14526, Penfield, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14526, Penfield, New York is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14526)

The Finger Lakes region of New York, encompassing the area around Canandaigua (ZIP Code 14526), offers a surprisingly robust healthcare landscape, considering its relatively rural setting. Determining an "Overall Health Score" for the hospitals in this area requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors from CMS star ratings and ER wait times to specialty centers and telehealth accessibility. This review will delve into the key players, providing a fact-rich assessment to help residents make informed healthcare decisions.

**The Flagship: UR Medicine Thompson Health**

At the heart of healthcare in Canandaigua lies UR Medicine Thompson Health, the primary hospital serving the immediate community. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating currently, Thompson Health is a 119-bed community hospital that is a critical access hospital. Thompson Health's emergency department sees a steady flow of patients. The hospital is actively working to improve its patient satisfaction scores, which is a key factor in overall health assessment.

Thompson Health offers a wide array of services. Its emergency department is a vital resource for the community, and wait times are generally within the regional average. The hospital's commitment to providing a range of specialized services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health, is a significant strength. They have a strong reputation for their maternity services.

Telehealth is also expanding at Thompson Health. They have increased their telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists, improving access for patients who may have difficulty traveling.

**Beyond Canandaigua: Exploring Regional Options**

While Thompson Health is the local hub, residents in the 14526 ZIP code also have access to several larger hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, expanding their healthcare options. These regional facilities often provide specialized care not always available at a community hospital.

**Strong Contender: Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester)**

Located approximately 30 miles north in Rochester, UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital stands as a major healthcare provider. Strong Memorial is a large, tertiary care center and a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Rochester. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a good overall performance based on quality, safety, and patient experience.

Strong Memorial Hospital's emergency department is a high-volume facility, reflecting its role as a regional trauma center. While wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases, the hospital is committed to providing efficient and effective emergency care. They are a Level 1 Trauma Center.

Strong Memorial's specialty centers are a major draw. The hospital houses renowned programs in cardiology, oncology, neurology, and transplant services. They are also known for their advanced surgical capabilities and cutting-edge research.

Telehealth is a significant focus at Strong Memorial. They have implemented extensive telehealth programs, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online access to medical records. This commitment to telehealth enhances access to specialists and improves patient convenience.

**Another Option: Rochester General Hospital (Rochester)**

Another option in Rochester is Rochester General Hospital, part of the Rochester Regional Health system. Rochester General also has a 4-star CMS rating. This hospital is a comprehensive healthcare facility offering a wide range of services.

Rochester General's emergency department is a busy facility, and wait times are generally in line with other hospitals in the region. They have a strong focus on primary care and a well-developed network of affiliated physicians.

Rochester General has a strong reputation for its cardiac care, cancer treatment, and orthopedic services. They are also known for their commitment to community outreach and preventative care programs.

Telehealth is also a growing area at Rochester General. They offer a variety of virtual consultations and remote monitoring services to improve patient access and convenience.

**Analyzing Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in assessing hospital performance. While specific wait times fluctuate, the general trend in the region shows a commitment to efficiency. Thompson Health's ER wait times are generally in line with other community hospitals. Strong Memorial and Rochester General, being larger facilities, often have slightly longer wait times, particularly during peak hours. However, both hospitals are actively working to improve their ER processes and reduce wait times. Patients can often find real-time wait time information on hospital websites or through online tools.

**Specialty Centers: A Deeper Dive**

The availability of specialized care is another critical component of a comprehensive healthcare assessment. Strong Memorial Hospital, with its extensive network of specialty centers, offers a significant advantage. Its cardiology, oncology, and neurology programs are particularly well-regarded. Rochester General also offers robust specialty services, including cardiac care and cancer treatment. Thompson Health, while smaller, provides essential specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. All three hospitals – Thompson Health, Strong Memorial, and Rochester General – have embraced telehealth. They offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online access to medical records. This expanded access is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. The growth of telehealth reflects a broader trend in healthcare towards patient-centered care and improved access to services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

Determining a precise "Overall Health Score" is complex, as it involves weighing various factors. Based on the available data, here's a general assessment:

* **UR Medicine Thompson Health:** Serves as a critical access hospital and provides essential services to the Canandaigua community. It is a vital resource, but its limited size means residents may need to seek specialized care elsewhere.
* **UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital:** Offers a wide range of services, including specialty care, and has a good CMS rating. It is a strong choice for those seeking advanced medical care.
* **Rochester General Hospital:** Also has a good CMS rating and provides comprehensive care. It is a solid option for residents in the area.

**Making Informed Choices**

For residents in the 14526 ZIP code, the best healthcare choice depends on individual needs. For routine care and emergencies, Thompson Health is a convenient and accessible option. For specialized care, Strong Memorial and Rochester General offer a broader range of services. Patients should consider their specific medical needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences when making their healthcare decisions. Researching hospital websites, consulting with primary care physicians, and reading patient reviews can help individuals make informed choices that best suit their needs. The healthcare landscape near Canandaigua offers a variety of options, ensuring residents have access to quality care.