13784, Harford, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 13784, Harford, New York is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13784

The quest for quality healthcare near ZIP code 13784, encompassing the Oneonta, New York area, reveals a landscape shaped by regional healthcare networks, the accessibility of rural medicine, and the ever-evolving role of telehealth. This review assesses the available hospitals, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" perspective for residents.

**The Dominant Players: Bassett Healthcare Network**

The primary healthcare provider in the region is the Bassett Healthcare Network. This integrated system, with its flagship hospital in Cooperstown, serves as a central hub for specialized care and a network of affiliated hospitals and clinics throughout the area. The network's influence is significant, shaping the accessibility and breadth of medical services for residents near 13784.

**Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown: The Flagship**

Bassett Medical Center, located approximately 30 miles from Oneonta, is the network's central facility. It is a critical access hospital, a designation that recognizes its role in providing essential healthcare services to a rural population. As of the latest available data, Bassett Medical Center holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects a complex assessment of various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates a generally acceptable level of care, it suggests areas where improvement is possible compared to higher-rated hospitals.

Bassett Medical Center boasts several specialized centers. The **Bassett Cancer Institute** offers comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The hospital also features a robust cardiology program, a dedicated **Women's Health Center**, and a range of surgical specialties.

**Emergency Room Dynamics at Bassett Medical Center:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and accessibility. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, data indicates that wait times at Bassett Medical Center can vary. It is advisable for patients to check current wait times through online resources or by contacting the hospital directly, especially during peak hours. The hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including trauma cases.

**Affiliated Hospitals and Clinics within the Bassett Network:**

The Bassett Healthcare Network includes a network of affiliated hospitals and clinics that provide services closer to the 13784 ZIP code. These facilities play a vital role in providing primary care, outpatient services, and some specialized care.

**A.O. Fox Hospital, Oneonta: Local Access**

Located directly in Oneonta, A.O. Fox Hospital is a key facility within the Bassett network, offering a more accessible option for residents of the 13784 area. A.O. Fox Hospital is a critical access hospital, emphasizing its role in providing essential services to the community.

**Emergency Room at A.O. Fox Hospital:**

A.O. Fox Hospital also operates an emergency department, offering immediate care for urgent medical needs. While specific wait times fluctuate, residents should anticipate potential wait times and consider the severity of their condition when choosing between emergency room options.

**Specialized Services at A.O. Fox Hospital:**

A.O. Fox Hospital offers a range of services, including primary care, surgical services, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital is also equipped to handle a variety of medical conditions and provides a local option for many healthcare needs.

**Telehealth Integration within the Bassett Network:**

Bassett Healthcare Network has actively embraced telehealth to expand access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas. Telehealth services include virtual consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals. The network's telehealth platform enables patients to receive care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits and patient satisfaction rates, are valuable indicators of the program's effectiveness. These figures are subject to change.

**Other Healthcare Options: Limited, but Present**

Beyond the Bassett Healthcare Network, other healthcare options are available, albeit with limited scope.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

Other hospitals in the broader region, while not directly within the immediate vicinity of 13784, may be options for specialized care or in specific circumstances. These may include hospitals in the Binghamton or Albany areas, which are further distances but offer access to a broader range of medical specialties.

**Urgent Care Centers:**

Urgent care centers provide an alternative to emergency rooms for non-life-threatening conditions. These centers offer walk-in care for illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention but do not necessitate a visit to the emergency room. The availability of urgent care centers near 13784 can reduce wait times and provide convenient access to care.

**Mental Health Services:**

Mental health services are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals and programs near 13784 is a key consideration. The Bassett Healthcare Network and other providers offer mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care. Access to these services is essential for addressing mental health needs within the community.

**Pharmacy Access and Prescription Services:**

Access to pharmacies and prescription services is a fundamental aspect of healthcare. Numerous pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies, are located in and around Oneonta. These pharmacies provide prescription fulfillment, medication counseling, and other pharmaceutical services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for the 13784 area is a composite assessment, considering the strengths and weaknesses of the available healthcare options.

**Strengths:**

* **Integrated Healthcare Network:** The Bassett Healthcare Network provides a comprehensive and integrated system of care, offering a wide range of services from primary care to specialized treatments.
* **Local Access:** A.O. Fox Hospital provides local access to essential healthcare services, reducing travel burdens for residents.
* **Telehealth Initiatives:** The network's telehealth program expands access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.
* **Specialized Centers:** The presence of specialized centers, such as the Bassett Cancer Institute, provides access to advanced medical treatments.

**Weaknesses:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** The 3-star CMS rating for Bassett Medical Center indicates areas for potential improvement in quality and patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can fluctuate and potentially be a barrier to timely care.
* **Rural Medicine Challenges:** Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, which can impact access to care.
* **Limited Competition:** The dominance of the Bassett Healthcare Network may limit competition and patient choice.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Research and Compare:** Residents should research and compare the services offered by different healthcare providers to find the best fit for their individual needs.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Embrace telehealth options to access care conveniently, especially for routine appointments and follow-up care.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Be aware of emergency room wait times and consider urgent care centers for non-life-threatening conditions.
* **Stay Informed:** Stay informed about healthcare developments in the area, including new services, programs, and quality metrics.
* **Advocate for Improvements:** Advocate for improvements in healthcare access and quality by supporting initiatives that address the needs of the community.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 13784 is primarily shaped by the Bassett Healthcare Network, providing a comprehensive range of services. While the network offers significant advantages, including an integrated system and telehealth options, residents should be mindful of factors like CMS star ratings and potential ER wait times. By actively researching options, utilizing available resources, and advocating for improvements, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively and ensure access to quality care. The "Overall Health Score" for this area reflects a solid foundation of care with opportunities for continued improvement and expansion, particularly in patient experience and access to specialized services.