03457, Nelson, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03457, Nelson, New Hampshire is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Peterborough, NH (ZIP Code 03457)

Peterborough, New Hampshire, nestled in the Monadnock Region, presents residents with a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare: rural location, potentially limited access, and the need to balance local convenience with the expertise of larger regional facilities. This review assesses the overall health landscape for individuals residing near ZIP code 03457, focusing on hospital options, their performance metrics, and the availability of specialized services. We'll delve into key factors impacting patient care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and the growing role of telehealth.

**Local Options: Monadnock Community Hospital**

The most immediate healthcare resource for Peterborough residents is Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) in nearby Peterborough. MCH is a critical access hospital, a designation reflecting its rural setting and the vital role it plays in providing essential services. While critical access hospitals are not subject to the same CMS star rating system as larger facilities, their performance is closely monitored. MCH offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, surgical procedures, and a variety of outpatient clinics. They have a strong focus on community outreach and are known for their commitment to personalized care.

ER wait times at MCH are a critical factor for local residents. Data on ER wait times is available on the hospital's website and through publicly available sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website. These wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. The hospital has been actively working to streamline its processes to reduce wait times.

MCH's specialty services include cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a robust physical therapy and rehabilitation program. The hospital actively promotes telehealth services, recognizing the importance of virtual care in a rural setting. Telehealth offerings include virtual appointments with specialists, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources. The hospital is also part of a larger health network, allowing for seamless referrals to other specialists and facilities when needed.

**Regional Powerhouses: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Cheshire Medical Center**

For more complex medical needs, residents often turn to regional hospitals. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH, is a major academic medical center approximately an hour's drive from Peterborough. DHMC is a nationally recognized institution, providing a comprehensive range of services, including advanced surgical procedures, specialized cancer care, and cutting-edge research. DHMC consistently earns high marks in CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.

DHMC's emergency department is a high-volume facility, and wait times can vary. The hospital provides real-time updates on ER wait times on its website and through other public channels. DHMC is known for its specialized centers, including the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, which offers comprehensive cancer treatment and research. They also have centers of excellence in cardiology, neurology, and other specialties.

Telehealth is a significant component of DHMC's service offerings. They provide a wide array of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and access to specialists through telehealth platforms. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas like Peterborough, reducing the need for long travel for routine appointments.

Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, NH, is another important regional hospital, located about a 30-minute drive from Peterborough. Cheshire Medical Center is part of the Dartmouth Health system, providing a wide range of services to the region. Cheshire Medical Center has earned high marks in CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.

Cheshire Medical Center's emergency department is a busy facility, and wait times can vary. The hospital provides real-time updates on ER wait times on its website and through other public channels. Cheshire Medical Center has a strong focus on primary care and offers a variety of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.

Telehealth is an important part of Cheshire Medical Center's service offerings. They provide a wide array of virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and access to specialists through telehealth platforms. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas like Peterborough, reducing the need for long travel for routine appointments.

**Specialty Considerations: Cancer Care, Cardiac Care, and Orthopedics**

The availability of specialized care is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health landscape. For cancer care, the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at DHMC is a major regional resource, offering comprehensive treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. Cheshire Medical Center also offers cancer care services.

For cardiac care, both DHMC and Cheshire Medical Center have advanced cardiology programs. DHMC has a renowned heart center, offering a full spectrum of cardiac services, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac surgery. Cheshire Medical Center also provides comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic testing, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Orthopedic care is readily available at MCH, Cheshire Medical Center, and DHMC. MCH provides orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine. Cheshire Medical Center has a robust orthopedic program, with specialists in various areas, including joint replacement, sports medicine, and spine care. DHMC has a comprehensive orthopedic department, offering advanced surgical procedures and rehabilitation services.

**Telehealth's Expanding Role**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. All the hospitals discussed – MCH, DHMC, and Cheshire Medical Center – have embraced telehealth to varying degrees. Telehealth offers several advantages, including reduced travel time, increased access to specialists, and convenient follow-up appointments. Telehealth services can range from virtual consultations with primary care physicians to remote monitoring of chronic conditions. The availability and accessibility of telehealth services are critical factors in assessing the overall health score for residents near ZIP code 03457.

**Insurance and Access**

Access to healthcare is also influenced by insurance coverage and affordability. The availability of insurance options, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans, is a crucial factor. Residents should familiarize themselves with the insurance plans accepted by each hospital and the associated costs. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services provides resources and information on healthcare coverage options.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 03457 is a composite of factors, including access to local and regional hospitals, their performance metrics, the availability of specialty services, and the growing role of telehealth.

MCH serves as a vital local resource, providing essential services and convenient access. DHMC and Cheshire Medical Center offer more specialized care and advanced medical expertise. The choice of hospital will depend on the individual's specific needs and preferences.

ER wait times are a critical factor for all hospitals, and residents should be aware of the average wait times and the availability of real-time updates.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, offering convenient access to care and reducing the need for travel.

Residents should research their insurance coverage and the costs associated with different healthcare providers.

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 03457 is favorable, with access to both local and regional healthcare options. Residents have access to a good range of services, including primary care, emergency care, specialty care, and telehealth. The ability to access these services will depend on individual needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences. The continuous improvement of services, particularly in telehealth, will further enhance the overall health score for this community.