13669, Ogdensburg, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 13669, Ogdensburg, New York is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13669 (Ogdensburg, NY)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Ogdensburg, New York (ZIP code 13669), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" based on key metrics, offering a comprehensive overview of the available options. While direct comparisons are limited by the nature of available data and the specific characteristics of each facility, this analysis aims to provide a clear picture for informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Primary Options and Considerations**

The primary hospital serving Ogdensburg is **Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center**, located directly within the city. This facility serves as the cornerstone of local healthcare, providing a range of services from emergency care to specialized treatments. Proximity is a significant advantage for residents of 13669, ensuring quick access in urgent situations.

Beyond Claxton-Hepburn, residents may consider hospitals in nearby communities, particularly in the larger cities of Watertown and Syracuse. These facilities offer a broader spectrum of specialized care, potentially including advanced treatments and access to cutting-edge technologies. However, this comes with the trade-off of increased travel time, a critical factor in emergency situations.

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

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center is the primary point of access for healthcare in Ogdensburg. It is a 116-bed facility. The hospital is a non-profit organization. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including a 24-hour emergency department, surgical services, maternity care, and various specialty clinics.

The hospital’s performance, as evaluated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is a key indicator of quality. CMS Star Ratings are a widely used metric, though it's important to understand their limitations. CMS Star Ratings are based on a complex set of data points, including patient outcomes, safety measures, and patient experience. Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center has a CMS Star Rating of 3 stars. This rating indicates that the hospital performs at an average level compared to other hospitals nationwide.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical concern for patients. Data on Claxton-Hepburn’s ED wait times can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website. These wait times can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Services at Claxton-Hepburn:**

Claxton-Hepburn provides several specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. The availability of these specialties locally reduces the need for travel to larger facilities, offering convenience for patients. The hospital has a cancer center that provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy. They also have a cardiac catheterization lab, offering advanced cardiac procedures.

**Telehealth Initiatives:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Claxton-Hepburn has implemented telehealth programs to expand access to care. Telehealth can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, specialist consultations, and mental health services, reducing the need for in-person visits and improving access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Specific details about the types of telehealth services offered and their availability can be found on the hospital’s website.

**Beyond Ogdensburg: Exploring Regional Options**

While Claxton-Hepburn is the primary local provider, residents may seek specialized care at hospitals in nearby cities. Two key regional hospitals are:

* **Crouse Hospital (Syracuse, NY):** Crouse Hospital is a large, teaching hospital located in Syracuse, approximately 100 miles from Ogdensburg. Crouse Hospital is a 3-star hospital. Crouse Hospital offers a wide range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and comprehensive cancer treatment. Crouse Hospital has a large Emergency Department and provides a high level of care.

* **Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, NY):** Samaritan Medical Center is a regional hospital located in Watertown, approximately 50 miles from Ogdensburg. Samaritan Medical Center is a 3-star hospital. Samaritan Medical Center offers a broad range of services, including a Level III Trauma Center, a comprehensive cancer center, and specialized cardiac care.

**Comparing Regional Hospitals: Key Considerations**

When considering regional hospitals, several factors should be weighed:

* **Travel Time:** The distance to Syracuse or Watertown can significantly impact access, particularly in emergencies. Travel time should be a primary consideration when choosing a hospital for urgent care.
* **Specialty Services:** Evaluate the specific needs of the patient and determine which hospital offers the necessary specialized services.
* **Patient Experience:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction at each hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the chosen hospital is within the patient's insurance network.

**CMS Star Ratings and Limitations**

CMS Star Ratings are a useful starting point for evaluating hospital quality. However, it's crucial to understand their limitations:

* **Data Collection:** The data used for CMS ratings may not always fully reflect the complexity of healthcare delivery.
* **Focus on Outcomes:** The ratings primarily focus on patient outcomes and may not fully capture the nuances of patient experience.
* **Regional Variations:** Hospital performance can vary based on regional factors, such as patient demographics and access to resources.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare options near 13669 is best understood through a layered approach:

* **Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center:** Serves as the primary access point with a 3-star CMS rating. It provides a comprehensive range of services, including a 24-hour emergency department, surgical services, maternity care, and various specialty clinics. The hospital offers the convenience of local access.
* **Regional Hospitals (Crouse Hospital and Samaritan Medical Center):** Offer a broader range of specialized services, but require longer travel times. Both hospitals have a 3-star CMS rating.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

For residents of Ogdensburg, the choice of hospital depends on individual needs and circumstances. Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center offers convenient access to a range of services. For specialized care, regional hospitals like Crouse Hospital and Samaritan Medical Center provide more advanced options.

**Before making any healthcare decisions, it is crucial to:**

* **Consult with a primary care physician:** They can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health needs.
* **Research specific services:** Explore the availability and quality of specific services at each hospital.
* **Consider travel time:** Factor in travel time, especially in emergency situations.
* **Review patient reviews:** Gain insights into the patient experience at each hospital.
* **Verify insurance coverage:** Ensure that the chosen hospital is within the patient's insurance network.

By carefully considering these factors, residents of 13669 can make informed decisions about their healthcare, ensuring access to the best possible care for their needs. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Continuous monitoring of hospital performance and services is essential for staying informed and making the most of available resources.