02916, Rumford, Rhode Island Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 02916, Rumford, Rhode Island is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 02916 (Providence, RI)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can feel overwhelming. For residents of Providence, Rhode Island, particularly those in the 02916 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, telehealth availability, and more. The goal is to offer a clear, fact-based overview to aid informed healthcare decisions.

**The Big Players: Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital**

The dominant players in the Providence hospital scene are Rhode Island Hospital and Women & Infants Hospital, both part of the Lifespan health system. These institutions serve as regional hubs, offering a wide range of services and attracting patients from across the state and beyond.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** This flagship hospital holds a significant presence in the area. While its CMS star rating fluctuates, it's important to note that as of late 2023, the hospital received a 3-star rating. This rating reflects a complex evaluation of various aspects of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Rhode Island Hospital boasts a Level I Trauma Center, a critical resource for handling severe injuries and emergencies. The hospital's emergency room, however, can experience varying wait times. While specific real-time data fluctuates, patients should anticipate potential delays, particularly during peak hours. Rhode Island Hospital's specialty centers are extensive, covering areas such as cardiology, oncology (including the comprehensive cancer center), and neurology. Telehealth services are also available, offering patients virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital's website and patient portals provide detailed information on these services and how to access them.

**Women & Infants Hospital:** As the name suggests, this hospital focuses on women's health and specializes in obstetrics, gynecology, and newborn care. While it does not receive a CMS star rating due to its specialized focus, its reputation for excellence in women's health is well-established. Women & Infants Hospital is a leading provider of maternal-fetal medicine, offering advanced care for high-risk pregnancies. The hospital's neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is also a critical resource for premature and critically ill newborns. Telehealth services are available for certain appointments, offering convenience for patients. ER wait times at Women & Infants are typically lower than at Rhode Island Hospital, reflecting the specialized nature of its emergency services.

**Other Notable Hospitals in the Area**

Beyond the Lifespan system, other hospitals contribute to the healthcare landscape near 02916.

**Miriam Hospital:** Also part of the Lifespan system, Miriam Hospital is another important player. Miriam Hospital received a 4-star rating from CMS. It is known for its strong programs in cardiology, orthopedics, and behavioral health. The hospital's emergency room generally experiences wait times that are comparable to Rhode Island Hospital. Miriam Hospital actively utilizes telehealth, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring options for patients.

**Butler Hospital:** This psychiatric hospital is a specialized facility within the Care New England health system. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating, Butler Hospital plays a crucial role in providing mental health services to the community. It offers inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care, as well as specialized programs for various mental health conditions. Telehealth options are available for some appointments.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a significant factor for many patients. While specific wait times fluctuate constantly, understanding general trends is essential. As mentioned, Rhode Island Hospital's ER often experiences longer wait times, especially during peak hours. Miriam Hospital's ER typically has shorter wait times, but this can vary. Women & Infants Hospital's ER wait times are usually shorter than those at Rhode Island Hospital. Patients should always check real-time wait time data available on hospital websites or through online platforms before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The hospitals near 02916 offer a diverse range of specialty centers. Rhode Island Hospital's comprehensive cancer center provides advanced cancer treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The hospital also has specialized centers for cardiology, neurology, and other medical specialties. Women & Infants Hospital excels in women's health, offering specialized services in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive endocrinology. Miriam Hospital's cardiology program is particularly well-regarded. Butler Hospital provides specialized care for mental health conditions.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly in recent years. All the major hospitals near 02916 offer telehealth options to varying degrees. Rhode Island Hospital, Miriam Hospital, and Women & Infants Hospital provide virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. Butler Hospital also utilizes telehealth for some of its mental health services. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those seeking convenient follow-up appointments.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

Determining an "Overall Health Score" is complex and subjective. It requires weighing various factors, including CMS star ratings (where applicable), ER wait times, specialty center availability, and telehealth options.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** While its CMS star rating is currently at 3 stars, its status as a Level I Trauma Center and its comprehensive specialty centers are significant strengths. However, longer ER wait times are a potential drawback.

**Women & Infants Hospital:** Its focus on women's health and newborn care, along with shorter ER wait times, makes it a strong choice for specific needs.

**Miriam Hospital:** Its 4-star rating from CMS, combined with its specialty programs and telehealth offerings, makes it a solid option.

**Butler Hospital:** Its specialized focus on mental health services makes it an essential resource for the community.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Beyond the objective metrics, patient experience and satisfaction are crucial. Reviews from other patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience. However, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary.

**Accessibility and Insurance Coverage**

Accessibility is another important consideration. Hospitals near 02916 accept a variety of insurance plans. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospital and the specific physicians they wish to see. The location of the hospital and its proximity to public transportation or parking facilities are also important factors for accessibility.

**Conclusion**

For residents of the 02916 ZIP code, the healthcare landscape offers a range of options. Rhode Island Hospital and Miriam Hospital are the larger general hospitals, offering a broad spectrum of services. Women & Infants Hospital provides specialized care for women and newborns. Butler Hospital focuses on mental health. Patients should consider their specific healthcare needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences when making healthcare decisions. Researching each hospital's strengths and weaknesses, comparing ER wait times, and exploring telehealth options can help individuals make informed choices that best suit their needs. This "Overall Health Score" review aims to provide a foundation for that informed decision-making process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed about the latest developments and changes is essential.