13668, Norwood, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 13668, Norwood, New York is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Ogdensburg, NY (ZIP Code 13668)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to Ogdensburg, NY (ZIP Code 13668), focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions about their care. This analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. While proximity is a primary consideration, the quality of care, as indicated by these metrics, is paramount.

**The Landscape: Primary Hospitals and Key Considerations**

The immediate area surrounding Ogdensburg is primarily served by Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg itself. Residents may also consider hospitals further afield, particularly in Watertown or Potsdam, to access a broader range of specialized services. The availability of specialists, the efficiency of emergency care, and the integration of telehealth are increasingly critical components of a comprehensive healthcare assessment.

**Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center: A Closer Look**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, located directly in Ogdensburg, serves as the primary hospital for the local population. The hospital is a critical access hospital, which means it receives specific funding and has certain limitations in terms of services offered. As of the most recent publicly available data, Claxton-Hepburn does not have a CMS star rating. This is not unusual for critical access hospitals, as they are not always rated in the same way as larger facilities.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's important to note that Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center's ER is a vital resource for the community. The hospital’s website and other public sources should be consulted for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times.

Claxton-Hepburn offers a range of services including general surgery, cardiology, and orthopedics. The hospital also provides women's health services and has a dedicated birthing center. The availability of specialists is a key factor. The hospital’s website provides a directory of physicians and their specialties.

Claxton-Hepburn has been investing in telehealth services. Telehealth allows patients to access medical consultations and follow-up care remotely, improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas. Details on the specific telehealth offerings, including the specialties covered and the availability of virtual appointments, can be found on the hospital’s website.

**Considerations for Specialized Care: Expanding the Scope**

For specialized care, residents may need to look beyond Ogdensburg. The availability of advanced treatments and specialists can vary significantly between hospitals. This necessitates considering facilities in nearby cities.

**Carthage Area Hospital: An Option in the Region**

Carthage Area Hospital, located in Carthage, NY, is another hospital that might be considered. Carthage Area Hospital is also a critical access hospital. As with Claxton-Hepburn, it is important to consult their website for the most up-to-date information on services and ER wait times.

**Watertown Regional Options: Samaritan Medical Center**

Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, NY, is a larger facility that offers a broader range of specialized services. Samaritan Medical Center has a CMS star rating, which can be a valuable indicator of overall quality. The CMS star rating system assesses hospitals on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. It is important to check the most recent data on the CMS website, as ratings can change.

Samaritan Medical Center boasts a comprehensive emergency department, offering 24/7 care. ER wait times are available via the hospital's website and through third-party sources. The hospital also offers a wide array of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology. They have dedicated centers for cancer care and heart health.

Telehealth is an increasingly important part of the healthcare landscape at Samaritan Medical Center. The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring for various conditions. Detailed information on the available telehealth services, including how to schedule appointments, is available on their website.

**Potsdam and Canton Options: Canton-Potsdam Hospital and St. Lawrence Health**

Canton-Potsdam Hospital, part of St. Lawrence Health, is another hospital option. St. Lawrence Health is a regional healthcare system, and Canton-Potsdam Hospital is one of its key facilities. Information on their CMS star rating, ER wait times, and available services can be found on their website.

St. Lawrence Health also offers a range of telehealth services. The system has been actively expanding its telehealth capabilities, providing remote access to specialists and virtual consultations.

**Assessing ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor in assessing hospital efficiency and responsiveness. Longer wait times can indicate potential overcrowding or resource constraints. Publicly available data, often accessible on hospital websites or through third-party platforms, provides information on average ER wait times. It is important to note that these are averages, and individual wait times can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the time of day.

**Specialty Centers: Access to Advanced Care**

The presence of specialty centers, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, is a key indicator of a hospital's ability to provide advanced care. Hospitals with dedicated centers often have specialized equipment, experienced staff, and access to the latest treatments.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Telehealth is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Hospitals that have embraced telehealth offer patients the convenience of remote consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments. This can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient satisfaction.

**Overall Health Score Considerations: A Summary**

Determining an "Overall Health Score" requires considering multiple factors. Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center is the primary provider for Ogdensburg residents. For specialized care, Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown, NY, offers a wider range of services and has a CMS star rating. Canton-Potsdam Hospital, part of St. Lawrence Health, also provides a valuable option.

**Key Takeaways for Ogdensburg Residents:**

* **Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center:** Serves as the primary hospital, offering essential services. Check their website for the latest ER wait times and services.
* **Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown):** Offers a broader range of specialized services and has a CMS star rating.
* **Canton-Potsdam Hospital (St. Lawrence Health):** Provides another option for care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Monitor ER wait times at each hospital, as they can vary.
* **Telehealth:** Inquire about telehealth options at each facility to improve access to care.
* **Specialty Needs:** Consider hospitals with dedicated specialty centers for advanced care.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns. Hospital ratings and services can change; therefore, it is essential to verify information directly with the hospitals.