03445, Sullivan, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03445, Sullivan, New Hampshire is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Peterborough, NH (ZIP Code 03445)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Peterborough, New Hampshire (ZIP Code 03445), focusing on key performance indicators to help residents make informed decisions. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and more. Due to the rural nature of the area, the primary focus will be on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that specialized care may necessitate travel to larger medical centers.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Peterborough, NH, is a town in the Monadnock Region, and its healthcare access is largely defined by the surrounding communities. The closest hospital is Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) in nearby Peterborough. Larger hospitals in Keene, NH, and Nashua, NH, are also accessible, offering a wider range of services. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number, but rather a composite assessment based on the data available for each facility.

**Monadnock Community Hospital (Peterborough, NH):**

Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) is the most immediate healthcare resource for residents of 03445. As a critical access hospital, MCH plays a vital role in providing essential services to the community. MCH does not have a CMS star rating because critical access hospitals are not rated under the same system as larger facilities. However, it is important to note that MCH is accredited by The Joint Commission, demonstrating its commitment to quality and safety.

MCH’s Emergency Department (ED) is a crucial point of access. While specific, regularly updated ER wait times are difficult to obtain publicly, the hospital strives to provide timely care. Residents should be aware that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. MCH offers a range of services, including inpatient and outpatient care, surgical services, and a comprehensive laboratory. Its primary care and specialty clinics provide access to internal medicine, cardiology, orthopedics, and other essential areas.

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. MCH offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. The availability and scope of these services are continuously evolving, and patients are encouraged to check the hospital's website or contact their primary care physician for the most current information. MCH is also part of the Dartmouth Health system, which provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

**Cheshire Medical Center (Keene, NH):**

Cheshire Medical Center, located in Keene, NH, is a larger facility approximately a 30-minute drive from Peterborough. It is part of the Dartmouth Health system, offering a more comprehensive range of services than MCH. Cheshire Medical Center has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a good overall performance based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors.

Cheshire Medical Center's Emergency Department is equipped to handle a wider variety of cases than MCH. While specific wait times vary, the hospital generally strives to provide timely care. It is crucial to check current wait times, especially during peak hours. Cheshire Medical Center offers a wide array of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and a comprehensive surgical department. It also has a dedicated birthing center and a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Telehealth plays a significant role at Cheshire Medical Center. The hospital offers a variety of telehealth services, including virtual visits with specialists and remote monitoring programs. The availability of telehealth options is constantly expanding, allowing patients to access care from the comfort of their homes.

**Southern New Hampshire Medical Center (Nashua, NH):**

Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, located in Nashua, NH, is a larger hospital approximately an hour's drive from Peterborough. It is a major regional medical center and offers a broad spectrum of services. Southern New Hampshire Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

The Emergency Department at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center is equipped to handle a high volume of patients and a wide range of medical conditions. While wait times can vary, it is important to consider that this facility is a regional hub and may experience longer wait times than smaller hospitals. The hospital boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and advanced surgical capabilities.

Southern New Hampshire Medical Center has invested in telehealth services. The hospital provides virtual visits with specialists and offers remote monitoring programs. The availability of telehealth options is expanding, offering patients greater access to care.

**Other Considerations:**

The hospitals mentioned above represent the primary healthcare options for residents near 03445. However, it is important to consider other factors when assessing healthcare access.

* **Specialty Care:** For highly specialized care, such as complex cardiac procedures or advanced cancer treatments, patients may need to travel to larger medical centers in Boston, MA, or other major metropolitan areas.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management. Residents should research local primary care practices and ensure they have access to a primary care provider.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is essential. Residents should investigate the availability of mental health providers in the area, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** Urgent care centers can provide timely care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. Residents should be aware of the location and hours of operation of nearby urgent care facilities.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage plays a significant role in healthcare access. Residents should understand their insurance plans and ensure they have adequate coverage for the services they need.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near 03445 is nuanced, reflecting the strengths and limitations of the available healthcare resources.

* **Monadnock Community Hospital:** Provides essential services and is the most accessible option. Its critical access status means it is not rated by CMS, but it is accredited and offers a range of primary and specialty care. Telehealth options are available.
* **Cheshire Medical Center:** Offers a broader range of services and has a 4-star CMS rating. It is part of the Dartmouth Health system, providing access to a larger network of specialists. Telehealth services are available.
* **Southern New Hampshire Medical Center:** A larger regional medical center with a 3-star CMS rating. It offers a comprehensive range of services but may have longer wait times. Telehealth services are available.

**Recommendations:**

Residents of 03445 should consider the following when making healthcare decisions:

* **Establish a primary care physician:** This is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management.
* **Familiarize yourself with the services offered by each hospital:** Understand the capabilities of MCH, Cheshire Medical Center, and Southern New Hampshire Medical Center.
* **Check ER wait times before heading to the emergency room:** This information is often available online or by phone.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Telehealth can provide convenient access to care, especially for routine appointments and follow-up visits.
* **Consider travel time for specialized care:** Be prepared to travel to larger medical centers for specialized treatments.
* **Ensure adequate insurance coverage:** Understand your insurance plan and the services it covers.

The healthcare landscape near Peterborough, NH, offers a range of options, from the local MCH to larger regional hospitals. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each facility and taking proactive steps to manage their health, residents can make informed decisions and access the care they need. This review is intended as a starting point, and further research and consultation with healthcare providers are always recommended. The "Overall Health Score" is a dynamic assessment, and the information presented should be considered current as of the date of publication. Healthcare services and performance metrics are constantly evolving.