER wait time data for ECH is not consistently available in publicly accessible databases. However, in a rural setting like this, travel time to an ER is often the most significant delay. The availability of 24/7 emergency services at ECH is a major benefit for the community, offering immediate care for urgent medical needs.

**Specialty Services at ECH: A Focus on Rural Healthcare**

ECH provides a range of services tailored to the needs of a rural population. These typically include primary care, general surgery, diagnostic imaging, and rehabilitation services. The hospital's focus on these core services is essential for providing accessible healthcare in a geographically challenged area. While ECH might not have the specialized resources of a larger hospital, it plays a vital role in stabilizing patients and providing initial treatment before transferring them to a more specialized facility if needed.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is particularly crucial in rural areas like the Adirondacks. While specific telehealth statistics for ECH are not readily available, it's likely that they offer some telehealth services. Telehealth can help bridge the distance barrier, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and manage chronic conditions. This is especially important for accessing specialists who may not be readily available locally.

**Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH): A Regional Hub**

Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH), located in Plattsburgh, is a larger regional hospital that serves as a referral center for many patients in the 12924 area. CVPH is a member of the University of Vermont Health Network, providing access to a broader network of specialists and resources. As of the latest CMS data, CVPH has a three-star rating. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide.

**CVPH: ER Performance and Specialized Care**

CVPH's emergency room likely experiences higher patient volumes than ECH, potentially leading to longer wait times. Publicly available data on ER wait times at CVPH can fluctuate, so it is important to check up-to-date information from sources like the hospital's website or third-party healthcare comparison sites. CVPH offers a wider range of specialty services compared to ECH. These include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive women's health program. This makes CVPH a key destination for patients requiring specialized medical care.

**Telehealth at CVPH: Expanding Reach**

CVPH, as part of the UVM Health Network, likely has a more robust telehealth program than ECH. This can include virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. The availability of telehealth services at CVPH is a significant advantage for patients in the 12924 area, allowing them to access specialized care without the need for extensive travel.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Travel Time**

For residents near 12924, the distance to hospitals is a major factor. While ECH provides local access, CVPH in Plattsburgh offers a broader range of services. Travel times to these hospitals can vary significantly depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the time of day. Patients should consider travel time when choosing a hospital, especially in emergencies.

**Beyond Hospitals: Access to Primary Care and Outpatient Services**

The availability of primary care physicians and outpatient services is also essential for overall health. Residents of the 12924 area should have access to local primary care providers for routine checkups, preventive care, and chronic disease management. Outpatient services, such as physical therapy, laboratory testing, and imaging, can reduce the need for hospital visits and improve access to care.

**The Role of Urgent Care Centers**

The area may have urgent care centers that can provide immediate care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. These centers can offer an alternative to the ER for less severe conditions, potentially reducing wait times and costs.

**Financial Considerations: Insurance and Costs**

Healthcare costs and insurance coverage are critical factors in accessing care. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted at the hospitals and providers they choose. Understanding the cost of services, including copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses, is essential for managing healthcare finances.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

The overall health landscape for residents near ZIP code 12924 is characterized by a trade-off between local accessibility and access to specialized care. ECH provides essential services in the immediate area, with 24/7 emergency care. CVPH, as a regional hub, offers a wider range of specialties and resources, though with potentially longer travel times. Telehealth plays a crucial role in bridging the distance barrier, connecting patients with specialists and resources remotely.

**Key Takeaways:**

* **Proximity Matters:** Consider the distance to both ECH and CVPH, as travel time can significantly impact care.
* **Specialty Needs:** For specialized care, CVPH is the primary option.
* **Telehealth Advantage:** Utilize telehealth services to access specialists and manage chronic conditions.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check for up-to-date ER wait time information before heading to the emergency room.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage with the chosen hospital and providers.
* **Primary Care is Key:** Establish a relationship with a local primary care physician for routine care and referrals.

This review provides a snapshot of the healthcare options available near ZIP code 12924. It is important to remember that healthcare needs are individual, and the best choice of hospital will depend on specific medical conditions, preferences, and insurance coverage. Residents should consult with their primary care physicians and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their healthcare.