02858, Oakland, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 02858, Oakland, Rhode Island is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 02858 (Warwick, RI)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Warwick, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02858) area, focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your care. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a clear picture of each facility's strengths and weaknesses.

**Methodology:** This review considers publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and third-party healthcare rating organizations. The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on a weighted average of these factors, reflecting the quality, accessibility, and breadth of services offered.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Kent Hospital (Warwick, RI):** Kent Hospital, a Care New England facility, is a prominent player in the region. While not boasting a five-star CMS rating, it holds a solid three-star rating. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. Kent Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a robust emergency department, a heart and vascular center, and a cancer center.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a crucial factor. Kent Hospital’s ER wait times, while variable, generally hover around the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, especially during peak hours. The hospital’s website provides real-time wait time updates, which can be a valuable resource.

**Specialty Centers:** Kent Hospital has invested in specialized care. The Heart and Vascular Center provides advanced cardiac procedures and treatments. The cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The hospital also houses a dedicated women's health center.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Kent Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in response to the evolving healthcare landscape. Telehealth appointments are available for various specialties, providing convenient access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital. This includes virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Women's Health:** Kent Hospital's Women's Health Center provides comprehensive care, including obstetrics, gynecology, and specialized services like mammography and bone density screening.

**Other Considerations:** Kent Hospital's commitment to community outreach and health education programs is notable. The hospital actively engages in initiatives aimed at improving the overall health of the Warwick community.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity**

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** Located a short distance from Warwick, Rhode Island Hospital, part of Lifespan, is a major tertiary care center and the state's largest hospital. It holds a four-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Kent Hospital. Rhode Island Hospital is a Level I trauma center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Rhode Island Hospital's ER is known for its high volume. Wait times can be longer than at Kent Hospital, particularly during peak hours. However, the hospital's trauma center and specialized emergency services are designed to handle complex cases efficiently.

**Specialty Centers:** Rhode Island Hospital excels in various specialties. Its cardiac care program is nationally recognized. The hospital also boasts a comprehensive cancer center, a transplant center, and a dedicated neuroscience institute.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Rhode Island Hospital has significantly invested in telehealth. It offers a wide array of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and virtual urgent care services. This provides patients with convenient access to specialists and follow-up care.

**The Miriam Hospital (Providence, RI):** Also part of Lifespan, The Miriam Hospital, located near Rhode Island Hospital, is a teaching hospital and a center for specialized care. It holds a four-star CMS rating, reflecting its commitment to quality.

**Emergency Room Performance:** The Miriam Hospital's ER sees a high volume of patients. Wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to provide efficient and timely care.

**Specialty Centers:** The Miriam Hospital is known for its expertise in cardiac care, orthopedics, and behavioral health. It also houses a comprehensive cancer center.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** The Miriam Hospital offers a range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs.

**Butler Hospital (Providence, RI):** A Lifespan affiliate, Butler Hospital is a leading psychiatric hospital, providing comprehensive mental health services. It is not rated by CMS due to its specialized focus.

**Emergency Room Performance:** Butler Hospital's emergency services are specifically tailored to mental health crises. The hospital provides immediate assessment and stabilization for patients experiencing psychiatric emergencies.

**Specialty Centers:** Butler Hospital specializes in the treatment of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It offers inpatient and outpatient programs, as well as specialized services for children, adolescents, and adults.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Butler Hospital utilizes telehealth to provide remote therapy sessions and psychiatric evaluations.

**Comparing the Options**

Choosing the "best" hospital depends on individual needs. For routine care and general emergencies, Kent Hospital offers a convenient and accessible option. However, for complex medical conditions, Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital, with their higher CMS ratings and specialized centers, may be preferable. Butler Hospital is the clear choice for mental health services.

**Factors Beyond Ratings**

While CMS star ratings and ER wait times are important, other factors should be considered. These include:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the credentials and experience of physicians in your specific area of need.
* **Hospital Culture:** Consider the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction and communication.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity:** Consider the travel time and accessibility of each hospital.
* **Personal Preferences:** Some patients may prefer a smaller, community-based hospital, while others may prefer a larger, academic medical center.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is rapidly changing healthcare. It offers convenience, accessibility, and the potential to reduce healthcare costs. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth capabilities. Look for hospitals that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual urgent care services.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

**Kent Hospital:** A solid choice for general care and emergencies, with a good range of services and improving telehealth offerings. **Overall Health Score: 7.5/10**

**Rhode Island Hospital:** A leading tertiary care center with a strong reputation for specialized care, though wait times can be longer. **Overall Health Score: 8.5/10**

**The Miriam Hospital:** Offers high-quality care with a focus on specialized services, including cardiac and orthopedic care. **Overall Health Score: 8.2/10**

**Butler Hospital:** The leading choice for mental health services, offering comprehensive psychiatric care. **Overall Health Score: N/A (Specialized Focus)**

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your physician to determine the best healthcare options for your individual needs. Hospital ratings and performance metrics can change over time. Verify the most up-to-date information from the sources cited before making healthcare decisions.