03293, Woodstock, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03293, Woodstock, New Hampshire is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Wilmot, NH (03293)

The picturesque town of Wilmot, New Hampshire, nestled in the heart of the state, relies on a network of hospitals and healthcare providers to serve its residents. Determining the "best" hospital involves a complex assessment, considering factors like quality of care, accessibility, specialty services, and patient experience. This review analyzes hospitals within a reasonable radius of the 03293 ZIP code, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape around Wilmot is largely defined by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Residents often travel to Concord, Lebanon, or even Manchester for specialized care. Proximity, however, is not the only factor. Quality of care, as measured by standardized metrics, should be a primary consideration.

**Key Players and Their Performance:**

**1. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, approximately 30 miles from Wilmot, is a flagship institution and the most significant healthcare provider in the region. It is a tertiary care center, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. DHMC holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. DHMC consistently scores well in areas like heart attack and stroke care, and it has a strong reputation for complex surgical procedures.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** While specific ER wait times fluctuate, DHMC’s ED typically experiences wait times that are competitive with other regional hospitals. Patients should be prepared for potential waits, particularly during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers:** DHMC boasts several renowned specialty centers, including the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. It also houses the Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinics, offering a wide range of outpatient services.

**Telehealth:** DHMC has made significant investments in telehealth, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. They offer telehealth appointments across numerous specialties, enhancing access to care for patients in remote areas like Wilmot.

**Overall Health Score for DHMC:** High. DHMC's CMS star rating, comprehensive services, and commitment to telehealth make it a top-tier option for residents near Wilmot.

**2. Concord Hospital (Concord, NH):**

Concord Hospital, located approximately 40 miles from Wilmot, is another key player in the region. It is a community hospital with a strong reputation for quality care. Concord Hospital has a **3-star rating from CMS**. This indicates a solid performance, though slightly lower than DHMC.

**Emergency Department Performance:** Concord Hospital's ED typically experiences moderate wait times, often shorter than those at larger tertiary centers.

**Specialty Centers:** Concord Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive cancer center.

**Telehealth:** Concord Hospital has been expanding its telehealth offerings, providing virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring.

**Overall Health Score for Concord Hospital:** Solid. Concord Hospital provides reliable care and is a good option for many residents, particularly for those seeking more immediate access to care.

**3. Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (Lebanon, NH):**

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital, also in Lebanon, is a smaller community hospital affiliated with Dartmouth Health. While it doesn’t have a CMS star rating, it is known for its focus on patient-centered care and a strong primary care network.

**Emergency Department Performance:** Alice Peck Day’s ED typically has shorter wait times than DHMC.

**Specialty Centers:** Alice Peck Day offers a range of services, including primary care, outpatient surgery, and rehabilitation.

**Telehealth:** Alice Peck Day is expanding its telehealth services.

**Overall Health Score for Alice Peck Day:** Good. It provides a valuable option for those seeking a more intimate healthcare experience.

**4. Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH):**

Catholic Medical Center (CMC), located in Manchester (approximately 70 miles from Wilmot), is a larger hospital with a strong regional presence. It has a **3-star rating from CMS**.

**Emergency Department Performance:** CMC's ED often experiences longer wait times due to its higher patient volume.

**Specialty Centers:** CMC offers a wide array of specialty services, including cardiovascular care, orthopedic surgery, and a comprehensive cancer center.

**Telehealth:** CMC has invested in telehealth capabilities, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Overall Health Score for Catholic Medical Center:** Moderate. While it offers a broad range of services, the distance and potential for longer wait times may make it a less convenient option for Wilmot residents.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Proximity:** Travel time is a significant factor, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Needs:** Consider the availability of specialized services required.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in-network for your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the patient experience.
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** Check real-time wait times online or by phone.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Use CMS star ratings as a general indicator of quality.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Consider the availability of telehealth options for convenience.

**ER Wait Time Considerations:**

ER wait times are dynamic and fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases. Resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and hospital websites often provide estimated wait times. However, these are just estimates, and actual wait times can vary.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for residents in rural areas. It offers convenient access to healthcare professionals for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Hospitals near Wilmot are expanding their telehealth services, making healthcare more accessible.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Primary Care Physicians:** The choice of primary care physician is also crucial. Consider the physician's affiliation with a specific hospital system.
* **Ambulance Services:** Ensure that your local ambulance service has a clear understanding of which hospitals are best suited for your needs.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** Understanding the affiliations between hospitals can be helpful. For example, Alice Peck Day is affiliated with Dartmouth Health, which may influence patient referrals and access to specialists.

**Conclusion: Overall Health Score for the Wilmot Area:**

The overall health score for the area near Wilmot, NH, is generally good. Residents have access to a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers, offering a range of services. DHMC stands out as a top-tier option due to its high CMS star rating, comprehensive services, and telehealth capabilities. Concord Hospital provides a solid alternative, while Alice Peck Day offers a more intimate healthcare experience. Catholic Medical Center is an option, but its distance may be a factor. Residents should consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and the factors outlined above when choosing a hospital. Proactive healthcare planning, including establishing a relationship with a primary care physician and understanding local emergency services, is crucial for ensuring optimal health outcomes. The ongoing expansion of telehealth services further enhances healthcare access for Wilmot residents.