05041, East Randolph, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05041, East Randolph, Vermont is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Hartford, VT (ZIP Code 05041)

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents of Hartford, Vermont (ZIP code 05041), understanding the local hospital landscape is crucial for informed decision-making. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment of the key hospitals serving the area, considering factors from CMS star ratings and ER wait times to specialty centers and telehealth availability. The aim is to offer a clear, fact-rich overview, helping residents make informed choices about their healthcare needs.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH): The Regional Powerhouse**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, just across the state line from Hartford, VT, is the dominant healthcare provider in the region. DHMC serves as a major referral center, attracting patients from across Vermont and New Hampshire. Its sheer size and comprehensive services make it a cornerstone of the area's healthcare ecosystem.

DHMC is a flagship hospital, boasting a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This high rating reflects DHMC's commitment to quality and patient safety. The hospital excels in various areas, including patient outcomes, readmission rates, and patient experience. The CMS star rating is a significant indicator of overall hospital performance.

Emergency room wait times at DHMC fluctuate, but generally, patients can expect to be seen within a reasonable timeframe. The hospital’s ER is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, from minor injuries to critical illnesses. DHMC’s ER is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most severe trauma cases. This designation underscores its capacity to provide immediate and comprehensive care for critically injured patients.

DHMC houses a vast array of specialty centers. These include the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, a nationally recognized cancer treatment facility offering cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials. The hospital also features specialized centers for cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and women's health. DHMC's advanced facilities and expert medical teams provide access to specialized care that might not be available at smaller hospitals.

Telehealth services are a prominent feature at DHMC. The hospital has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments or routine consultations. Telehealth adoption has increased significantly in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and DHMC has been at the forefront of this trend.

**Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (Lebanon, NH): A Community Focus**

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD), also located in Lebanon, NH, offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. While smaller than DHMC, APD plays a vital role in providing accessible and personalized care to the region.

APD has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a strong performance in patient care and safety. The hospital consistently receives positive feedback for its patient experience, highlighting the staff's dedication to providing compassionate and attentive care.

Emergency room wait times at APD are generally shorter than at DHMC, making it an attractive option for patients seeking prompt medical attention. The ER is well-equipped to handle a variety of medical conditions, providing efficient and effective care.

APD offers a range of specialty services, including orthopedics, cardiology, and women's health. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized centers as DHMC, APD provides essential services and often offers a more intimate and personalized care experience.

Telehealth services are also available at APD, although the scope may be more limited compared to DHMC. APD utilizes telehealth for certain consultations and follow-up appointments, providing patients with convenient access to care.

**Gifford Medical Center (Randolph, VT): Serving Vermont Communities**

Gifford Medical Center, located in Randolph, Vermont, is a critical access hospital serving the local Vermont communities. While slightly further from Hartford than the New Hampshire hospitals, it remains a key healthcare option for residents.

Gifford Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating indicates that the hospital provides adequate care and meets the basic requirements for patient safety and quality.

Emergency room wait times at Gifford Medical Center can vary, but generally, patients can expect to be seen within a reasonable timeframe. The ER is equipped to handle a variety of medical emergencies, providing essential care to the community.

Gifford Medical Center offers a range of specialty services, including primary care, cardiology, and behavioral health. The hospital's focus is on providing comprehensive care to the community, with a strong emphasis on primary care and preventative services.

Telehealth services are available at Gifford Medical Center, providing patients with convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital has embraced telehealth to improve access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas.

**Comparing the Options: A Scorecard Approach**

To provide a clearer "Overall Health Score" assessment, we can compare the hospitals based on key metrics:

* **CMS Star Rating:** DHMC (5 stars), APD (4 stars), Gifford (3 stars). This reflects the overall quality and performance of the hospitals, with DHMC leading the way.
* **ER Wait Times:** APD generally has the shortest wait times, followed by Gifford, then DHMC.
* **Specialty Centers:** DHMC offers the most comprehensive range of specialized services, followed by APD and Gifford.
* **Telehealth Availability:** All three hospitals offer telehealth services, with DHMC having the most developed infrastructure.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC):** Receives a high "Overall Health Score" due to its 5-star CMS rating, comprehensive specialty centers, and robust telehealth infrastructure. While ER wait times can be longer, the hospital's commitment to quality and its ability to handle complex medical cases make it a top choice for many residents.

**Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (APD):** Earns a solid "Overall Health Score," particularly for its shorter ER wait times and strong patient experience. Its 4-star CMS rating and focus on community-based care make it a valuable option for those seeking a more personalized approach.

**Gifford Medical Center:** Receives a respectable "Overall Health Score," reflecting its role as a critical access hospital serving the local community. While its CMS rating is lower, Gifford provides essential services and focuses on primary care and preventative services.

**Factors to Consider for Hartford, VT Residents:**

For residents of Hartford, VT (05041), the choice of hospital depends on individual needs and preferences.

* **For complex medical conditions or specialized care:** DHMC is the clear leader, offering the most comprehensive range of services and advanced technologies.
* **For quicker ER access or a more community-focused approach:** APD is a strong option.
* **For convenient access and local care:** Gifford Medical Center is a viable choice, particularly for primary care and preventative services.
* **Telehealth:** All three hospitals offer telehealth options, providing convenient access to care.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near Hartford, VT, offers a range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. DHMC stands out as a regional powerhouse, while APD and Gifford provide valuable community-based care. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents of 05041 can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, ensuring they receive the best possible care for their individual circumstances. The CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability are all important factors to weigh when choosing a hospital. Regular updates on hospital performance and services are recommended to stay informed about the evolving healthcare landscape.