03833, Exeter, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03833, Exeter, New Hampshire is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Dover, NH (ZIP Code 03833)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review offers an “Overall Health Score” assessment of hospitals serving the Dover, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03833) area, focusing on key performance indicators to help you make informed decisions. The assessment considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and overall patient experience. This is not medical advice, but rather a compilation of publicly available data to aid in your research.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The primary healthcare providers for residents of Dover and surrounding communities are a mix of regional hospitals and specialized facilities. Proximity to larger cities like Portsmouth, NH, and even Boston, MA, provides access to a broader range of services. This review will primarily focus on facilities easily accessible to the 03833 ZIP code, acknowledging the potential for seeking care further afield.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to hospitals, offering a snapshot of quality based on various metrics. These ratings are a valuable starting point, though they should be considered alongside other factors.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH):** Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (WDH) is a major player in the Dover area. As of the latest available data, WDH has a 4-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a generally good performance across several categories, including patient experience, safety of care, and timely and effective care. WDH offers a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a robust cardiac program, and a well-regarded maternity ward.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH):** Located a short drive from Dover, Portsmouth Regional Hospital (PRH) is another significant option. PRH is a 5-star rated hospital by CMS. This higher rating indicates consistently strong performance across various quality measures. PRH is known for its advanced cardiac care, including a comprehensive heart and vascular center. They also have a dedicated stroke center and offer a wide array of surgical services.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in urgent situations. These times can fluctuate, so it's essential to check current wait times, which are often available on hospital websites or through online tracking tools.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH):** WDH's ER typically experiences moderate wait times. Data suggests that wait times are generally within the national average, but it is always advisable to check real-time data before heading to the ER. The hospital has invested in streamlining its ER processes, but the volume of patients can influence wait times.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH):** PRH's ER often experiences higher patient volumes, which can lead to longer wait times compared to WDH. However, PRH’s ER is equipped to handle a broad spectrum of medical emergencies. Checking current wait times online or by phone is particularly important before seeking care at PRH.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized services is critical. Both WDH and PRH offer a range of specialty centers.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH):** WDH boasts a comprehensive cancer center providing radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. Their cardiology program is well-regarded, and they offer specialized care for women's health, including obstetrics and gynecology. They also have a dedicated rehabilitation center.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH):** PRH is known for its advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. They also have a comprehensive cancer center. PRH has specialized surgical centers and offers a wide range of robotic surgery options. They also have a dedicated bariatric surgery program.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH):** WDH has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties. They offer telehealth options for primary care, behavioral health, and some specialty consultations. The hospital continues to expand its telehealth platform to improve patient access.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH):** PRH has also invested in telehealth, offering virtual appointments across multiple specialties. They provide telehealth services for primary care, cardiology, and other specialized areas. PRH is actively working to integrate telehealth into its care delivery model.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial indicator of quality. Surveys and patient feedback provide valuable insights into the care provided.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH):** Patient satisfaction scores at WDH are generally positive. The hospital consistently receives good marks for its nursing care, responsiveness of staff, and overall patient experience. Patient feedback is used to drive improvements in care delivery.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH):** PRH also receives generally positive patient satisfaction scores. Patients often praise the hospital's specialized services and the expertise of its medical staff. Patient feedback is used to improve the overall patient experience.

**Additional Considerations:**

**Access to Specialists:** The availability of specialists is essential. Both WDH and PRH have networks of physicians, but the specific specialties available can vary. Consider your individual needs and research the specialists available within each hospital system.

**Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospitals you are considering are in your insurance network. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage and understand your out-of-pocket expenses.

**Community Health Needs:** Consider the hospital's involvement in community health initiatives. Look for information on programs addressing local health concerns and promoting preventative care.

**Financial Assistance:** Both hospitals offer financial assistance programs for those who qualify. Review the hospital's financial assistance policy to understand eligibility requirements.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH):** WDH is a solid choice for comprehensive care in the Dover area. Its 4-star CMS rating, strong specialty services, and commitment to telehealth make it a reliable option. The ER wait times are generally moderate.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH):** PRH, with its 5-star CMS rating, is a strong contender, especially for specialized care, including cardiac and cancer services. The ER may experience longer wait times.

**The "Overall Health Score" for both hospitals is high, reflecting their commitment to providing quality healthcare to the community. The best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the factors outlined above, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities, to make an informed decision.**