12936, Essex, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 12936, Essex, New York is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 12936

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when dealing with a health concern. This review provides an in-depth look at the healthcare landscape near ZIP code 12936, offering an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the prominent hospitals in the area. This score considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, providing a comprehensive overview to inform your healthcare choices.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Key Hospitals**

The primary focus of this review centers on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of ZIP code 12936, which encompasses portions of the Adirondack region. This includes hospitals in Plattsburgh, NY, and potentially those further afield, depending on their accessibility and regional significance. The review will prioritize hospitals with a proven track record, considering their impact on the local population and their ability to provide a wide range of medical services.

**Understanding the "Overall Health Score" Methodology**

The "Overall Health Score" isn't a single, definitive number. Instead, it's a composite assessment based on several key metrics. We'll consider the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, a widely recognized indicator of hospital quality. While CMS ratings are not perfect, they offer a valuable benchmark. We will also analyze publicly available data on ER wait times, a critical factor in emergency situations. Furthermore, the review will delve into the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, and the presence of advanced technologies. Finally, we'll assess the integration of telehealth services, which have become increasingly important for patient access and convenience.

**Hospital Profiles: A Detailed Examination**

**University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH)**

CVPH in Plattsburgh, NY, is a major player in the region. This hospital is a significant regional healthcare provider, and its performance is critical for residents of the 12936 area. CVPH has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.

CVPH's emergency room wait times can vary. Publicly available data suggests wait times are often within the national average, but this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Patients should always call ahead or check online for current wait times if possible.

CVPH offers a range of specialized services. The hospital has dedicated centers for cardiology, cancer care, and women's health. They also provide comprehensive surgical services, including robotic surgery. CVPH has been investing in telehealth, offering virtual visits for certain specialties. This can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Alice Hyde Medical Center**

Alice Hyde Medical Center, located in Malone, NY, serves a significant portion of the surrounding region. Its proximity to the 12936 ZIP code makes it a relevant option for healthcare needs. Alice Hyde Medical Center currently has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

ER wait times at Alice Hyde can vary, and patients should check current wait times before arriving. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized clinics. Alice Hyde has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Elizabethtown Community Hospital**

Elizabethtown Community Hospital, while smaller, serves the local community with a focus on primary care and specialized services. This hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

ER wait times at Elizabethtown Community Hospital are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals, making it a good option for urgent care needs. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized clinics. Elizabethtown Community Hospital is committed to telehealth, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Access**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the availability of specialty centers is crucial. The presence of specialized cardiology, oncology, and orthopedic centers significantly impacts the overall healthcare landscape. Patients with complex medical needs often require access to these specialized services.

Access to care is another critical factor. This includes the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and the ease of scheduling appointments. The distance to a hospital, the availability of public transportation, and the presence of community health centers all contribute to access.

**Telehealth: The Expanding Frontier**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The ability to consult with a doctor remotely, receive virtual therapy, and monitor health conditions from home can significantly improve access to care and patient convenience. Hospitals in the 12936 area are actively expanding their telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties and remote monitoring programs.

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

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergency situations. While these times can fluctuate, they provide a valuable indicator of hospital efficiency and capacity. Patients should be aware of the average wait times at each hospital and consider this when making healthcare decisions. Publicly available data, often found on hospital websites or through online tools, can help patients estimate wait times.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Baseline Indicator**

CMS star ratings provide a valuable baseline for assessing hospital quality. These ratings, based on a range of quality measures, offer a snapshot of hospital performance. While these ratings are not the sole determinant of quality, they provide a useful starting point for patients seeking to understand hospital performance.

**Overall Health Score Summary and Recommendations**

Based on the factors discussed, the hospitals near ZIP code 12936 offer a range of healthcare options. CVPH, as the largest regional hospital, provides a comprehensive range of services, but patients should be aware of potentially longer wait times. Alice Hyde Medical Center and Elizabethtown Community Hospital are also important healthcare providers in the region.

**Recommendations for Patients:**

* **Research:** Before choosing a hospital, research the specific services you need and compare the options available.
* **Check Wait Times:** If you need emergency care, check current ER wait times.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for convenience and access to care.
* **Review CMS Ratings:** Use CMS star ratings as a starting point for assessing hospital quality.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask your primary care physician for recommendations and guidance.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape near ZIP code 12936, offering insights into hospital quality, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. By considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the hospital that best meets their individual requirements. The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic assessment, and patients should continuously update their information based on their specific needs and the evolving healthcare landscape.