03870, Rye, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03870, Rye, New Hampshire is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Portsmouth, NH (ZIP Code 03870)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of the Portsmouth, NH area (ZIP Code 03870), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**The Flagship: Wentworth-Douglass Hospital**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (WDH), located in Dover, NH, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the 03870 ZIP code. It’s a significant player in the region, and its performance directly impacts the overall health score for the area. WDH is a member of the Mass General Brigham system, a factor that often translates to access to advanced resources and expertise.

**CMS Star Rating:** WDH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, based on a variety of quality measures including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care, places WDH in the middle of the pack nationally. While not the highest possible score, it indicates a baseline level of quality that is generally acceptable.

**Emergency Department Performance:** ER wait times are a critical concern for patients. WDH's ER wait times, while fluctuating, are generally reported to be within the national average. Specific data can vary, so patients should check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online resources before arriving. The hospital's ER sees a high volume of patients, reflecting its role as a primary emergency care provider for the region.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** WDH boasts several specialized centers. The Seacoast Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care, including radiation oncology and chemotherapy. The hospital also has a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology capabilities. Orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine, are also available. The hospital's maternity services are well-regarded, and it has a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU).

**Telehealth Integration:** WDH has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in response to the increased demand during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth services are available for a range of specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and certain specialist consultations. This provides convenient access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Options**

While WDH is the primary hospital for the area, residents also have access to other healthcare facilities. These options contribute to the overall health score by providing additional points of access and competition, which can drive quality improvements.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital:** Located in Portsmouth, NH, this hospital is another key provider. While outside the immediate ZIP code, it's easily accessible for many residents. Portsmouth Regional is part of the HCA Healthcare system.

**CMS Star Rating:** Portsmouth Regional Hospital also has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects a similar level of quality to WDH, suggesting that both hospitals are performing at a comparable level in terms of key quality metrics.

**Emergency Department Performance:** ER wait times at Portsmouth Regional are often comparable to those at WDH. Patients should check real-time wait times online before going to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Portsmouth Regional offers a broad range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a comprehensive stroke center. The hospital has a dedicated women's health center and a Level II Trauma Center, indicating its ability to handle serious injuries.

**Telehealth Integration:** Portsmouth Regional also offers telehealth services, expanding access to care for its patients. The hospital’s telehealth offerings include primary care and specialist consultations.

**Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Care:**

Beyond the major hospitals, the 03870 area benefits from a network of smaller facilities and outpatient clinics. These facilities contribute to the overall health score by providing convenient access to primary care, specialized services, and preventative care.

**Community Health Centers:** Several community health centers offer affordable primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services. These centers are particularly important for underserved populations and individuals without health insurance.

**Urgent Care Clinics:** Several urgent care clinics are located in the area, providing convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries. These clinics can help alleviate pressure on hospital emergency rooms.

**Specialty Clinics:** Numerous specialty clinics offer services such as physical therapy, rehabilitation, and diagnostic imaging. These clinics provide specialized care closer to home.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for the 03870 area is influenced by a combination of factors. The presence of two major hospitals, WDH and Portsmouth Regional, provides a degree of competition, which can drive quality improvements. Both hospitals have a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a baseline level of quality. The availability of specialty centers and telehealth services further enhances the score.

**Strengths of the 03870 Healthcare Landscape:**

* **Accessibility:** The presence of two major hospitals and numerous outpatient clinics provides good access to care.
* **Specialized Services:** Both WDH and Portsmouth Regional offer a range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
* **Telehealth Options:** The increasing availability of telehealth services improves access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.
* **Community Resources:** Community health centers and other community resources provide essential services to underserved populations.

**Weaknesses of the 03870 Healthcare Landscape:**

* **CMS Ratings:** The 3-star CMS ratings for both major hospitals suggest room for improvement in some quality areas.
* **ER Wait Times:** While generally within the national average, ER wait times can still be a concern for patients.
* **Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services can be a challenge in many areas, and the 03870 area is likely no exception.
* **Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare is a concern for many patients, and the 03870 area may be affected by rising healthcare costs.

**Factors Impacting the Score**

Several factors influence the overall health score for the 03870 area. These include:

* **Hospital Performance:** The quality of care provided by WDH and Portsmouth Regional has a significant impact.
* **Access to Care:** The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers is crucial.
* **Preventative Care:** The availability of preventative care services, such as screenings and vaccinations, can improve the overall health of the population.
* **Community Health:** The health of the community, including factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and environmental factors, can affect the overall health score.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The rate of health insurance coverage in the area influences access to care and health outcomes.

**Recommendations for Patients:**

* **Research and Compare:** Patients should research and compare the services offered by different hospitals and healthcare providers.
* **Check Real-Time Wait Times:** Patients should check real-time ER wait times before going to the emergency room.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Patients should consider using telehealth services for appropriate medical needs.
* **Ask Questions:** Patients should ask their healthcare providers questions about their care and treatment options.
* **Advocate for Yourself:** Patients should advocate for their healthcare needs and concerns.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for the 03870 area is positive, with access to multiple hospitals, specialty centers, and telehealth options. However, there is room for improvement, particularly in the areas of CMS ratings and ER wait times. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the quality and accessibility of care. Continuous monitoring of hospital performance, access to care, and community health factors is essential to maintain and improve the overall health score for the 03870 area.