14427, Castile, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14427, Castile, New York is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14427)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex labyrinth. For residents of Canandaigua, New York (ZIP Code 14427), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability for the most relevant healthcare providers in the region. This analysis aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health needs.

**Defining the Scope:** This review focuses on hospitals readily accessible to residents of 14427, considering both proximity and referral patterns. Key facilities evaluated include those in the immediate vicinity and those within a reasonable driving distance, often serving as referral centers for specialized care.

**The Role of CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital quality. These ratings, based on a variety of metrics, provide a comparative framework for evaluating hospital performance. It's crucial to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle, and should be considered alongside other factors.

**UR Medicine Thompson Health (Canandaigua, NY):** Located directly in Canandaigua, UR Medicine Thompson Health is a cornerstone of local healthcare. While the CMS does not provide a star rating for Thompson Health, the hospital is a critical access hospital, meaning it meets specific criteria designed to serve rural communities. Thompson Health offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized clinics.

**Emergency Room Dynamics:** ER wait times are a significant concern for anyone needing immediate medical attention. Thompson Health's ER wait times, while fluctuating, are generally in line with regional averages. Accessing real-time wait time information is crucial and can often be found on the hospital's website or through third-party apps.

**Specialized Services at Thompson Health:** Thompson Health boasts a variety of specialized services, including a cardiac rehabilitation program, a comprehensive cancer center, and a dedicated women's health center. The hospital's commitment to these specialized areas enhances its ability to meet the diverse needs of the community.

**Telehealth Integration:** Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for rural communities. Thompson Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

**Stronger Consideration: UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NY):** Approximately 30 miles from Canandaigua, UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester is a major regional referral center. This is a flagship hospital. Strong Memorial is a large, academic medical center, offering a broad spectrum of advanced medical services.

**Strong Memorial's CMS Star Rating:** Strong Memorial Hospital holds a respectable CMS star rating. While ratings can change, this provides a valuable point of comparison. It is a testament to the hospital's commitment to quality and patient safety.

**ER Wait Times at Strong Memorial:** Due to its high patient volume, Strong Memorial's ER wait times can be longer than those at smaller hospitals. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak hours. Real-time wait time information is available online, enabling patients to make informed decisions.

**Specialized Centers at Strong Memorial:** Strong Memorial houses numerous specialized centers, including the Wilmot Cancer Institute, the Golisano Children's Hospital, and a renowned transplant center. These centers attract patients from across the region and beyond, offering cutting-edge treatments and expertise.

**Telehealth Capabilities at Strong Memorial:** As a leading academic medical center, Strong Memorial has a robust telehealth program. Patients can access virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring services, and online support groups. This expanded telehealth capacity enhances access to care and improves patient outcomes.

**Consideration: Rochester General Hospital (Rochester, NY):** Another major hospital in Rochester, Rochester General Hospital, offers a slightly different focus than Strong Memorial. It is part of the Rochester Regional Health system.

**Rochester General's CMS Star Rating:** Rochester General Hospital also has a CMS star rating, providing another data point for comparison. The rating is a reflection of the hospital's performance across a range of quality metrics.

**ER Wait Times at Rochester General:** ER wait times at Rochester General Hospital are typically similar to those at Strong Memorial. Patients should anticipate potential delays, and checking real-time wait times before arriving is advisable.

**Specialized Services at Rochester General:** Rochester General offers a wide array of specialized services, including a comprehensive stroke center, a cardiac care program, and a behavioral health unit. The hospital’s commitment to these specialized areas ensures that patients have access to the care they need.

**Telehealth Integration at Rochester General:** Rochester General has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. These telehealth services improve access to care and support patients in managing their health.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers:** Several smaller hospitals and urgent care centers are located within a reasonable driving distance of Canandaigua. These facilities often provide more immediate care for less severe conditions.

**Urgent Care Options:** For non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, urgent care centers offer a convenient alternative to the ER. These centers typically have shorter wait times and are often open during evenings and weekends.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

* **UR Medicine Thompson Health (Canandaigua):** Serves as a vital local resource, offering a range of services and convenient access. Lacks a CMS star rating, but its local presence and specialized clinics are valuable.
* **UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester):** A major referral center with a respectable CMS star rating and extensive specialized services. Longer ER wait times are a potential drawback.
* **Rochester General Hospital (Rochester):** Another strong option with a CMS star rating and a range of specialized services. Similar ER wait time considerations as Strong Memorial.
* **Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers:** Provide additional options for care, particularly for less severe conditions.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Severity of Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies, the nearest ER is the priority. For less urgent needs, consider wait times and the availability of specialized services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Specialized Needs:** If you require specialized care, research the specific services offered by each hospital.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Online reviews and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.
* **Telehealth Availability:** If telehealth is important to you, check the hospital's telehealth offerings.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Canandaigua, NY (14427) offers a range of options, from local hospitals to major regional referral centers. UR Medicine Thompson Health provides essential local care, while UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital and Rochester General Hospital offer advanced specialized services. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when making healthcare decisions. By researching available options and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, residents can make informed choices that support their overall health and well-being. The "Overall Health Score" is not a definitive ranking, but rather a guide to help navigate the complexities of the healthcare system in the region.