03233, Elkins, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03233, Elkins, New Hampshire is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 03233 (Concord, NH)

This review assesses the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 03233, focusing on hospital performance, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis considers factors such as CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, availability of specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents of the Concord, New Hampshire area.

**The Flagship: Concord Hospital**

Concord Hospital, located directly within ZIP code 03301 (adjacent to 03233), serves as the primary healthcare provider for the region. It is a not-for-profit, acute care hospital and a major employer in the area. Concord Hospital holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on factors like mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care, places it in the upper-middle tier nationally.

**Emergency Department Dynamics**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and accessibility. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, data suggests that Concord Hospital generally experiences moderate ER wait times. This is a key consideration for residents needing immediate medical attention. It is important to note that ER wait times can vary significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services at Concord Hospital**

Concord Hospital boasts a range of specialized centers, providing comprehensive care for diverse medical needs. The Payson Center for Cancer Care offers advanced cancer treatment and support services. The Cardiovascular Institute provides specialized care for heart and vascular conditions, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The Women's Health Pavilion offers comprehensive services for women, including obstetrics, gynecology, and breast health. The hospital also has a robust orthopedic program, a dedicated behavioral health unit, and a comprehensive rehabilitation center.

**Telehealth Integration**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Concord Hospital has integrated telehealth services, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other digital health solutions. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live in more remote areas or have difficulty traveling to the hospital. The hospital's telehealth offerings cover a variety of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management.

**Beyond Concord Hospital: Other Options**

While Concord Hospital is the primary provider, residents of 03233 have other healthcare options within a reasonable driving distance.

**Dartmouth Health (Lebanon, NH)**

Dartmouth Health, located in Lebanon, NH (approximately 60 miles from Concord), is a major academic medical center and a regional referral center. It is a significantly larger facility than Concord Hospital and offers a broader range of specialized services. Dartmouth Health consistently receives high ratings and is known for its cutting-edge research and advanced treatments. While a longer drive, Dartmouth Health is a crucial option for complex medical needs. Dartmouth Health's flagship hospital, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, also holds a 4-star CMS rating.

**Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH)**

Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester, NH (approximately 20 miles from Concord), is another significant healthcare provider. CMC is a large, regional hospital offering a comprehensive range of services. CMC has a 3-star CMS rating. It is a convenient option for residents seeking care in the Manchester area.

**Smaller Community Hospitals and Urgent Care Facilities**

Beyond the major hospitals, the area has a network of smaller community hospitals and urgent care facilities. These facilities can provide convenient access to primary care, urgent care, and certain specialized services. These facilities can be particularly useful for less serious medical needs, reducing the burden on larger hospitals.

**Accessibility and Transportation Considerations**

Accessibility is a critical factor in healthcare. The Concord area has relatively good road access, making it generally easy to reach the major hospitals. However, public transportation options are limited. This means that residents who do not have personal vehicles may face challenges in accessing healthcare services. The availability of ride-sharing services can help bridge this gap.

**Insurance Coverage and Affordability**

The affordability of healthcare is a major concern for many residents. The availability of insurance coverage and the cost of medical services are important considerations. The Concord area has a mix of private insurance plans, as well as access to government-sponsored programs like Medicare and Medicaid. However, healthcare costs can still be a significant financial burden for some individuals and families.

**Quality of Care and Patient Experience**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. Concord Hospital consistently receives positive feedback from patients regarding the quality of care and the responsiveness of staff. Dartmouth Health and Catholic Medical Center also prioritize patient experience. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured by surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP code 03233 is positive, reflecting a strong healthcare infrastructure with several high-quality hospital options.

* **Strengths:** Concord Hospital provides a solid foundation of care, with a good CMS rating and a wide range of specialty services. The proximity of Dartmouth Health offers access to advanced medical care. The presence of Catholic Medical Center and other smaller facilities provides additional options. Telehealth integration enhances accessibility.
* **Weaknesses:** ER wait times can be a concern, and public transportation options are limited. Healthcare costs and affordability remain a challenge.
* **Areas for Improvement:** Continued efforts to reduce ER wait times and improve access to care for underserved populations are crucial. Further expansion of telehealth services could benefit residents, especially those in rural areas.

**Conclusion**

Residents of ZIP code 03233 have access to a good quality healthcare system. Concord Hospital serves as a reliable primary provider, while Dartmouth Health and Catholic Medical Center offer additional options for specialized care. The integration of telehealth and the availability of urgent care facilities further enhance accessibility. While challenges remain regarding ER wait times, transportation, and healthcare costs, the overall healthcare landscape in the Concord area is strong and provides a good level of care. The "Overall Health Score" for this region is considered to be **Good**. Residents should research specific hospitals and services to determine the best fit for their individual healthcare needs.