05656, Johnson, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05656, Johnson, Vermont is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05656 (Vermont)

This review assesses the healthcare landscape surrounding the ZIP code 05656, which encompasses the town of Stowe, Vermont, a region known for its outdoor recreation and growing population. We'll delve into the available hospitals, their performance metrics, and the accessibility of care, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on a comprehensive evaluation. This score is a subjective assessment, reflecting the availability, quality, and accessibility of healthcare options in the area.

**The Landscape: Limited but Focused**

The immediate vicinity of Stowe doesn't boast a sprawling network of hospitals like some urban areas. The healthcare landscape is characterized by a more rural approach, emphasizing community-based care and access to specialized services through affiliations with larger regional medical centers. The primary hospital serving the area is **Copley Hospital** in Morrisville, Vermont, approximately 15 minutes from Stowe. Other options require a longer drive, including the **University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM Medical Center)** in Burlington (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) and **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center** in Lebanon, New Hampshire (approximately 2 hours).

**Copley Hospital: The Community Anchor**

Copley Hospital is the closest and most readily accessible hospital for residents of Stowe. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives federal funding to support rural healthcare needs. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating, reflecting the limitations of the rating system for smaller facilities, Copley Hospital provides essential services including emergency care, inpatient medical and surgical care, and a range of outpatient clinics. It is a member of the University of Vermont Health Network, which provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

**Emergency Room Performance at Copley:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency and responsiveness. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources can provide a general picture. Copley Hospital, being a smaller facility, generally experiences shorter wait times compared to larger, urban hospitals. However, wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the cases presenting to the ER. It's recommended to check real-time wait times on hospital websites or third-party platforms before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Services at Copley:**

Copley Hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, general surgery, and women's health. It has a strong focus on primary care and offers various outpatient clinics, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. The hospital's affiliation with the UVM Health Network allows patients to access specialists and advanced treatments through referrals.

**UVM Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

The UVM Medical Center in Burlington is a major tertiary care center and the flagship hospital for the UVM Health Network. It is a Level I trauma center, offering comprehensive medical services and advanced treatments. While it is a longer drive from Stowe, it is a crucial resource for complex medical needs.

**UVM Medical Center's CMS Star Rating:**

The UVM Medical Center has a CMS star rating. The rating is a composite score based on several factors, including patient experience, mortality rates, safety of care, and readmission rates. CMS star ratings are dynamic and can change over time. The most recent rating should be consulted for the most up-to-date assessment.

**Specialty Centers at UVM Medical Center:**

UVM Medical Center boasts numerous specialty centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular center, a neuroscience center, and a children's hospital. It offers advanced treatments and cutting-edge research in various medical fields. The hospital's affiliation with the University of Vermont also provides access to academic resources and clinical trials.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center: Another Option**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is another regional healthcare provider that serves the area. It is a tertiary care center and a major teaching hospital. It is approximately a two-hour drive from Stowe.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock's CMS Star Rating:**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center also has a CMS star rating. The rating provides an overview of the hospital's performance across various quality metrics. The most recent rating should be consulted for the most up-to-date assessment.

**Specialty Services at Dartmouth Hitchcock:**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center offers a wide range of specialty services, including cancer care, cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. It is known for its expertise in complex medical cases and its commitment to research and innovation.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth and virtual care have become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Both Copley Hospital and the UVM Health Network have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing patients with remote access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. This is particularly beneficial for residents of Stowe, who may face challenges accessing in-person appointments due to travel distances or weather conditions.

**Telehealth Stats:**

Specific statistics on telehealth utilization can vary. However, the UVM Health Network, as a larger system, likely has more extensive telehealth programs. Look for data on the number of telehealth visits, the types of services offered, and patient satisfaction rates.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility is a key consideration in a rural area. Public transportation options in Stowe and the surrounding areas are limited. Residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation to medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft may be limited in the area.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP code 05656 is **Good, with caveats**.

* **Strengths:** Access to a community hospital (Copley Hospital) providing essential services; access to a larger regional network (UVM Health Network) for specialized care; increasing availability of telehealth services; access to two additional large regional hospitals (Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and UVM Medical Center) for more specialized care.

* **Weaknesses:** Limited immediate hospital options; reliance on travel for specialized care; potential for longer travel times to access tertiary care; limited public transportation options.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Continued Investment in Telehealth:** Expanding telehealth services, including remote monitoring and virtual specialist consultations, would enhance access to care for residents.
* **Strengthening Community Partnerships:** Collaborations between Copley Hospital and local primary care providers can improve care coordination and access to preventive services.
* **Improving Transportation Options:** Exploring options for transportation assistance for medical appointments, such as subsidized transportation or partnerships with volunteer driver programs, would benefit residents.
* **Promoting Health Education:** Providing health education and wellness programs can empower residents to proactively manage their health and prevent chronic diseases.

**Conclusion:**

While the healthcare landscape near Stowe, Vermont, is characterized by a rural setting, residents have access to essential services through Copley Hospital and can access specialized care through affiliations with larger regional medical centers. The increasing availability of telehealth services offers a valuable tool for improving access to care. By addressing the challenges of accessibility and transportation, and by investing in community-based healthcare initiatives, the healthcare system can continue to evolve to meet the needs of the growing population in the area.