03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Portsmouth, NH (ZIP Code 03869)

The coastal city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and its surrounding communities benefit from a relatively robust healthcare landscape. Residents near the 03869 ZIP code have access to a network of hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an overall health score assessment, focusing on key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth availability, offering a comprehensive perspective for informed healthcare decisions.

**Core Healthcare Providers: A Deep Dive**

The cornerstone of healthcare access for 03869 residents is undoubtedly **Wentworth-Douglass Hospital** in Dover, NH, a short drive north. This is a flagship facility and the most prominent option. Wentworth-Douglass is a 230-bed, not-for-profit hospital that has been serving the Seacoast region for over a century. It is part of the Mass General Brigham system, which offers a level of affiliation that can be beneficial.

**CMS Star Ratings and Performance Metrics:**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital holds a respectable **4-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. While not a perfect score, a 4-star rating indicates above-average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. The hospital has shown consistent performance in areas like heart attack and heart failure treatment, pneumonia care, and surgical care.

**Emergency Room Dynamics:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in evaluating hospital accessibility. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital generally reports ER wait times that are within the national average. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. Patients should expect to be triaged upon arrival, with the most critical cases receiving immediate attention. The hospital's ER handles a high volume of patients, and the availability of specialized emergency services is a key strength.

**Specialty Centers and Services at Wentworth-Douglass:**

Wentworth-Douglass boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Its **Heart and Vascular Center** is a notable asset, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery. The hospital also has a well-regarded **Cancer Center** that provides comprehensive cancer treatment services, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. Other key specialties include orthopedics, women's health, and behavioral health. The hospital's affiliation with Mass General Brigham further enhances access to specialized expertise and resources.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has actively embraced telehealth, particularly in response to the increased demand during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth services are available for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and certain follow-up appointments. The hospital's digital health initiatives include online patient portals for accessing medical records, scheduling appointments, and communicating with healthcare providers. The hospital is continuing to expand its telehealth offerings to improve access to care for patients in remote areas.

**Other Healthcare Options: Exploring the Landscape**

While Wentworth-Douglass is the primary hospital for residents of 03869, other healthcare options are available within a reasonable driving distance. These options offer alternative choices depending on specific needs and preferences.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital:**

Located in Portsmouth, NH, this hospital is another option. While not directly within the 03869 ZIP code, it is easily accessible. Portsmouth Regional Hospital is a 204-bed facility and is part of HCA Healthcare.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital has a **3-star rating** from CMS. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals. The hospital has shown strong performance in certain areas, but it may have areas needing improvement.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital's ER typically experiences wait times that are within the national average. However, it is advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Services at Portsmouth Regional:**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital is a designated Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle a wide range of emergency cases. It also has a comprehensive stroke center.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth services are available for various specialties, including primary care and specialist consultations. The hospital's digital health initiatives include online patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers.

**Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Centers:**

In addition to the larger hospitals, the area surrounding 03869 is served by a network of smaller facilities and outpatient centers. These facilities offer a range of services, including primary care, urgent care, and specialized clinics.

**Seacoast Family Doctors:**

This is a well-regarded primary care provider with multiple locations in the area. They offer comprehensive primary care services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and same-day appointments.

**Concentra Urgent Care:**

Concentra Urgent Care has several locations nearby, providing convenient access to urgent care services for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. They offer extended hours and walk-in appointments.

**Specialized Clinics and Outpatient Centers:**

The area is home to various specialized clinics and outpatient centers, providing specialized care in areas such as physical therapy, mental health, and women's health. These centers often offer a more focused approach to care.

**Factors Influencing Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for the hospitals near 03869 is influenced by several factors. These factors include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a standardized measure of hospital quality. Higher ratings indicate better performance.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Shorter wait times indicate better access to emergency care.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, is critical for comprehensive care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services improve access to care, especially for patients in remote areas or with mobility limitations.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores and feedback are crucial indicators of the quality of care.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** Affiliations with larger healthcare systems can provide access to specialized expertise and resources.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the overall health score for hospitals near 03869 is **favorable**. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, with its 4-star CMS rating and comprehensive specialty offerings, is the leading provider. Portsmouth Regional Hospital also offers valuable services, although its CMS rating is slightly lower. The presence of a network of smaller facilities and outpatient centers further enhances access to care.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

* **Prioritize Primary Care:** Establish a relationship with a primary care physician for preventative care and ongoing health management.
* **Research Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care, research the specific expertise and services offered by each hospital and clinic.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Before visiting the ER, check current wait times online or by phone to minimize wait times.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Consider using telehealth services for appropriate appointments and follow-up care.
* **Review Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience at each facility.
* **Consider Affiliations:** Consider the affiliations of hospitals and clinics, as they can provide access to a wider network of resources.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 03869 ZIP code have access to a strong healthcare system. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital serves as the primary hub, with Portsmouth Regional Hospital and a network of smaller facilities providing additional options. By considering the factors outlined in this review and making informed healthcare choices, residents can access the care they need to maintain their health and well-being. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and ongoing monitoring of performance metrics and patient feedback is essential for maintaining a high standard of care.