03756, Lebanon, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03756, Lebanon, New Hampshire is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Assessing Hospitals Near Lebanon, NH (ZIP Code 03756)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Lebanon, NH (ZIP Code 03756), focusing on key metrics like quality, access, and specialized services. This information aims to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The area surrounding Lebanon, NH, is served by a network of hospitals, ranging from large regional medical centers to smaller community hospitals. Proximity to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon significantly influences the healthcare landscape, providing access to a broad spectrum of specialties and advanced treatments. Other facilities, such as Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital, also play crucial roles in delivering care. This review will assess these key players, providing a snapshot of their strengths and weaknesses.

**Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC): The Flagship**

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) is the dominant healthcare provider in the region. As a large, academic medical center, DHMC offers a comprehensive range of services, attracting patients from a wide geographic area. DHMC is a major employer and economic driver for the Upper Valley region.

**CMS Star Rating:** DHMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on performance across various categories, including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it is essential to delve deeper into specific areas to understand DHMC's strengths and weaknesses.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical indicator of access and efficiency. DHMC's ER wait times fluctuate, but data suggests they are often longer than the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. The hospital is actively working to improve ER throughput, but this remains an area of concern for many patients.

**Specialty Centers:** DHMC boasts a robust network of specialty centers, including the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. This center provides advanced cancer treatment and research. Other notable specialty centers include the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Heart and Vascular Center, the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Orthopaedics department, and the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Children's Hospital. These centers offer specialized expertise and advanced technologies.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** DHMC has invested significantly in telehealth services. They offer a wide range of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring programs, and virtual care options. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth usage has increased substantially, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. DHMC's telehealth program is considered a regional leader.

**Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital: Community Focus**

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD), located in Lebanon, offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. While smaller than DHMC, APD provides essential services and often serves as a primary care hub for many residents.

**CMS Star Rating:** APD has not received a CMS star rating, as it is a smaller hospital.

**ER Performance:** APD's ER typically experiences shorter wait times compared to DHMC, making it a potentially more accessible option for urgent care needs. However, the scope of services is more limited than at DHMC.

**Specialty Services:** APD offers a range of primary care, including family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. They also provide specialized services, such as orthopedics, physical therapy, and imaging services.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** APD has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in primary care and behavioral health. They are working to increase access to virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs.

**Other Considerations:**

**Proximity and Access:** The geographic location of hospitals is a critical factor. DHMC is centrally located in Lebanon, making it easily accessible for most residents. APD is also located in Lebanon, providing convenient access. Consider travel time and transportation options when choosing a hospital.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and feedback are valuable indicators of quality. DHMC and APD both have online platforms where patients can share their experiences. Reviewing these testimonials can offer insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and overall care quality.

**Cost of Care:** Healthcare costs vary significantly. Researching insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and payment options is crucial. DHMC and APD both accept a wide range of insurance plans. Contacting the hospitals directly to inquire about cost estimates for specific procedures is advisable.

**Specific Health Needs:** Individuals with specific health conditions should consider the specialized services offered by each hospital. For example, cancer patients may benefit from the advanced treatments available at the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at DHMC. Patients with cardiac conditions may seek care at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Heart and Vascular Center.

**Overall Health Score Breakdown:**

**Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC):**

* **Quality of Care:** 3 stars (CMS rating), strong specialty centers.
* **Access:** Longer ER wait times, but extensive telehealth options.
* **Specialty Services:** Excellent, including cancer, heart, and orthopedics.
* **Patient Experience:** Mixed, with some negative reviews regarding wait times.
* **Overall Score:** **Good**, with strengths in specialty care and telehealth, but weaknesses in ER wait times.

**Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD):**

* **Quality of Care:** Not rated by CMS, focus on community care.
* **Access:** Shorter ER wait times.
* **Specialty Services:** Strong primary care, with some specialized services.
* **Patient Experience:** Generally positive feedback.
* **Overall Score:** **Good**, with strengths in access and community focus.

**Recommendations:**

* **For complex medical needs or specialized care:** DHMC is the preferred choice due to its comprehensive services and advanced technology.
* **For urgent care with shorter wait times:** APD may be a better option, especially for less complex conditions.
* **For primary care and routine check-ups:** Both hospitals offer excellent primary care services. Consider proximity, insurance coverage, and patient preferences.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth options offered by both hospitals for convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Research and compare:** Thoroughly research each hospital's services, costs, and patient reviews before making a decision.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near Lebanon, NH (ZIP Code 03756) offer a range of healthcare options. DHMC is the flagship, providing comprehensive services, while APD offers a community-focused approach. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and choose the hospital that best meets their individual requirements. This "Overall Health Score" provides a starting point for evaluating the available resources and making informed choices about healthcare in the Upper Valley region. Remember to always consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.