03254, Moultonborough, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03254, Moultonborough, New Hampshire is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 03254 (Laconia, NH)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Laconia, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03254) area, focusing on key metrics to help residents make informed decisions about their care. The analysis considers factors like hospital quality, accessibility, specialized services, and the evolving role of telehealth.

**The Landscape: Primary Hospitals and Their Ratings**

The primary hospital serving the Laconia area is **Lakes Region General Hospital (LRGH)**, part of the Dartmouth Health system. LRGH is the central focus of this review, as it is the closest and most frequently utilized hospital for residents of 03254. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, such as those in Concord and Manchester, will also be considered for specialized care options.

**Lakes Region General Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Lakes Region General Hospital, a 133-bed facility, is a vital resource for the community. It is a critical access hospital, a designation that reflects its importance in providing care to a rural population. LRGH does not have a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating. This is common for critical access hospitals, as they are not always subject to the same rating systems as larger facilities. However, the hospital’s performance is still assessed through various other quality metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance: Wait Times and Efficiency**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's ability to handle patient volume and provide timely care. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website, along with publicly available data, provides insight into LRGH's ER performance. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, analyzing historical data reveals average wait times for LRGH. It is important to note that wait times are influenced by factors like the severity of a patient's condition and the overall ER volume.

**Specialty Services: Available Expertise**

LRGH offers a range of specialty services to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the community. These include cardiology, general surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics and gynecology, and a comprehensive cancer care program. The hospital's affiliation with Dartmouth Health provides access to a broader network of specialists and advanced treatments.

**Cardiology and Heart Health:** LRGH's cardiology services include diagnostic testing, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, as well as interventional cardiology procedures. The hospital works closely with Dartmouth Health specialists to provide advanced cardiac care.

**Surgical Services:** The hospital provides general surgery, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques. Orthopedic surgery is also a key area, offering joint replacements, fracture care, and sports medicine services.

**Women's Health:** The obstetrics and gynecology department offers comprehensive care for women, including prenatal care, labor and delivery services, and gynecological procedures.

**Cancer Care:** LRGH has a cancer care program that provides chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other supportive services. The program collaborates with Dartmouth Health's Norris Cotton Cancer Center for advanced treatment options.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. LRGH has embraced telehealth to expand access to care and improve patient convenience. The hospital offers telehealth consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and virtual urgent care services. The adoption of telehealth has been particularly beneficial for patients who live in remote areas or have difficulty traveling to appointments.

**Dartmouth Health Affiliation: The Advantage**

The affiliation with Dartmouth Health significantly enhances LRGH's capabilities. This partnership provides access to a wider range of specialists, advanced technologies, and research opportunities. Patients can benefit from seamless referrals to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, for specialized care that may not be available locally.

**Other Hospitals Within Reach: Options for Specialized Care**

While LRGH is the primary hospital for the area, residents may need to seek specialized care at other facilities.

**Concord Hospital:** Located approximately 40 miles south of Laconia, Concord Hospital offers a broader range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and comprehensive cancer treatment. Concord Hospital has a CMS star rating, which is a good indicator of quality.

**Catholic Medical Center (Manchester):** Located approximately 60 miles south of Laconia, Catholic Medical Center is another option for specialized care. It is known for its comprehensive heart and vascular program, as well as its advanced surgical services. CMC has a CMS star rating, which is a good indicator of quality.

**Comparing the Options: A Holistic View**

Choosing the right hospital involves considering several factors. For residents of 03254, LRGH is the most accessible option for immediate care and a wide range of services. Its affiliation with Dartmouth Health provides access to a larger network of specialists and advanced treatments. However, for specific needs, such as complex cardiac procedures or specialized cancer care, Concord Hospital or Catholic Medical Center may be preferable options.

**Accessibility and Convenience: Factors to Consider**

Accessibility is a crucial factor, particularly in a rural area. LRGH's location in Laconia makes it easily accessible for residents of 03254. The hospital provides ample parking and is well-connected to local transportation routes.

**Patient Experience: Beyond Clinical Metrics**

While clinical outcomes are paramount, patient experience is also important. LRGH is committed to providing a positive patient experience. The hospital’s website provides information on patient rights, billing procedures, and patient feedback mechanisms. Patients are encouraged to share their experiences through surveys and other channels.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary Assessment**

Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 03254 requires a balanced assessment of various factors.

**Strengths of LRGH:**

* **Accessibility:** Convenient location for residents of 03254.
* **Comprehensive Services:** Offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, cardiology, and women's health.
* **Dartmouth Health Affiliation:** Provides access to a broader network of specialists and advanced treatments.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Expanding access to care through virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Considerations:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** LRGH does not have a CMS star rating.
* **Specialized Care:** For certain specialized procedures, patients may need to travel to Concord Hospital or Catholic Medical Center.
* **ER Wait Times:** While specific wait times fluctuate, it is important to be aware of the potential for delays, especially during peak hours.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of 03254, Lakes Region General Hospital is a vital healthcare resource, offering a comprehensive range of services and convenient access. The hospital's affiliation with Dartmouth Health enhances its capabilities and provides access to advanced treatments. While patients may need to seek specialized care elsewhere for certain needs, LRGH remains a cornerstone of healthcare in the Laconia area. Patients should consider their individual needs and preferences when making healthcare decisions, and it is always recommended to discuss options with their primary care physician.