12978, Redford, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 12978, Redford, New York is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Saranac Lake, NY (ZIP Code 12978)

Saranac Lake, New York, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, presents unique healthcare considerations. Proximity to major medical centers is a key factor, as is the ability to handle both routine and emergency needs in a geographically challenging area. This review analyzes the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 12978, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services.

**Adirondack Medical Center (AMC): The Local Hub**

Adirondack Medical Center (AMC), located in Saranac Lake, is the primary hospital serving the immediate area. As part of the Adirondack Health system, AMC is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives specific federal funding to maintain services in rural communities. It’s a 50-bed facility, providing a range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and inpatient medical care.

AMC’s performance is best understood within the context of its rural setting. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) does not assign star ratings to critical access hospitals, which limits direct comparison to larger, urban facilities. However, AMC’s focus is on providing essential services close to home, minimizing the need for lengthy travel in emergencies.

**Emergency Room Dynamics**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency. While specific, publicly available wait time data for AMC fluctuates, it is generally advisable to contact the hospital directly or consult their website for the most current estimates. Factors like seasonal tourism, which brings an influx of visitors, can impact wait times. Residents should also be aware of alternative urgent care options in the region for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Specialty Services at AMC**

AMC offers a selection of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. The hospital also provides a range of diagnostic services, such as radiology and laboratory testing. While AMC may not have the breadth of specialized centers found in larger hospitals, its focus is on providing essential care and stabilizing patients before potential transfer to a tertiary care facility if necessary.

**Telehealth Integration**

Telehealth is increasingly important in rural healthcare. AMC has integrated telehealth services to improve access to specialists and consultations. This is particularly valuable for residents who may face significant travel challenges. Telehealth can facilitate virtual appointments with specialists, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to mental health services. The availability and utilization of telehealth services at AMC are important factors in evaluating its overall health score.

**Glens Falls Hospital: A Regional Option**

Approximately 70 miles from Saranac Lake, Glens Falls Hospital, part of the Glens Falls Hospital Healthcare System, offers a broader range of services and a higher level of specialization. Glens Falls Hospital is a larger, 410-bed facility, and is a designated regional trauma center.

Glens Falls Hospital has a CMS star rating, providing a comparative measure of its quality. It's important to note that star ratings are just one metric and should be considered alongside other factors. The hospital's CMS rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room at Glens Falls**

Emergency room wait times at Glens Falls Hospital are generally longer than at AMC, reflecting its larger size and higher patient volume. However, the hospital's trauma center designation means it is equipped to handle complex emergency cases. The hospital's website and local sources provide updated wait time information.

**Specialty Centers at Glens Falls**

Glens Falls Hospital boasts a more extensive array of specialty centers than AMC. These include a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and a dedicated orthopedic center. The hospital also provides advanced surgical capabilities and intensive care services. This wider range of services makes Glens Falls Hospital a key referral center for residents of the Saranac Lake area.

**Telehealth at Glens Falls**

Glens Falls Hospital has embraced telehealth to expand its reach and improve patient access. Telehealth services are offered in various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and behavioral health. The hospital utilizes telehealth for both consultations and remote monitoring, enhancing care coordination and reducing the need for travel.

**University of Vermont Medical Center: A Further Reach**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM Medical Center) in Burlington, Vermont, is another option, approximately 100 miles from Saranac Lake. As a tertiary care center and academic medical center, UVM Medical Center offers the highest level of specialized care in the region.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics**

UVM Medical Center has a CMS star rating, providing a benchmark for its quality performance. The hospital's rating reflects its performance across a wide range of metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. The hospital is a major referral center for complex medical cases, drawing patients from a wide geographic area.

**Emergency Department at UVM Medical Center**

The emergency department at UVM Medical Center handles a high volume of patients, resulting in potentially longer wait times. The hospital's website and local sources provide up-to-date information on wait times. The hospital's trauma center designation ensures it is equipped to handle the most critical emergency cases.

**Specialty Centers at UVM Medical Center**

UVM Medical Center offers an extensive range of specialty centers, including comprehensive cancer care, advanced cardiac services, and specialized neurological care. The hospital is a leader in research and innovation, offering access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. The hospital’s specialists provide a high level of expertise in numerous medical fields.

**Telehealth at UVM Medical Center**

UVM Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, providing access to specialists and remote monitoring services. Telehealth is used for various specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and mental health. This allows patients in the Saranac Lake area to connect with specialists without traveling long distances.

**Other Considerations: Transportation and Accessibility**

Geographic factors significantly influence healthcare access in the Saranac Lake area. The Adirondack region's mountainous terrain and potential for inclement weather can make travel challenging, especially during emergencies. Residents should consider the availability of reliable transportation, including ambulance services and air medical transport.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP code 12978 is a composite of factors. AMC provides essential, local care, with the advantage of proximity and established relationships within the community. Glens Falls Hospital offers a broader range of services and specialty care within a reasonable driving distance. UVM Medical Center provides the highest level of specialized care, but with longer travel times. Telehealth services are increasingly important, offering improved access to specialists and remote monitoring.

The ideal approach for residents involves a combination of factors. It includes establishing a primary care physician at AMC or another local practice, understanding the capabilities of AMC for routine care and emergencies, and being aware of the resources available at Glens Falls Hospital and UVM Medical Center for specialized care. The choice of hospital will depend on the specific medical needs, the severity of the condition, and the individual’s ability to travel. Residents should also familiarize themselves with local emergency services and transportation options. Regular review of hospital performance data, including CMS star ratings and wait times, will help to inform healthcare decisions.