14516, North Rose, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14516, North Rose, New York is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14516)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. For residents near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP code 14516), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a comprehensive overview to help you make informed healthcare decisions.

**The Primary Players: UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital & Thompson Health**

The two primary hospitals serving the Canandaigua area are UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, and Thompson Health, situated in Canandaigua itself. Their performance and offerings are key to understanding the overall health score for the region.

**UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital, a flagship institution, is a major referral center for the Finger Lakes region and beyond. It boasts a comprehensive range of services and a reputation for advanced medical care. However, its location in Rochester necessitates travel for Canandaigua residents, which impacts accessibility.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Strong Memorial Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to consider the complexity of cases handled by a tertiary care center like Strong Memorial.
* **Emergency Department (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor. Strong Memorial's ER typically experiences longer wait times compared to smaller facilities. Data from recent years suggests average wait times can fluctuate, often exceeding the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Real-time wait time information is usually available on the hospital's website.
* **Specialty Centers:** Strong Memorial excels in numerous specialties. It houses a renowned cancer center, the Wilmot Cancer Institute, offering comprehensive cancer care, including advanced therapies and clinical trials. The hospital also features specialized heart care, neurological services, and a robust transplant program. Its pediatric services, including the Golisano Children's Hospital, are another significant asset.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Strong Memorial has invested heavily in telehealth. They offer a wide array of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals. Telehealth services can improve access to specialists and provide convenient follow-up care, particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas. The hospital’s telehealth platform is frequently updated with new features and expanded service lines.

**Thompson Health: Serving the Local Community**

Thompson Health, located directly in Canandaigua, offers a more localized healthcare experience. Its proximity is a significant advantage for residents seeking convenient access to care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Thompson Health has consistently received high ratings from CMS. It has a 5-star rating, a testament to its commitment to patient safety and quality. This high rating reflects positive patient outcomes, a strong focus on preventing complications, and a generally positive patient experience.
* **Emergency Department (ER) Wait Times:** Thompson Health's ER typically experiences shorter wait times compared to Strong Memorial. This is a significant advantage for patients needing immediate medical attention. The hospital’s website often provides real-time updates on current wait times.
* **Specialty Centers:** Thompson Health offers a range of specialty services. It has a well-regarded cardiac care program, providing diagnostic and treatment options for heart conditions. The hospital also features a comprehensive women's health center, offering obstetrical, gynecological, and breast health services. Their orthopedic services are also noteworthy.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Thompson Health has embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. While the scope of telehealth services may be smaller than at Strong Memorial, it still provides convenient access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The hospital is continually expanding its telehealth offerings to meet the needs of its patients.

**Other Healthcare Options and Considerations**

While Strong Memorial and Thompson Health are the primary hospitals, other healthcare providers contribute to the overall health score of the region.

* **Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers are located in and around Canandaigua. These centers provide convenient care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, often with shorter wait times than ERs. They serve as a valuable alternative for less serious medical needs.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** Access to primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and managing chronic conditions. The availability of primary care physicians in the Canandaigua area can influence the overall health of the community.
* **Specialist Availability:** The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is another important factor. While Strong Memorial offers a wide range of specialists, access to these specialists for Canandaigua residents can be affected by travel time and appointment availability.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is a growing concern. The availability of mental health professionals and resources in the Canandaigua area is an essential component of the overall health score.
* **Community Health Initiatives:** Community health initiatives, such as health education programs and preventative care campaigns, also contribute to the overall health of the region.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for the Canandaigua area (ZIP code 14516) is influenced by the strengths and weaknesses of its healthcare providers.

* **Strengths:** The presence of a highly-rated community hospital (Thompson Health) is a major strength. Its convenient location, short ER wait times, and strong CMS rating contribute significantly to a positive overall health score. The availability of a regional powerhouse like Strong Memorial, with its advanced specialty services, provides access to a wide range of complex medical care. The growing investment in telehealth by both hospitals enhances access to care.
* **Weaknesses:** The longer ER wait times at Strong Memorial can be a concern. The need for travel to Rochester for certain services can be a barrier for some residents. The availability of specialists and mental health services may be a challenge, depending on individual needs.
* **Overall Score:** Taking all factors into account, the overall health score for the Canandaigua area is **Good**. The presence of a high-quality local hospital, combined with access to a major regional medical center, creates a strong foundation for healthcare. The ongoing investment in telehealth and the presence of urgent care centers further enhance the accessibility and quality of care. However, residents should be mindful of potential wait times at Strong Memorial and consider their individual needs when choosing a healthcare provider. The score is expected to improve as telehealth offerings expand and as both hospitals continue to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape.

**Recommendations for Residents**

* **Choose a primary care physician:** Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is essential for preventative care and managing chronic conditions.
* **Consider ER wait times:** Be aware of potential wait times at Strong Memorial's ER and consider urgent care centers for non-life-threatening conditions.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Utilize telehealth services for convenient consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Research specialty needs:** If you require specialized care, research the availability of specialists and the services offered by both hospitals.
* **Stay informed:** Regularly check hospital websites for updates on wait times, services, and telehealth offerings.
* **Advocate for your health:** Be proactive in your healthcare, ask questions, and communicate your needs to your healthcare providers.