13415, New Lisbon, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 13415, New Lisbon, New York is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Little Falls, NY (ZIP Code 13415)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Little Falls, New York (ZIP code 13415), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial for informed decision-making. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. While no single hospital perfectly caters to every need, this analysis aims to offer a comprehensive overview to guide healthcare choices.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

The immediate vicinity of Little Falls doesn't boast a plethora of hospitals. Residents primarily rely on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, often venturing towards Utica and Herkimer for comprehensive care. This geographic reality significantly impacts access to specialized services and the overall healthcare experience.

**Bassett Healthcare Network: A Regional Powerhouse**

The Bassett Healthcare Network, though not directly in Little Falls, is a dominant force in the region. Its flagship hospital, Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, NY, serves as a referral center and a crucial resource for advanced medical care. While a drive, it is a significant option.

Bassett Medical Center holds a respectable, though not exceptional, CMS star rating. The most recent publicly available data shows a rating of three stars. This rating, while not the highest, indicates a hospital that generally meets national standards for quality and safety. It's important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can fluctuate. It's always wise to check the most up-to-date information on the CMS website.

Bassett Medical Center boasts a wide array of specialty services. Its cardiology program is well-regarded, offering comprehensive cardiac care, including interventional procedures. The hospital's cancer center provides integrated oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Bassett also has a strong orthopedic department, offering advanced surgical options.

Telehealth is a growing component of Bassett's service offerings. The network has expanded its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring for chronic conditions. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas who may face travel challenges. Specific statistics on telehealth utilization for the Little Falls area are difficult to obtain, but the network's overall commitment to telehealth suggests accessibility.

**St. Elizabeth Medical Center (Utica)**

St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica, part of the Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS), is another significant option for residents near Little Falls. It is approximately a 30-minute drive.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center's CMS star rating is a crucial factor. Publicly available data indicates a three-star rating. The hospital's performance is generally considered to be at a satisfactory level, but it is not among the highest-rated facilities in the state.

The hospital's emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical concern. While precise, real-time data is often unavailable, anecdotal evidence and publicly reported data suggest that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. It is always wise to call ahead if possible.

St. Elizabeth offers a range of specialty services. Its cardiology program provides comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic testing and interventional procedures. The hospital's surgical services cover a broad spectrum of specialties, including general surgery, orthopedics, and urology.

Telehealth capabilities at St. Elizabeth are expanding. The hospital offers virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. However, the extent of telehealth availability and utilization specifically for Little Falls residents is not readily available.

**Faxton St. Luke's Healthcare (Utica)**

Faxton St. Luke's Healthcare, also part of MVHS in Utica, is another significant option for residents. It is also approximately a 30-minute drive.

Faxton St. Luke's Healthcare's CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. Publicly available data indicates a three-star rating. This rating suggests that the hospital generally meets national standards for quality and safety.

ER wait times at Faxton St. Luke's are a critical factor for patients. Data on ER wait times can vary, but patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Calling ahead, if possible, is always recommended.

Faxton St. Luke's offers a diverse range of specialty services. Its cardiology program provides comprehensive cardiac care. The hospital's surgical services cover a broad spectrum of specialties, including general surgery, orthopedics, and urology.

Telehealth capabilities at Faxton St. Luke's are evolving. The hospital offers virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. However, the extent of telehealth availability and utilization specifically for Little Falls residents is not readily available.

**Little Falls Hospital: A Local Option**

Little Falls does have its own hospital, though it is a smaller, community hospital. It is a critical local resource.

Little Falls Hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. Publicly available data indicates a three-star rating. This rating suggests that the hospital generally meets national standards for quality and safety.

ER wait times at Little Falls Hospital are a critical factor for patients. Data on ER wait times can vary, but patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Calling ahead, if possible, is always recommended.

Little Falls Hospital offers a diverse range of specialty services. Its cardiology program provides comprehensive cardiac care. The hospital's surgical services cover a broad spectrum of specialties, including general surgery, orthopedics, and urology.

Telehealth capabilities at Little Falls Hospital are evolving. The hospital offers virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. However, the extent of telehealth availability and utilization specifically for Little Falls residents is not readily available.

**Other Considerations: Ambulatory Care and Urgent Care**

Beyond hospitals, residents have access to other healthcare options. Ambulatory care centers and urgent care clinics offer convenient alternatives for less serious medical needs. These facilities often provide faster service and lower costs compared to emergency rooms. The availability of these facilities in the immediate Little Falls area may be limited, but options exist in Utica and Herkimer.

**Mental Health Services**

Access to mental health services is a critical aspect of overall healthcare. Residents of Little Falls have access to mental health providers, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. The availability of these services may vary, and wait times for appointments can be a concern. Referrals from primary care physicians are often a good starting point.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

For residents of Little Falls, NY (ZIP code 13415), the "Overall Health Score" is a mixed bag. The area benefits from proximity to the Bassett Healthcare Network and the Mohawk Valley Health System, offering access to a range of specialty services. However, the reliance on facilities outside of the immediate community means longer travel times, which can impact access to care, especially in emergencies.

CMS star ratings for the primary hospitals in the region are generally adequate, but not exceptional. ER wait times are a persistent concern, and patients should be prepared for potential delays. Telehealth capabilities are expanding, offering a potential solution for some access challenges.

**Recommendations**

Residents should proactively research their healthcare options. Checking the CMS website for the most up-to-date star ratings is essential. Contacting hospitals directly to inquire about ER wait times and specific services is recommended. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is crucial for coordinating care and accessing referrals to specialists.

The "Overall Health Score" for Little Falls is contingent on navigating a healthcare landscape that requires travel and careful planning. While the region offers solid healthcare options, residents must be proactive in understanding their choices and making informed decisions to ensure their health needs are met.