14450, Fairport, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14450, Fairport, New York is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14450)

The Finger Lakes region of New York, encompassing the area around Canandaigua (ZIP Code 14450), offers a diverse landscape of healthcare options. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, accessibility, specialty care availability, and the evolving landscape of telehealth. We will delve into the specifics, providing a fact-rich overview to help residents make informed healthcare decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in this region is Strong Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, approximately 30 miles north of Canandaigua. Strong Memorial, a flagship facility of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), consistently ranks high in national surveys. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

While CMS star ratings are a valuable benchmark, it's crucial to understand their limitations. They represent a snapshot in time and don't capture the nuances of individual patient experiences. However, a 4-star rating indicates Strong Memorial generally performs well compared to other hospitals nationwide.

Another significant hospital in the region is Highland Hospital, also part of URMC and located in Rochester. Highland is a 3-star rated hospital by CMS. It has a strong reputation for its specialty services, particularly in behavioral health and obstetrics.

**Emergency Room Performance: Wait Times and Accessibility:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. While specific wait times fluctuate, the general trend suggests that Strong Memorial typically experiences higher ER volumes, potentially leading to longer wait times compared to smaller facilities. Data from the Hospital Compare website (CMS) provides some insight, but real-time wait times can vary significantly depending on the day, time, and severity of the patient's condition.

For residents of 14450, the proximity of several urgent care centers offers an alternative for non-life-threatening conditions. These facilities can often provide quicker access to care, alleviating some of the pressure on hospital ERs. However, it's essential to recognize that urgent care centers may not have the same resources or specialized equipment as a full-service hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical care is a crucial factor in assessing overall health. Strong Memorial Hospital boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including:

* **The Wilmot Cancer Institute:** This nationally recognized cancer center provides advanced cancer treatment, research, and support services.
* **The Golisano Children's Hospital:** This dedicated children's hospital offers specialized pediatric care across a wide spectrum of medical needs.
* **Cardiac and Vascular Services:** Strong Memorial has a robust cardiac program, including advanced interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery.
* **Neurology and Neurosurgery:** The hospital provides comprehensive neurological care, including treatment for stroke, epilepsy, and other neurological conditions.

Highland Hospital, while smaller, excels in specific areas, including:

* **Behavioral Health:** Highland has a strong reputation for its behavioral health services, including inpatient and outpatient mental health care.
* **Obstetrics and Gynecology:** The hospital offers comprehensive women's health services, including labor and delivery.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like the Finger Lakes. URMC has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, providing remote consultations, virtual follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for residents of 14450, as it reduces the need for travel to Rochester for certain appointments.

Telehealth services are available across several specialties, including primary care, cardiology, and mental health. The availability of these services can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

**Local Hospitals and Alternatives:**

While Strong Memorial and Highland Hospital are the primary referral centers, residents of 14450 have access to other healthcare options. Thompson Health, located in Canandaigua, offers a range of services, including primary care, specialty clinics, and a community hospital. While Thompson Health is not a flagship hospital, it provides essential healthcare services locally.

**Quality of Care and Patient Experience:**

Assessing the quality of care goes beyond CMS star ratings. Patient experience plays a crucial role. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), offer insights into patient perceptions of care. These surveys evaluate factors such as communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the overall hospital environment.

While these surveys provide valuable feedback, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary. Online reviews and testimonials can also provide additional perspectives, but it's essential to consider the source and potential biases.

**Cost of Care and Insurance Coverage:**

The cost of healthcare is a significant concern for many individuals. Healthcare costs can vary depending on the type of care, the hospital, and the patient's insurance coverage. It's essential to understand your insurance plan's coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles and co-pays.

Hospitals are required to provide information about their pricing, but navigating the complexities of medical billing can be challenging. Patients are encouraged to inquire about the cost of services before receiving care and to review their bills carefully.

**Community Health and Wellness Initiatives:**

Beyond hospital services, the overall health of a community is influenced by factors like access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and social support networks. The Finger Lakes region has various community health initiatives aimed at promoting wellness and preventing disease. These initiatives may include:

* **Public health programs:** The Ontario County Public Health Department offers a range of services, including immunizations, health education, and disease prevention programs.
* **Community health centers:** These centers provide affordable healthcare services to underserved populations.
* **Wellness programs:** Local organizations offer programs promoting healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes and nutrition workshops.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The healthcare landscape near Canandaigua (14450) presents a mixed picture. Residents have access to high-quality care at Strong Memorial Hospital, a flagship facility with a 4-star CMS rating. However, the proximity of several hospitals and urgent care facilities offers options.

**Strengths:**

* **Access to Specialized Care:** Strong Memorial Hospital provides comprehensive specialty services, including cancer treatment, pediatric care, and cardiac services.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** URMC's telehealth initiatives improve access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas.
* **Local Healthcare Options:** Thompson Health offers essential healthcare services locally, reducing the need for travel.
* **Community Health Initiatives:** Various community programs promote wellness and disease prevention.

**Weaknesses:**

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Strong Memorial can be longer due to high patient volumes.
* **Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs can be a significant burden for some individuals.
* **Limited Local Specialty Services:** Residents may need to travel to Rochester for certain specialized treatments.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Insurance Coverage:** Understand your insurance plan's coverage and out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Utilize telehealth services for convenient access to care.
* **Consider Urgent Care Centers:** Utilize urgent care centers for non-life-threatening conditions to reduce ER wait times.
* **Inquire About Costs:** Ask about the cost of services before receiving care.
* **Stay Informed:** Stay informed about local health initiatives and community resources.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for the area near Canandaigua (14450) is positive, with access to high-quality hospital care and a growing emphasis on telehealth. However, residents should be aware of potential challenges, such as ER wait times and healthcare costs. By understanding the available resources, researching their healthcare options, and actively participating in their health, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively and make informed decisions about their well-being.