03848, Kingston, New Hampshire COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 03848, Kingston, New Hampshire is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Rochester, NH (ZIP Code 03848)

Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) requires vigilant management and access to quality healthcare. For residents of Rochester, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03848), understanding the local hospital landscape is crucial. This review examines the key healthcare providers in the area, focusing on their capabilities in treating COPD, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The primary hospitals serving Rochester, NH, are located within a reasonable driving distance, offering a range of care options. The choices and distances are important considerations for individuals with COPD, who may require frequent medical attention. The proximity to major hospitals in neighboring states like Maine and Massachusetts also expands the available resources.

**Exeter Hospital: A Regional Hub**

Exeter Hospital, located approximately 25 miles southeast of Rochester, NH, is a prominent choice for residents of the 03848 ZIP code. Exeter Hospital is a non-profit, 100-bed community hospital that provides a wide array of services.

Exeter Hospital boasts a respectable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. This suggests that Exeter Hospital generally performs well in these areas, which are important considerations for COPD patients.

While specific data on COPD-related outcomes is difficult to find in a public format, Exeter Hospital's commitment to respiratory care is evident. They offer a dedicated pulmonary rehabilitation program, a critical component of COPD management. This program provides education, exercise training, and support to help patients improve their breathing and quality of life.

Emergency room wait times at Exeter Hospital are generally moderate, with average wait times typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, according to publicly available data. This can be a crucial factor for COPD patients experiencing acute exacerbations. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

Exeter Hospital also has a robust telehealth program. This can be particularly beneficial for COPD patients, who can utilize telehealth appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and remote monitoring of their condition. Telehealth can reduce the need for in-person visits, which can be especially helpful for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital: A Major Player**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital, located approximately 30 miles southeast of Rochester, is another major hospital option for residents of the 03848 ZIP code. It is a 286-bed acute care facility and is part of the HCA Healthcare network.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital also holds a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a similar level of quality as Exeter Hospital. This rating reflects the hospital's commitment to providing high-quality care across various specialties, including respiratory medicine.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital offers a comprehensive pulmonary program, including diagnostic services, respiratory therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Their specialized services are a significant draw for COPD patients. The hospital also has a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) for patients with severe respiratory complications.

Emergency room wait times at Portsmouth Regional Hospital are variable. Data suggests that wait times can be longer than at Exeter Hospital, sometimes exceeding an hour. This is a consideration for patients needing immediate care.

Portsmouth Regional Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, allowing patients to access virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This can be valuable for COPD patients, particularly for medication adjustments and ongoing management.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital: A Local Option**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, located in Dover, NH, approximately 15 miles from Rochester, is another nearby option. It is a 206-bed acute care hospital and is part of the Mass General Brigham network.

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. While this rating is lower than Exeter and Portsmouth Regional Hospitals, it still reflects a commitment to quality care.

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has a dedicated pulmonary department that offers comprehensive respiratory care services, including pulmonary function testing, respiratory therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Their proximity to Rochester makes it a convenient option for residents.

Emergency room wait times at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital are variable. Data indicates that wait times can fluctuate, but are generally comparable to those at Exeter Hospital.

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has a telehealth program, which can be used for follow-up appointments and remote monitoring.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Outpatient Care**

In addition to these primary hospitals, residents of the 03848 ZIP code may also benefit from specialized care centers and outpatient services.

The Pulmonary Associates of Seacoast, with locations in Dover and Portsmouth, offers specialized pulmonary care, including consultations, diagnostic testing, and treatment for various respiratory conditions. This can be a valuable resource for COPD patients seeking specialized expertise.

Several primary care practices in the Rochester area offer services for managing chronic conditions like COPD. These practices can provide ongoing care, medication management, and referrals to specialists.

**Telehealth: A Growing Resource**

Telehealth is increasingly important for managing COPD. The ability to access virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of frequent hospital visits.

Exeter Hospital, Portsmouth Regional Hospital, and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital all offer telehealth services, which can be utilized by patients in the 03848 ZIP code.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for COPD patients, especially during exacerbations. While wait times can vary, it is crucial to be aware of the average wait times at the hospitals in the area.

Exeter Hospital and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital generally have shorter wait times than Portsmouth Regional Hospital. However, wait times can fluctuate, and patients should be prepared for potential delays.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents of Rochester, NH (ZIP Code 03848) with COPD, the healthcare landscape offers a range of options. Exeter Hospital and Portsmouth Regional Hospital are major players, both with 4-star CMS ratings. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital offers a more local option. Each hospital provides pulmonary services, including rehabilitation programs, which are critical for COPD management.

The choice of hospital will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the severity of the condition. Factors such as ER wait times, proximity, and the availability of specialized services should be considered. Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, and all the major hospitals in the area offer these services.

Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and pulmonologists to determine the best course of action and to develop a comprehensive COPD management plan. Understanding the available resources and the strengths of each hospital is essential for navigating the healthcare system and ensuring the best possible care for COPD.