14539, Retsof, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14539, Retsof, New York is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14539)

The Finger Lakes region of New York State, encompassing the area around Canandaigua (ZIP Code 14539), offers a range of healthcare options, from large, regional referral centers to smaller community hospitals and specialized clinics. Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors like hospital quality ratings, emergency room wait times, the availability of specialized services, telehealth capabilities, and overall accessibility. This review provides a detailed assessment of the healthcare landscape, focusing on the most relevant hospitals and their performance indicators.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare in the region is Strong Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, approximately 30 miles northwest of Canandaigua. Strong Memorial, part of the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), is a major teaching hospital and regional referral center. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation. Strong Memorial boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. URMC also includes Highland Hospital, also in Rochester, which has a 3-star CMS rating.

Another significant player is Thompson Health, located in Canandaigua itself. Thompson Health operates a 115-bed acute care hospital, offering a comprehensive range of services. While Thompson Health doesn't have a CMS star rating, it is recognized for its commitment to patient-centered care and community involvement.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, data from sources like ProPublica and hospital websites provide insights. Strong Memorial Hospital, due to its high patient volume, often experiences longer wait times than smaller facilities. Patients needing immediate care should be prepared for potential delays. Thompson Health, being a smaller facility, generally reports shorter ER wait times. However, it is important to remember that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. Checking hospital websites or using online tools to estimate wait times is recommended before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized services is a critical factor in determining the overall health score. Strong Memorial Hospital, as a major referral center, excels in this area. It houses numerous specialty centers, including the Wilmot Cancer Institute, the Eastman Institute for Oral Health, and specialized cardiac and neurological care units. This allows patients in the Canandaigua area access to advanced treatments and expertise without needing to travel long distances.

Thompson Health offers a range of specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health services. The hospital's Sands Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. This local access to cancer care is a significant advantage for residents of Canandaigua and surrounding communities.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. URMC has been a leader in telehealth initiatives, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other digital health services. These programs increase access to specialists and reduce the need for in-person visits, which is especially beneficial for patients in the Canandaigua area who may face transportation challenges. Thompson Health also offers telehealth services, expanding access to care for its patients. The availability of telehealth options is a positive factor in the overall health score, reflecting the hospitals' commitment to leveraging technology to improve patient care.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience:**

Accessibility encompasses factors like geographic proximity, insurance acceptance, and ease of navigating the healthcare system. Both Strong Memorial and Thompson Health accept a wide range of insurance plans, making them accessible to a broad population. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Strong Memorial, being a large teaching hospital, may sometimes receive mixed reviews regarding patient satisfaction. Thompson Health, with its focus on community-based care, often receives positive feedback for its patient-centered approach.

**Other Important Considerations:**

Beyond the major hospitals, the Canandaigua area benefits from a network of primary care physicians, specialists, and outpatient clinics. These facilities provide essential services, contributing to the overall health of the community. The quality of these ancillary services also influences the overall health score.

**Specific Considerations for 14539:**

Residents of Canandaigua (ZIP Code 14539) are fortunate to have access to both a major regional referral center (Strong Memorial) and a local community hospital (Thompson Health). This provides a good balance of specialized care and convenient access. The proximity to Rochester offers additional options for specialized care and advanced treatments.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for the Canandaigua area is considered good. The presence of Strong Memorial Hospital, with its high CMS rating and extensive specialty services, is a major asset. The availability of Thompson Health, offering local access to essential care, further enhances the score. The growing telehealth capabilities and the network of supporting healthcare providers contribute positively. While ER wait times at Strong Memorial can be a concern, the overall access to quality healthcare is strong.

**Recommendations:**

Patients in the 14539 area should consider the following when choosing healthcare providers:

* **For specialized care:** Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester offers a wide range of advanced services.
* **For local access and convenience:** Thompson Health in Canandaigua provides a comprehensive range of services close to home.
* **For emergency care:** Assess wait times at both Strong Memorial and Thompson Health, considering the severity of the condition.
* **Utilize telehealth options:** Explore virtual consultations and remote monitoring services offered by both hospitals.
* **Research patient reviews:** Consult online resources to gain insights into patient experiences at different facilities.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Canandaigua, NY (ZIP Code 14539) offers a robust and accessible system. The combination of a major regional hospital, a local community hospital, and a growing telehealth infrastructure provides residents with a good level of healthcare access and quality. The overall health score for the area is positive, reflecting the commitment of healthcare providers to serving the community's needs. However, patients should always research and choose the healthcare options that best suit their individual needs and circumstances.