05052, North Hartland, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05052, North Hartland, Vermont is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05052 (Woodstock, VT)

The picturesque town of Woodstock, Vermont, nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. While the area boasts a strong community spirit and a focus on wellness, the rural setting necessitates careful consideration of hospital options. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of the primary hospitals serving the 05052 ZIP code, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and overall patient experience. Due to the limited geographic scope, the focus is on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, primarily in Vermont and bordering New Hampshire.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 05052 ZIP code is primarily served by a network of smaller community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity is a crucial factor, as travel times can be significant in this mountainous region, especially during inclement weather. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and advanced surgical procedures, is often centralized at larger facilities. Telehealth services are increasingly important in bridging geographical gaps and providing access to specialists.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance:**

**1. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is the flagship hospital for the Dartmouth Health system and a major regional referral center. It is the closest major hospital to Woodstock, VT. DHMC consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive services and advanced medical capabilities. DHMC is a teaching hospital and is affiliated with the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.

**CMS Star Rating:** DHMC currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a good overall performance in areas like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not a perfect score, it indicates a strong commitment to quality.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** DHMC's ER wait times are generally reported to be within the national average, but can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Real-time wait times are often available on the hospital's website and through third-party platforms.

**Specialty Centers:** DHMC boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, the Dartmouth Hitchcock Heart and Vascular Center, and the Dartmouth Hitchcock Orthopaedics Center. These centers offer cutting-edge treatments and a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

**Telehealth Services:** DHMC is a leader in telehealth, offering a comprehensive range of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online educational resources. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at DHMC are generally positive, reflecting a focus on patient-centered care. The hospital has implemented various initiatives to improve communication, enhance the patient experience, and address patient concerns.

**Overall Health Score (DHMC): 9/10** - DHMC offers a high level of care, a wide range of specialties, and a strong commitment to telehealth. Its proximity to Woodstock and its overall performance make it a top choice for residents in the area.

**2. Gifford Medical Center (Randolph, VT):**

Gifford Medical Center, located in Randolph, Vermont, is a critical access hospital serving a large rural area. While not a large tertiary care center, it provides essential services to the local community.

**CMS Star Rating:** Gifford Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS. This reflects an adequate level of care but indicates areas where improvement is needed.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at Gifford Medical Center are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals, reflecting a lower patient volume.

**Specialty Centers:** Gifford offers a range of primary care, general surgery, and specialized services, including cardiology and rehabilitation. However, it does not have the same breadth of specialized centers as DHMC.

**Telehealth Services:** Gifford Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs to improve access to care for patients in the area.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction at Gifford Medical Center is generally positive, reflecting a focus on community-based care.

**Overall Health Score (Gifford Medical Center): 7/10** - Gifford provides essential services and is a valuable resource for the local community. Its proximity to Woodstock and its commitment to rural healthcare make it a good option for many residents.

**3. Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center (Windsor, VT):**

Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center, located in Windsor, Vermont, is a community hospital that provides a range of services to the surrounding area. It is part of the Dartmouth Health system, providing some integration with DHMC.

**CMS Star Rating:** Mt. Ascutney Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times are typically shorter than those at DHMC, but can vary.

**Specialty Centers:** Mt. Ascutney offers a range of primary care, general surgery, and specialized services, including cardiology and rehabilitation.

**Telehealth Services:** Mt. Ascutney Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs to improve access to care for patients in the area.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction at Mt. Ascutney Hospital is generally positive, reflecting a focus on community-based care.

**Overall Health Score (Mt. Ascutney Hospital): 7/10** - Mt. Ascutney offers essential services and is a valuable resource for the local community. Its proximity to Woodstock and its connection to DHMC make it a good option for many residents.

**4. Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (Lebanon, NH):**

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital, also located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a community hospital affiliated with Dartmouth Health. It offers a range of services, including primary care, specialty care, and surgical services.

**CMS Star Rating:** Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times are generally shorter than those at DHMC.

**Specialty Centers:** Alice Peck Day offers a range of primary care, general surgery, and specialized services.

**Telehealth Services:** Alice Peck Day offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction at Alice Peck Day is generally positive.

**Overall Health Score (Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital): 6/10** - Alice Peck Day offers essential services and is a valuable resource for the local community.

**Considerations for the 05052 ZIP Code:**

Residents of Woodstock, VT, have a good selection of healthcare options, but should consider their individual needs and circumstances.

* **Proximity and Travel Time:** DHMC is the closest major hospital, offering a wide range of services. However, travel times can be affected by weather conditions. Gifford Medical Center and Mt. Ascutney Hospital are closer options for those seeking more immediate care.
* **Specialty Needs:** Patients with complex medical conditions may benefit from the specialized services available at DHMC.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth is a valuable resource for residents in rural areas, providing access to specialists and reducing the need for travel.
* **Patient Preferences:** Personal preferences regarding hospital size, patient experience, and community involvement should be considered.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the 05052 ZIP code, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center is the top choice, offering a comprehensive range of services, advanced medical capabilities, and a strong commitment to telehealth. Gifford Medical Center and Mt. Ascutney Hospital provide essential services to the local community. Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital is another option. Residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences when selecting a hospital. Regular check-ups, preventative care, and open communication with healthcare providers are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region.