13696, West Stockholm, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 13696, West Stockholm, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13696 (Ogdensburg, NY)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. This review offers a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Ogdensburg, NY area (ZIP code 13696), providing specific data points to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We'll delve into key factors, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, offering a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of each facility.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, High Stakes**

The healthcare options directly within Ogdensburg are limited. Residents often rely on a primary hospital, with access to larger facilities in surrounding areas. This review focuses on the most relevant options for individuals residing in the 13696 ZIP code, recognizing the importance of proximity and accessibility.

**Primary Contender: Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center (Ogdensburg, NY)**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center (CHMC) is the primary hospital serving Ogdensburg and the surrounding communities. It’s a critical access hospital, meaning it receives specific financial support from the federal government due to its rural location and limited resources.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall performance based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. A 3-star rating indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor for many patients. While specific real-time data fluctuates, CHMC's ER wait times are generally in line with the national average for similar-sized hospitals. Expect to spend approximately 30-60 minutes in the waiting room before being seen by a medical professional, but this can vary greatly depending on the time of day and the severity of patient needs.
* **Specialty Centers:** CHMC offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital has a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab and a surgical suite. They also have a comprehensive cancer care program.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Claxton-Hepburn has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, particularly for specialist consultations and follow-up appointments. This is especially important for residents in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling to see specialists. Telehealth services are available for various specialties, including behavioral health and cardiology.
* **Overall Health Score (CHMC):** Considering its role as a critical access hospital and its 3-star CMS rating, Claxton-Hepburn provides essential healthcare services to the Ogdensburg community. While the CMS rating indicates average performance, the hospital’s commitment to expanding telehealth and providing core specialty services is noteworthy. However, patients seeking highly specialized care or facing complex medical issues may need to consider options outside of Ogdensburg.

**Beyond Ogdensburg: Exploring Regional Options**

For more specialized care or in cases where Claxton-Hepburn may not fully meet a patient's needs, residents of the 13696 ZIP code often seek care at hospitals located further afield.

**Option 1: Canton-Potsdam Hospital (Potsdam, NY)**

Located approximately 30 minutes from Ogdensburg, Canton-Potsdam Hospital (CPH) provides a broader range of services than CHMC.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CPH currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating above-average performance. This higher rating suggests stronger performance in areas like patient outcomes and safety compared to CHMC.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CPH are generally comparable to or slightly shorter than those at CHMC. Real-time data should be consulted for the most accurate information.
* **Specialty Centers:** CPH boasts a more extensive array of specialty services, including a comprehensive stroke center, a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU), and a broader range of surgical options. They also have a robust obstetrics and gynecology department.
* **Telehealth Availability:** CPH offers a robust telehealth program, providing access to specialists and virtual consultations. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who require specialized care.
* **Overall Health Score (CPH):** CPH offers a significant step up in terms of quality and breadth of services compared to CHMC. The 4-star CMS rating, combined with its expanded specialty offerings and robust telehealth program, makes it a strong option for residents of the 13696 ZIP code seeking a higher level of care.

**Option 2: River Hospital (Alexandria Bay, NY)**

Located approximately 45 minutes from Ogdensburg, River Hospital is a critical access hospital that serves the Thousand Islands region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** River Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are generally in line with the national average for similar-sized hospitals.
* **Specialty Centers:** River Hospital offers a range of services, including primary care, cardiology, and surgical services.
* **Telehealth Availability:** River Hospital provides telehealth services.
* **Overall Health Score (River Hospital):** River Hospital is a good option for residents in the Thousand Islands region.

**Option 3: Upstate University Hospital (Syracuse, NY)**

For highly specialized care, residents of the 13696 ZIP code may travel to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, NY, approximately a 2-hour drive.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Upstate University Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are generally longer than those at the closer hospitals.
* **Specialty Centers:** Upstate University Hospital is a tertiary care center with a wide array of specialty services, including transplant services, a Level 1 trauma center, and comprehensive cancer care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Upstate University Hospital offers extensive telehealth services.
* **Overall Health Score (Upstate University Hospital):** Upstate University Hospital is a good option for complex medical needs, but it's not a good option for routine care.

**Key Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

* **Severity of Illness:** For minor ailments, Claxton-Hepburn may suffice. For more serious conditions, Canton-Potsdam or Upstate University Hospital may be better choices.
* **Specialty Needs:** Consider the availability of specialists and specialized services. If you need a cardiologist, for example, check the cardiology department at each hospital.
* **Travel Distance:** Consider the travel time and ease of access, especially in emergencies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Research patient reviews and experiences online. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable insights.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments and consultations, especially for residents in rural areas.

**Final Assessment: A Balanced Perspective**

The healthcare landscape near Ogdensburg, NY, offers a spectrum of options. Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center provides essential services as a critical access hospital, while Canton-Potsdam Hospital offers a broader range of specialties and a higher CMS rating. For highly specialized care, Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse is a viable option, though it requires a longer travel time.

Residents of the 13696 ZIP code should carefully weigh their individual healthcare needs, considering factors like the severity of their condition, the availability of specialists, and the convenience of location. By utilizing the information provided in this review, individuals can make informed decisions and navigate the healthcare system with greater confidence. Remember to always consult with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action for your specific health concerns.