03871, Rye Beach, New Hampshire Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 03871, Rye Beach, New Hampshire is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Portsmouth, NH (ZIP Code 03871)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Portsmouth, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03871) area, focusing on key metrics and offering a comprehensive picture of available care. The assessment considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Portsmouth area benefits from a mix of large, regional hospitals and smaller, community-focused facilities. Access to care is generally good, but understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each provider is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. This review aims to provide that clarity.

**Core Metrics: A Foundation for Assessment:**

Several core metrics form the basis of this "Overall Health Score" assessment. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system (1-5 stars) based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital performance.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** A critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Data from sources like ProPublica and individual hospital websites will be used to gauge average ER wait times.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology, is a key factor in determining a hospital's overall capabilities.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The increasing importance of telehealth, particularly for follow-up appointments and specialist consultations, will be evaluated.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**1. Portsmouth Regional Hospital (PRH) - Portsmouth, NH:**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a 209-bed facility, is the largest hospital in the immediate area. It is a part of HCA Healthcare. PRH currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a mixed performance across various quality indicators.

* **ER Performance:** ER wait times at PRH can vary. While specific, up-to-the-minute wait times are best found on their website, historical data suggests that average wait times are often in line with, or slightly above, the national average.
* **Specialty Services:** PRH boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and specialized cardiac care. They also have a well-regarded maternity unit and a dedicated cancer center.
* **Telehealth:** PRH has been expanding its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and some specialist consultations. They offer virtual visits for specific conditions and have integrated telehealth into some of their specialty clinics.

**2. Frisbie Memorial Hospital - Rochester, NH:**

Frisbie Memorial Hospital, located a short drive from Portsmouth, is a 112-bed facility. It is a part of HCA Healthcare. Frisbie currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

* **ER Performance:** ER wait times at Frisbie are often comparable to, or slightly shorter than, those at PRH. Specific wait times should be confirmed directly through the hospital or a reliable source.
* **Specialty Services:** Frisbie offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a dedicated women's health center. They also have a robust surgical program.
* **Telehealth:** Frisbie has been investing in telehealth services, offering virtual appointments and consultations in certain specialties.

**3. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital - Dover, NH:**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, located in Dover, NH, is another major regional hospital. It is a part of Mass General Brigham. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS.

* **ER Performance:** ER wait times at Wentworth-Douglass are often reported to be relatively moderate. Specific wait times can be found on their website.
* **Specialty Services:** Wentworth-Douglass provides a wide array of specialty services, including a comprehensive cancer center, cardiology, and a well-established orthopedic program.
* **Telehealth:** Wentworth-Douglass has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings, including virtual visits and remote monitoring programs.

**Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Care:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the Portsmouth area is served by a network of smaller facilities and outpatient clinics. These include:

* **Seacoast Orthopedics & Sports Medicine:** Offers specialized orthopedic care and rehabilitation services.
* **Atlantic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine:** Another provider of orthopedic care.
* **Various Urgent Care Centers:** Several urgent care centers provide convenient access to care for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Key Considerations for Choosing a Hospital:**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital:

* **Severity of Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies, the closest hospital with a trauma center is paramount. For less urgent needs, consider wait times and specialist availability.
* **Specialty Needs:** If you require specialized care (e.g., cardiology, oncology), research the hospitals with the strongest programs in that area.
* **Patient Experience:** Reviews and testimonials can provide insights into patient satisfaction and the overall care experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.

**Telehealth: A Growing Role:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery. It offers convenience, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth capabilities and whether they offer services that meet your needs.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

Based on the available data, here's a general overview of the hospitals serving the Portsmouth, NH (03871) area:

* **Portsmouth Regional Hospital:** Offers a comprehensive range of services and is the largest hospital in the immediate area. Its CMS rating is a 3-star rating. ER wait times can vary.
* **Frisbie Memorial Hospital:** Provides a good range of services. Its CMS rating is a 3-star rating. ER wait times are often comparable to PRH.
* **Wentworth-Douglass Hospital:** Holds a 4-star rating from CMS. Offers a wide array of specialty services.

**Disclaimer:**

This "Overall Health Score" review is based on publicly available data and should be considered a general guide. Hospital performance can fluctuate, and individual experiences may vary. Always consult with your physician and verify information directly with the hospitals before making healthcare decisions. ER wait times are dynamic and can change rapidly. This review is not a substitute for professional medical advice.