03835, Farmington, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03835, Farmington, New Hampshire is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Rochester, NH (ZIP Code 03835)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving residents near Rochester, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03835), considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**Key Considerations: Quality Ratings & Data Sources**

This review relies heavily on publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a primary source for hospital quality information. CMS assigns star ratings (1-5 stars) based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Data from other sources, like Healthgrades and hospital websites, are also integrated to provide a more comprehensive picture. However, it's crucial to understand that these ratings are snapshots in time and can fluctuate.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

The region surrounding Rochester, NH, is served by several key hospitals. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is paramount.

**1. Frisbie Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NH)**

Frisbie Memorial Hospital, located directly in Rochester, is a critical access hospital. As of the latest CMS data, Frisbie Memorial Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. This designation means that it is a smaller facility, often serving rural communities. Frisbie Memorial Hospital is part of the HCA Healthcare network.

* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times are a critical metric. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's essential to check current wait times on hospital websites or through online platforms like Google Maps before heading to the ER.
* **Specialty Centers:** Frisbie offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital website provides detailed information on specific programs and services.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Frisbie Memorial Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly during the pandemic. Telehealth services can provide convenient access to care for certain conditions and follow-up appointments. Check the hospital's website for the most up-to-date telehealth options.

**2. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH)**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, located in Dover, NH, is another major hospital serving the region. As of the latest CMS data, Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has a 3-star rating.

* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Wentworth-Douglass are a key consideration. Real-time wait times can vary significantly. It's recommended to check the hospital's website or a reliable platform for the most current information.
* **Specialty Centers:** Wentworth-Douglass offers a wide array of specialty services, including a comprehensive cancer center, heart and vascular care, and advanced surgical procedures.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Wentworth-Douglass has invested in telehealth, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. Check their website for available telehealth services and how to access them.

**3. Portsmouth Regional Hospital (Portsmouth, NH)**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital, located in Portsmouth, NH, is another major hospital serving the region. As of the latest CMS data, Portsmouth Regional Hospital has a 2-star rating.

* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** ER wait times at Portsmouth Regional Hospital can vary, and it's essential to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms before heading to the ER.
* **Specialty Centers:** Portsmouth Regional Hospital has a range of specialty centers, including a comprehensive stroke center, a cardiac center, and advanced surgical capabilities.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Portsmouth Regional Hospital offers telehealth services for some specialties. Check their website for the most up-to-date telehealth options.

**4. Other Hospitals and Considerations**

Residents near 03835 may also consider hospitals in neighboring communities, depending on their specific needs and preferences. This could include hospitals in Maine, such as York Hospital, which may provide specialized services.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant factor in assessing hospital performance. Longer wait times can indicate higher patient volumes or potential inefficiencies. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone before visiting the ER is crucial.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The availability of specialized centers is vital for those with specific health conditions. Hospitals with dedicated centers for cardiology, cancer treatment, orthopedics, and other specialties often provide more focused and advanced care. Researching the specific services offered by each hospital is essential.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer greater convenience and accessibility for patients.

**Patient Experience: A Crucial Element**

Patient experience is a vital aspect of overall hospital quality. CMS star ratings include patient experience scores based on patient surveys. Factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment contribute to patient satisfaction.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

Determining an "Overall Health Score" requires weighing multiple factors. Based on the available data, here's a general assessment:

* **Frisbie Memorial Hospital:** While it may not have a CMS star rating, it is a critical access hospital that provides essential services to the Rochester community.
* **Wentworth-Douglass Hospital:** A 3-star rating indicates a level of quality, and the hospital offers a wide range of services.
* **Portsmouth Regional Hospital:** A 2-star rating suggests a need for improvement in some areas, but the hospital still provides important services to the region.

**Recommendations and Further Research**

This review provides a starting point for assessing hospitals near Rochester, NH (03835). Patients should:

* **Consult with their primary care physician:** Discussing individual health needs and preferences with a doctor is crucial for making informed decisions.
* **Research specific services:** Investigate the specific programs and services offered by each hospital to ensure they meet individual needs.
* **Check real-time ER wait times:** Always check current wait times before heading to the ER.
* **Review patient reviews and testimonials:** Consider patient experiences and feedback from online sources.
* **Stay informed about changes:** Hospital quality ratings and services can change. Regularly check the latest data from CMS and hospital websites.

This "Overall Health Score" review aims to empower residents near 03835 to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Remember that individual needs vary, and thorough research is essential for finding the best fit.