05641, Barre, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05641, Barre, Vermont is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05641 (Central Vermont)

This report provides an in-depth analysis of the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 05641, encompassing the central Vermont region. We’ll examine the key hospitals, focusing on their performance metrics, specialized services, and accessibility, ultimately offering an “Overall Health Score” based on available data. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather a composite assessment based on publicly available information.

**The Major Players: Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) and Beyond**

The primary hospital serving the 05641 area is Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC) in Berlin, VT. As the dominant healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity, CVMC is a crucial point of access for residents. However, the surrounding region also benefits from access to other facilities, including Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH, and the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, VT, which offer a broader range of specialized services.

**Central Vermont Medical Center: A Closer Look**

Central Vermont Medical Center, part of the University of Vermont Health Network, is a 122-bed community hospital. It's a critical access hospital, meaning it serves a rural population and receives specific financial support. While a direct CMS Star Rating for CVMC is not currently available, the UVM Health Network as a whole has received mixed reviews in the past, highlighting the importance of individual hospital performance.

CVMC offers a comprehensive suite of services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and inpatient care. The hospital's emergency room is a key resource for the community, and understanding its performance is vital. However, publicly available data on ER wait times can be limited and may vary depending on the source. It's recommended to consult the hospital's website or local reporting for the most up-to-date information.

CVMC has a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center and offers a range of cancer treatment options. The orthopedics department provides services for joint replacements and sports injuries. The availability of these specialty services within the community reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for care.

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. CVMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing remote consultations and follow-up appointments. This is especially beneficial for patients in remote areas who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital. The hospital's telehealth capabilities include remote monitoring of chronic conditions and mental health services.

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

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located approximately 60 miles from 05641 in Lebanon, NH, serves as a regional referral center. DHMC is a large, tertiary care facility offering a wide array of specialized services not always available at smaller community hospitals. It's a teaching hospital affiliated with the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.

DHMC typically has a higher CMS Star Rating than smaller hospitals, reflecting its resources and capabilities. The hospital's ER wait times are variable, and it's crucial to check real-time data, available on their website, to assess current conditions.

DHMC excels in several specialty areas. The hospital is known for its advanced cancer treatment center, comprehensive heart and vascular programs, and robust transplant services. It also provides specialized care for children through the Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD). DHMC's expertise in these areas makes it a crucial resource for patients with complex medical needs.

Telehealth is a significant component of DHMC's service delivery. The hospital offers a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education. This allows patients to access specialized care without having to travel long distances.

**University of Vermont Medical Center: A State-Wide Resource**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, VT, is another significant healthcare provider for the region. Located approximately 60 miles from 05641, UVMMC is the state's only academic medical center and a major referral hospital. It's a Level I trauma center, equipped to handle the most critical medical emergencies.

UVMMC typically has a high CMS Star Rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. ER wait times at UVMMC can vary depending on the volume of patients, and it's important to check real-time data before visiting.

UVMMC offers an extensive range of specialty services, including advanced cancer treatment, complex cardiac procedures, and specialized neurological care. The hospital is a leader in research and innovation, constantly seeking new and improved treatments. UVMMC also has a dedicated children's hospital, the UVM Children's Hospital, providing comprehensive pediatric care.

Telehealth is an integral part of UVMMC's operations. The hospital offers a wide variety of telehealth services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and remote consultations with specialists. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Urgent Care**

In addition to the major hospitals, the 05641 area may have access to smaller clinics, urgent care centers, and specialized practices. These facilities can provide convenient access to primary care, urgent care, and specialized services. The availability of these resources can vary, and it's essential to research the specific services offered by each facility.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Creating a single "Overall Health Score" is complex. It requires balancing various factors, including hospital ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth offerings. Here’s a preliminary assessment based on available data:

* **Access to Care:** The presence of CVMC as a primary care provider is a significant advantage. Proximity to DHMC and UVMMC provides access to advanced specialty care. This creates a relatively strong foundation for access to care.
* **Quality of Care:** While CVMC's performance is not directly reflected in a CMS Star Rating, the regional availability of DHMC and UVMMC, both with strong reputations, suggests a high overall quality of care.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other specialty services at CVMC, DHMC, and UVMMC provides a comprehensive range of care options.
* **Telehealth:** The increasing availability of telehealth services at CVMC, DHMC, and UVMMC is a significant benefit, especially for residents in rural areas.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor. It's essential to consult real-time data from each hospital to assess current conditions.

**Overall, the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 05641 appears to be strong. The presence of a community hospital like CVMC, combined with access to regional referral centers like DHMC and UVMMC, provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services. The increasing availability of telehealth further enhances accessibility. However, it's crucial for residents to stay informed about ER wait times and to research the specific services offered by each facility to make informed healthcare decisions.**

**Disclaimer:** This report is based on publicly available data and is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Hospital performance metrics can change, so it is essential to consult the most up-to-date information from the hospitals themselves or reliable sources.