14425, Farmington, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14425, Farmington, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14425)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Canandaigua, NY (14425) area, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to empower informed decision-making for residents seeking the best possible care.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Canandaigua offers a concentrated healthcare network, primarily dominated by two major players: UR Medicine Thompson Health and Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. While other smaller facilities exist, these two institutions represent the core of accessible, comprehensive care for the region. Proximity is a crucial factor, with Thompson Health located directly in Canandaigua and Strong Memorial Hospital requiring a drive of approximately 45 minutes.

**UR Medicine Thompson Health: A Community Focus**

UR Medicine Thompson Health, a cornerstone of the Canandaigua community, operates a 115-bed hospital. Its primary focus is on providing a broad range of services to the local population. The hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission, a widely recognized standard for healthcare quality and safety. Thompson Health is not currently assigned a star rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This doesn't necessarily indicate poor performance but reflects the CMS methodology, which may not include all hospitals.

**Thompson Health: Specialized Services**

Thompson Health offers a variety of specialized services, including a cardiac rehabilitation program, a comprehensive cancer center, and a dedicated women's health center. They provide surgical services, including minimally invasive procedures. The hospital also maintains a modern emergency department (ED).

**Thompson Health: Emergency Room Dynamics**

Emergency room wait times at Thompson Health are a crucial metric for patient experience. Data on average wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to consult real-time data sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms that track ER wait times. These platforms offer valuable insights into current wait times, allowing patients to anticipate and plan accordingly.

**Thompson Health: Telehealth Initiatives**

Telehealth is increasingly important, and Thompson Health has embraced it. The hospital offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, including behavioral health and chronic disease management. This allows patients to access care remotely, improving convenience and access, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Specific details on available telehealth services and platforms are readily available on the hospital's website.

**Strong Memorial Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

Strong Memorial Hospital, part of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), is a major tertiary care center located in Rochester, NY. It's a large, complex institution offering a comprehensive range of medical services and is a regional referral center. Strong Memorial Hospital boasts a 4-star rating from CMS, a testament to its performance on various quality metrics.

**Strong Memorial: CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators**

The CMS star rating is a valuable tool for assessing hospital quality. A 4-star rating indicates that Strong Memorial Hospital performs well compared to national averages on measures like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. The CMS website provides detailed information on the specific metrics used to calculate the star rating, allowing for a deeper understanding of the hospital's strengths and areas for improvement.

**Strong Memorial: Specialized Centers and Expertise**

Strong Memorial Hospital is renowned for its specialized centers and expertise. It houses a Level I Trauma Center, a comprehensive cancer center (Wilmot Cancer Institute), a heart and vascular center, and a transplant program. The hospital also has a strong presence in research and medical education, contributing to advancements in healthcare.

**Strong Memorial: Emergency Room Considerations**

Due to its size and complexity, Strong Memorial Hospital's emergency room can experience longer wait times, especially during peak hours. As with Thompson Health, it's essential to consult real-time data sources to assess current wait times. The hospital's website and third-party platforms provide this information.

**Strong Memorial: Telehealth Integration**

Strong Memorial Hospital has a robust telehealth program, leveraging its advanced infrastructure and expertise. Telehealth services are offered across numerous specialties, including cardiology, neurology, and mental health. This allows patients to access specialists and receive care remotely, improving access and convenience.

**Comparing the Options: Key Considerations**

When evaluating hospitals near Canandaigua, several factors should be considered. Proximity is a significant advantage of Thompson Health. The convenience of a local hospital is essential for routine care and emergencies. However, for complex medical needs, Strong Memorial Hospital's specialized expertise and comprehensive services may be preferable, even with the longer travel time.

**Patient Experience: A Critical Element**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. Both hospitals prioritize patient satisfaction. Patient reviews, available on platforms like Healthgrades and the hospital's websites, offer valuable insights into the experiences of other patients. Reviews can highlight strengths and weaknesses in areas like communication, responsiveness, and overall care.

**Access to Specialists: A Vital Factor**

Access to specialists is a critical consideration, particularly for patients with chronic conditions or complex medical needs. Strong Memorial Hospital, as a regional referral center, offers a wider range of specialists than Thompson Health. However, Thompson Health has a network of specialists through its affiliation with UR Medicine, providing access to a broader range of expertise.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

The cost of care and insurance coverage are essential factors in healthcare decisions. Both hospitals accept a wide range of insurance plans. Patients should verify their coverage with their insurance provider before receiving care. The hospital's billing departments can provide information on estimated costs and payment options.

**Community Health Initiatives**

Both Thompson Health and Strong Memorial Hospital are involved in community health initiatives, such as health education programs and outreach services. These initiatives contribute to improving the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

**UR Medicine Thompson Health:** Offers convenient, local care with a range of services, including a modern ED and telehealth options. While not currently CMS-rated, it provides quality care within the community. ER wait times should be checked in real time.

**Strong Memorial Hospital:** A regional powerhouse with a 4-star CMS rating, offering comprehensive specialized services and a robust telehealth program. Requires travel, but provides access to a wider range of specialists and complex care. ER wait times should be checked in real time.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital requires careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances. For routine care and emergencies, UR Medicine Thompson Health provides convenient, local access. For complex medical needs or specialized care, Strong Memorial Hospital offers comprehensive expertise and a wider range of services. By considering the factors discussed in this review – proximity, quality ratings, specialized services, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, patient experience, and cost – residents of the 14425 ZIP code can make informed decisions that best meet their healthcare needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and to discuss any specific health concerns.