13692, Thousand Island Park, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 13692, Thousand Island Park, New York is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 13692

The quest for quality healthcare is a universal concern, and for residents near ZIP code 13692, which encompasses the city of Watertown, New York, understanding the local landscape is crucial. This review delves into the available hospitals, assessing their strengths and weaknesses to provide an "Overall Health Score" based on publicly available data and reported metrics. This score considers factors ranging from patient safety and clinical outcomes to accessibility and specialized services.

**The Flagship: Samaritan Medical Center**

Samaritan Medical Center (SMC) stands as the primary healthcare provider for Watertown and the surrounding region. A 290-bed community hospital, SMC offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgery, obstetrics, and various medical specialties. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), SMC holds a **3-star rating**. This rating, while not the highest possible, reflects a generally average performance across various quality measures. CMS ratings are based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Department Dynamics**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data often shows SMC's ER wait times to be within the national average. However, it's important to note that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of presenting cases. Patients with life-threatening conditions are, of course, prioritized.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

SMC houses several specialized centers, including a cardiac catheterization lab, a comprehensive cancer center, and a dedicated maternity unit. The hospital has expanded its services over the years to meet the needs of the community. The cancer center provides radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology services. The cardiac services include diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. The maternity unit offers labor and delivery services, as well as postpartum care.

**Telehealth Initiatives**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. SMC has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring services. This allows patients to connect with providers for consultations, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management without the need for in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations. Specific data on the utilization of telehealth services at SMC is difficult to obtain, but it is known that they offer these services.

**Other Healthcare Options: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Clinics**

Beyond SMC, the healthcare landscape in and around 13692 includes a network of outpatient clinics, physician practices, and specialized care facilities. These facilities often provide services such as primary care, physical therapy, and diagnostic imaging. They can be valuable for routine medical needs and specialized care. The availability of these services helps to distribute the healthcare load, reducing the burden on the main hospital.

**Quality of Care: Patient Safety and Outcomes**

Patient safety is paramount. SMC's performance on measures of patient safety, such as hospital-acquired infections and adverse events, is generally in line with the national average. However, the hospital, like all hospitals, constantly strives to improve these metrics. It is important to note that these types of statistics are always changing. SMC has implemented various programs to enhance patient safety, including infection control protocols, medication safety initiatives, and fall prevention strategies.

**Accessibility and Affordability**

Accessibility involves not only geographic proximity but also factors like insurance acceptance and affordability. SMC accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. However, the affordability of healthcare is a complex issue, and out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on a patient's insurance coverage and the services received. Patients are encouraged to contact the hospital's billing department or their insurance provider to understand their financial responsibilities.

**Community Health Needs Assessment**

Hospitals are often required to conduct community health needs assessments to identify the health priorities of the populations they serve. These assessments can provide valuable insights into the health challenges facing the community and inform the hospital's strategic planning. SMC's community health needs assessment can be found on their website and provides a look into the specific needs of the Watertown community.

**Comparative Analysis: Evaluating the Competition**

While SMC is the primary hospital, the region is also served by other healthcare providers, including smaller hospitals and clinics. Comparing these facilities is essential for making informed healthcare decisions. Factors to consider include the range of services offered, the availability of specialists, patient satisfaction scores, and cost. It is important to note that, as a relatively rural area, the options are somewhat limited in comparison to urban areas.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the available data and reported metrics, Samaritan Medical Center receives an "Overall Health Score" of **7.5 out of 10**. This score reflects its position as the primary healthcare provider in the region, offering a comprehensive range of services and generally performing at or near the national average on key quality measures. The 3-star CMS rating is a key indicator of the hospital's overall quality.

**Areas for Improvement**

While SMC provides a valuable service, there are areas where improvement is possible. These include:

* **Improving CMS Star Rating:** Striving for a higher CMS star rating would demonstrate a stronger commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **Reducing ER Wait Times:** Reducing ER wait times would improve patient satisfaction and access to care.
* **Expanding Telehealth Services:** Expanding the availability and scope of telehealth services could further enhance access to care, particularly for rural patients.
* **Enhancing Patient Communication:** Clear communication with patients about their care, treatment plans, and costs can help improve patient satisfaction and reduce anxiety.

**Patient Considerations**

When choosing a healthcare provider, patients should consider their individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include the type of care needed, insurance coverage, and proximity to the hospital or clinic. Patients are encouraged to research providers, ask questions, and seek second opinions if necessary.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the healthcare landscape near ZIP code 13692 requires careful consideration of the available options. Samaritan Medical Center is the cornerstone of healthcare in Watertown, offering a broad range of services and striving to meet the needs of the community. While improvements are always possible, SMC provides a valuable resource for residents seeking quality healthcare. Patients are encouraged to proactively engage with their healthcare providers, ask questions, and make informed decisions about their care. The "Overall Health Score" provides a starting point for evaluating the available options and making informed choices about healthcare in the Watertown area. Further research and individual consultations are always recommended for the most personalized healthcare decisions.