14604, Rochester, New York Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 14604, Rochester, New York is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near 14604 (Rochester, NY)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Rochester, NY, specifically those near the 14604 ZIP code, 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 offerings. This aims to offer a clear picture of the healthcare options available.

**Flagship Institutions: Strong Players in the Region**

The dominant healthcare providers in the 14604 vicinity are the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and its affiliated hospitals. URMC is a major academic medical center and a significant employer in the region. Strong performance in various metrics is expected.

**Strong Performance: URMC and Highland Hospital**

URMC's flagship hospital, Strong Memorial Hospital, is a large, complex facility. It consistently attracts patients with complex medical needs. Strong Memorial currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on patient experience, mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. This is a respectable score, indicating a good level of care, though there's always room for improvement.

Highland Hospital, another key component of the URMC system, also offers a comprehensive range of services. Highland, known for its focus on community health, also has a 4-star CMS rating. This indicates a similar level of overall quality to Strong Memorial, with a particular emphasis on patient-centered care.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: Wait Times and Access**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in assessing hospital performance. Patients seeking immediate care need prompt attention. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but generally, Strong Memorial Hospital tends to have longer wait times than Highland Hospital. This is likely due to the higher volume of patients and the complexity of cases handled at Strong. Information on current wait times can be found on hospital websites or through online resources.

**Specialty Centers: Depth and Breadth of Expertise**

Both Strong Memorial and Highland Hospitals boast a wide array of specialty centers. Strong Memorial is particularly well-regarded for its cardiac care, cancer treatment (Wilmot Cancer Institute), transplant services, and neurological care. These centers attract patients from a broad geographic area. Highland Hospital excels in areas like obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and behavioral health. The availability of these specialized services significantly contributes to the overall health score.

**Telehealth Integration: Modernizing Healthcare Delivery**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in the post-pandemic era. URMC has made significant investments in telehealth infrastructure. This includes virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online access to medical records. The expansion of telehealth services improves access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. This contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Beyond the Big Players: Community Hospitals and Urgent Care**

While URMC dominates the landscape, other healthcare options exist. Smaller community hospitals and urgent care centers offer alternative access points for medical care. These facilities may have shorter wait times for less serious conditions. However, they may not have the same level of specialized services as Strong Memorial or Highland.

**Considerations: Patient Experience and Outcomes**

Beyond the objective metrics, patient experience is paramount. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into how patients perceive their care. These surveys gauge factors like communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall comfort. Hospitals that consistently score well in patient satisfaction demonstrate a commitment to providing patient-centered care.

**Quality of Care: Metrics and Data**

Several metrics are used to assess the quality of care. These include:

* **Mortality Rates:** These rates, adjusted for patient severity, reflect the hospital's success in treating serious illnesses.
* **Readmission Rates:** Low readmission rates indicate effective treatment and discharge planning.
* **Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs):** These infections, contracted during a hospital stay, are a measure of patient safety.
* **Surgical Outcomes:** Success rates for specific surgical procedures are a key indicator of surgical expertise.

Hospitals are increasingly transparent in reporting these metrics, making it easier for patients to compare performance.

**Specific Services: Cancer Care and Cardiac Services**

Cancer care is a significant focus for URMC. The Wilmot Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The Institute's commitment to research and innovation enhances its overall health score. Similarly, Strong Memorial's cardiac services, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery, are a major draw for patients.

**Access to Care: Insurance and Financial Assistance**

Access to care is influenced by insurance coverage and financial assistance programs. Hospitals near 14604 typically accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. They also offer financial assistance programs for patients who are unable to pay for their care. These programs help to ensure that healthcare is accessible to all members of the community.

**Research and Innovation: A Driving Force**

URMC's commitment to research and innovation is a significant advantage. The hospital system conducts cutting-edge research in various fields, leading to advancements in treatments and technologies. This commitment to innovation enhances the overall health score.

**Impact of Location: Proximity and Transportation**

The location of hospitals relative to the 14604 ZIP code is a key factor. Proximity reduces travel time and improves access to care. Transportation options, including public transportation and readily available parking, also impact accessibility.

**Overall Health Score: Near 14604**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for hospitals near the 14604 ZIP code is **very good**. URMC, with Strong Memorial and Highland Hospital at its core, provides a comprehensive range of services, strong specialty centers, and a commitment to telehealth. The 4-star CMS ratings for both flagship hospitals are a solid indicator of quality. While ER wait times can be a concern, particularly at Strong Memorial, the depth of expertise and access to cutting-edge treatments make these hospitals strong choices. The presence of community hospitals and urgent care centers offers additional options for less serious conditions. The ongoing investment in telehealth and research further enhances the overall health score, making the Rochester area a strong healthcare market. However, it's crucial to remember that individual patient experiences can vary. Patients should research specific providers and services to ensure they meet their individual healthcare needs.