05352, Stamford, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05352, Stamford, Vermont is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Vermont's Finest Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05352

This review provides an in-depth analysis of the healthcare landscape for residents near the ZIP code 05352 (Townshend, Vermont) focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the available options, considering various factors crucial for informed healthcare decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

Residents of Townshend, Vermont, primarily rely on hospitals located in the surrounding areas. Given the rural nature of the region, the closest and most accessible options are a key consideration. The primary hospitals serving this area include:

* **Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (Brattleboro, VT):** This is likely the closest full-service hospital.
* **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):** While across the state line, Dartmouth Hitchcock is a major regional medical center and often a referral destination.
* **Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (Bennington, VT):** Located further west, it provides another potential option.

**Brattleboro Memorial Hospital: A Closer Look**

Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (BMH) is a critical access hospital, a designation that reflects its importance in providing essential healthcare services to a rural community. BMH is a community hospital with 61 beds. As of the latest available data, BMH does not have a CMS Star Rating. CMS star ratings are not assigned to critical access hospitals.

**Emergency Department Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical metric. Unfortunately, publicly available data on real-time ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check the hospital websites or call ahead to get the most up-to-date information. BMH's ER is generally considered accessible, but wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of cases.

**Specialized Services at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital:**

BMH offers a range of services, including:

* **Cancer Care:** BMH has a comprehensive cancer care program, including medical oncology and radiation therapy.
* **Surgical Services:** BMH offers a range of surgical procedures, including general surgery, orthopedics, and urology.
* **Women's Health:** BMH provides obstetrical and gynecological care.
* **Behavioral Health:** BMH offers behavioral health services, including inpatient and outpatient mental health care.
* **Cardiac Care:** BMH offers cardiac services, including diagnostic testing and cardiac rehabilitation.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major academic medical center and a significant referral center for the region. It's a Level I Trauma Center, which means it has the highest level of readiness to treat critically injured patients. DHMC has a 4-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Department Performance at Dartmouth Hitchcock:**

DHMC's ER is generally well-equipped and staffed. However, as a major referral center, it can experience longer wait times, particularly during peak hours. Real-time wait times are available on the DHMC website.

**Specialized Services at Dartmouth Hitchcock:**

DHMC offers a vast array of specialized services, including:

* **Cancer Center:** The Norris Cotton Cancer Center at DHMC is a nationally recognized cancer center.
* **Heart and Vascular Center:** DHMC has a comprehensive heart and vascular center offering advanced cardiac care.
* **Neuroscience Institute:** DHMC's Neuroscience Institute provides care for neurological conditions.
* **Transplant Services:** DHMC offers transplant services, including kidney, liver, and heart transplants.
* **Children's Hospital at Dartmouth (CHaD):** CHaD provides specialized pediatric care.

**Telehealth at Dartmouth Hitchcock:**

DHMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services across various specialties. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital. DHMC has been a leader in telehealth, expanding access to care for a wide range of conditions.

**Southwestern Vermont Medical Center: Another Choice**

Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) in Bennington, Vermont, is another option for residents near 05352. SVMC has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Department Performance at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center:**

SVMC's ER provides emergency care. Wait times can vary, and it's advisable to check their website or call ahead for current information.

**Specialized Services at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center:**

SVMC offers a range of services, including:

* **Cancer Care:** SVMC has a cancer center providing comprehensive cancer care.
* **Surgical Services:** SVMC offers surgical services, including general surgery and orthopedics.
* **Women's Health:** SVMC provides obstetrical and gynecological care.
* **Behavioral Health:** SVMC offers behavioral health services.

**Telehealth at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center:**

SVMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility is a major factor in rural healthcare. Residents of 05352 should consider:

* **Driving Distance:** The driving distance to each hospital is a primary consideration.
* **Public Transportation:** Public transportation options are limited in this area.
* **Emergency Medical Services (EMS):** The efficiency of EMS response times is crucial in emergencies.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

When evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 05352, several factors are weighted:

* **Quality of Care:** CMS star ratings (where available), patient outcomes, and adherence to best practices.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity, wait times, and ease of access to services.
* **Specialized Services:** Availability of specialized care, such as cancer treatment, cardiac care, and behavioral health services.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The availability of telehealth services to improve access to care.
* **Cost:** While not directly evaluated in this review, the cost of care is a critical factor for patients.

**Making an Informed Choice:**

Residents of 05352 should consider their individual healthcare needs when choosing a hospital. Factors to consider include:

* **Primary Care Physician (PCP) Affiliation:** Where does your PCP have privileges?
* **Specialty Needs:** Do you have specific medical needs that require specialized care?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Which hospitals are covered by your insurance plan?
* **Personal Preferences:** Do you prefer a smaller community hospital or a larger academic medical center?

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near 05352 offers a range of options, from the community-focused Brattleboro Memorial Hospital to the regional expertise of Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and the services provided by Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. Each hospital has its strengths and weaknesses. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a healthcare provider. While BMH is the closest, DHMC offers a wider array of specialized services. SVMC provides another option for those further west. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The "Overall Health Score" is ultimately a subjective assessment based on the individual's needs and priorities.