12935, Ellenburg Depot, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 12935, Ellenburg Depot, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12935

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially in a rural area like the one surrounding ZIP code 12935, which encompasses the town of Elizabethtown, New York, and its surrounding communities. This review offers an objective assessment of the healthcare landscape, focusing on key performance indicators to help residents make informed choices. We'll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of nearby hospitals, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability.

**A Landscape Defined by Proximity and Resources**

The healthcare options near 12935 are largely shaped by the region's geography and population density. While the area is known for its natural beauty, it also presents challenges in terms of access to specialized medical care. Residents often rely on a network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers spread across a wider geographic area. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those that serve the population of Elizabethtown and its surrounding areas.

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

Elizabethtown Community Hospital (ECH) is the closest hospital, a critical access hospital serving the immediate community. ECH is part of the University of Vermont Health Network, which provides a degree of regional integration. ECH is a small hospital, and as a critical access facility, it is designed to provide essential services to a rural population.

ECH's services include a 24-hour emergency department, a primary care clinic, and a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. The hospital also offers rehabilitation services and a skilled nursing facility. While specific CMS star ratings for ECH are not readily available, the hospital's affiliation with the UVM Health Network suggests a commitment to quality and patient safety.

Emergency room wait times at ECH are generally reported as moderate, reflecting the hospital's size and the volume of patients it serves. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing patients to access specialist consultations and follow-up care remotely. ECH’s ability to provide local access to healthcare is crucial for the residents of 12935.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, Vermont**

A significantly larger hospital, the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, Vermont, is a regional referral center that is accessible to residents of 12935, albeit with a longer travel time. UVMMC is a Level I trauma center and offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including advanced specialty care.

UVMMC has consistently received high ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While specific star ratings can fluctuate, UVMMC generally performs well in areas such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Emergency room wait times at UVMMC can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. As a major referral center, the ER often handles a high number of cases. However, UVMMC has implemented strategies to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.

UVMMC boasts an extensive array of specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular center, and a neurological institute. The hospital is also at the forefront of telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. For residents of 12935, UVMMC offers access to specialized care that may not be available locally.

**Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, New York**

Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, New York, is another important regional hospital that serves the population of 12935. CVPH is a large, full-service hospital with a wide range of medical services.

CVPH's CMS star ratings are generally good, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. The hospital consistently scores well in areas such as patient satisfaction and infection control.

Emergency room wait times at CVPH can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital has made efforts to improve efficiency and reduce wait times, but patients should still be prepared for potential delays.

CVPH offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital also has a dedicated women's health center and a behavioral health unit. Telehealth services are increasingly available at CVPH, allowing patients to access specialist consultations and follow-up care remotely. CVPH is a key healthcare provider for the residents of 12935, offering a balance of local access and specialized care.

**Comparing the Options: A Scorecard Approach**

To provide a clearer comparison, we can consider a simplified scorecard approach, acknowledging the limitations of this type of assessment. This is not a formal rating, but rather a summary of the key factors discussed:

| Hospital | CMS Star Rating (Approximate) | ER Wait Times (Approximate) | Specialty Services | Telehealth Availability | Accessibility from 12935 |
| :------------------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :---------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------- | :---------------------- | :------------------------- |
| Elizabethtown Community Hospital (ECH) | Not readily available | Moderate | Cardiology, Orthopedics, General Surgery, Primary Care | Yes | Very Accessible |
| University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) | High | Variable | Comprehensive (Cancer, Heart, Neurology, Trauma) | Extensive | Moderate (Longer Drive) |
| Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) | Good | Variable | Cardiology, Oncology, Orthopedics, Women's Health | Yes | Moderate |

**Interpreting the Scorecard**

The scorecard highlights the trade-offs involved in choosing a hospital. ECH offers the most convenient access but has a more limited range of services. UVMMC provides access to the most specialized care but requires a longer drive. CVPH offers a balance of services and accessibility.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors should influence a patient's decision. The availability of specific specialists, the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction, and the ease of communication with healthcare providers are all important.

For residents of 12935, proximity is a significant factor. ECH offers the convenience of local care for many common medical needs. However, patients with complex conditions may need to travel to UVMMC or CVPH for specialized treatment.

**The Role of Telehealth**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Both ECH and CVPH are expanding their telehealth offerings, allowing patients to access specialist consultations and follow-up care remotely. This can reduce the need for travel and improve access to care for residents of 12935. UVMMC is a leader in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual services.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision that depends on individual needs and circumstances. For residents of 12935, the options include the local ECH, as well as the larger regional hospitals of UVMMC and CVPH. Each hospital offers its own strengths and weaknesses.

ECH provides convenient access to essential services. UVMMC offers access to the most specialized care. CVPH provides a balance of services and accessibility. Patients should consider their individual medical needs, the availability of specific specialists, and the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction when making their decision. Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in bridging the gap between patients and specialists. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents of 12935 can make informed choices about their healthcare.