New York’s hospitals received lackluster rankings in the latest federal quality rating reports, with the state’s health system underperforming compared to national averages.
According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rankings, only 11 hospitals in New York received the top 5-star rating, reflecting 8% of eligible state hospitals, while about 15% of hospitals nationally achieved the top score. In contrast, 25 New York hospitals received the lowest 1-star rating, reflecting about 18% of eligible state hospitals, compared to a national average of 8%.
The federal quality ratings, updated every July, analyze quality information across five areas: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience, and timely and effective care. New York’s subpar rankings continue a years-long trend, despite spending more on health care than other states. Hospital trade groups have challenged many of the rankings, citing varying standards and timeframes for data reviews. A study by the New York Public Interest Research Group pointed to limited state fines on hospitals that endanger patients and failures to implement best practices as potential reasons for the low ratings.
In the Finger Lakes region, the rankings of hospitals varied. F.F. Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua, Highland Hospital, Strong Memorial Hospital, Unity Hospital in Rochester, and Wyoming County Community Hospital all received 2-star ratings. Finger Lakes Health-Geneva General Hospital and Rochester General Hospital were given a 1-star rating, while Newark-Wayne Community Hospital received a 3-star rating. Experts emphasize the importance of patients being aware of these results, as they focus on various significant issues.
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