05652, Eden, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05652, Eden, Vermont is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05652 (Vermont)

This review provides an in-depth look at the healthcare landscape surrounding the ZIP code 05652, which encompasses the town of Stowe, Vermont, a popular destination for outdoor recreation. We'll analyze the major hospitals serving this area, focusing on key metrics that contribute to an "Overall Health Score," including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is designed to help residents and visitors make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Access**

Stowe, Vermont, is somewhat geographically isolated, meaning access to healthcare is primarily dictated by the proximity of hospitals in the surrounding areas. The primary hospital serving the region is **Copley Hospital** in Morrisville, VT. Other hospitals that are within a reasonable driving distance include **University of Vermont Medical Center** in Burlington, VT, and **Central Vermont Medical Center** in Berlin, VT. The choice of hospital will often depend on the severity of the condition, the need for specialized care, and personal preferences.

**Copley Hospital: The Local Hub**

Copley Hospital, located in Morrisville, VT, is the closest hospital to Stowe (approximately 15-20 minutes driving). As a critical access hospital, Copley offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and a variety of specialty clinics. Copley Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across several key areas, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While not the highest rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

**Emergency Room Performance at Copley Hospital**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency. While publicly available data can vary, Copley Hospital generally reports ER wait times that are in line with or slightly better than the national average for similar-sized hospitals. However, wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Services at Copley Hospital**

Copley Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. They also have a dedicated birthing center. These services are essential for the local community, providing access to specialized care without requiring long travel times. The hospital also has a strong focus on primary care, with several affiliated practices in the surrounding area.

**Telehealth at Copley Hospital**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Stowe. Copley Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, allowing patients to access certain consultations and follow-up appointments remotely. This is especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or who live a distance from the hospital. The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specialty and the patient's needs.

**University of Vermont Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM Medical Center), located in Burlington, VT (approximately 1-hour drive from Stowe), is a major tertiary care center and the flagship hospital of the UVM Health Network. UVM Medical Center is a much larger hospital than Copley, offering a wider array of specialized services and advanced medical technology. UVM Medical Center currently holds a **3-star rating from CMS**.

**Emergency Room Performance at UVM Medical Center**

Given its size and the complexity of the cases it handles, UVM Medical Center's ER wait times can be longer than those at Copley Hospital. It is a Level I Trauma Center, which means it is equipped to handle the most severe emergencies. Wait times can be particularly high during peak hours and during times of increased demand. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially if their condition is not considered life-threatening.

**Specialty Services at UVM Medical Center**

UVM Medical Center boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services, including advanced cardiology, oncology, neurology, and transplant services. It is a teaching hospital, which means it is affiliated with the University of Vermont College of Medicine and provides training for medical students and residents. This often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and research. The hospital also has specialized centers for cancer care, heart and vascular health, and women's health.

**Telehealth at UVM Medical Center**

UVM Medical Center has made significant investments in telehealth. They offer a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Telehealth is particularly useful for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available in the Stowe area.

**Central Vermont Medical Center: Another Option**

Central Vermont Medical Center (CVMC), located in Berlin, VT (approximately 1-hour drive from Stowe), is another option for healthcare. CVMC is a community hospital that provides a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and specialty clinics. CVMC currently holds a **3-star rating from CMS**.

**Emergency Room Performance at CVMC**

ER wait times at CVMC are typically shorter than those at UVM Medical Center, but can still vary. The hospital strives to provide timely care, but wait times are influenced by patient volume and the severity of the cases.

**Specialty Services at CVMC**

CVMC offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It also has a cancer center and a birthing center. While it may not have the breadth of services offered by UVM Medical Center, it provides essential care for the local community.

**Telehealth at CVMC**

CVMC has also expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. Telehealth is particularly useful for patients who live in rural areas or who have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Other Considerations: Access and Patient Experience**

Beyond the specific metrics, several other factors contribute to the overall health score. These include:

* **Accessibility:** The ease of getting to a hospital, including travel time and availability of transportation. In Stowe, this is particularly relevant due to the seasonal nature of tourism and potential for traffic congestion.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys, which measure factors such as communication with doctors and nurses, cleanliness of the facilities, and overall satisfaction with the care received.
* **Quality of Care:** This encompasses a range of factors, including infection rates, readmission rates, and adherence to best practices.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The hospitals near ZIP code 05652 provide a range of healthcare options. Copley Hospital offers convenient access to essential services, while UVM Medical Center provides access to more specialized care. Central Vermont Medical Center offers another option for local residents. CMS star ratings provide a general indication of quality, but it's essential to consider individual needs and preferences. ER wait times can vary, and telehealth services are becoming increasingly important for remote access to care. Patients should research their options, consider their individual needs, and consult with their primary care physicians to determine the best healthcare provider for them. The "Overall Health Score" is not a single number, but rather a composite of factors that must be weighed to make an informed decision.