05763, Pittsford, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05763, Pittsford, Vermont is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05763 (Rutland, Vermont)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Rutland, Vermont area (ZIP Code 05763), focusing on key metrics to aid informed decision-making. This score considers factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape: Rutland Regional Medical Center**

The primary healthcare provider for Rutland and the surrounding region is Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC). Located directly within the ZIP code, RRMC is the cornerstone of local healthcare. RRMC is a 143-bed community hospital offering a comprehensive range of services.

**Quality Ratings: A Mixed Bag**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a snapshot of quality. RRMC currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety of care, and effectiveness of care. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to delve deeper into the specific areas where RRMC excels and where it may face challenges.

**Emergency Department: Wait Times and Performance**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical factor for patients. RRMC's ER sees a significant volume of patients, and wait times fluctuate. While specific real-time wait times can vary considerably depending on the time of day and patient volume, it's important to note that longer wait times can indicate higher patient volume and potentially strained resources. Patients should be aware of the potential for delays and consider alternative options for non-life-threatening conditions. Data on average ER wait times is publicly available through sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Specialty Centers and Services: A Focus on Community Needs**

RRMC offers a range of specialty centers and services tailored to the needs of the Rutland community. These include:

* **The Foley Cancer Center:** This center provides comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services.
* **The Birthing Center:** RRMC's birthing center offers maternity care, including labor and delivery services.
* **The Heart Center:** RRMC's heart center provides cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and treatment for heart conditions.
* **Orthopedics:** RRMC has an orthopedic department that offers surgical and non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. RRMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities to provide remote consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients in remote areas or those with mobility issues. Telehealth services can improve access to specialists and reduce the need for in-person visits. The availability and scope of telehealth services continue to evolve, and patients should inquire about the specific telehealth options offered by RRMC.

**Beyond RRMC: Exploring Other Options**

While RRMC is the primary hospital, residents of the 05763 ZIP code may also consider hospitals outside the immediate area, particularly for specialized care or if seeking a different healthcare experience.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH): A Regional Powerhouse**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major regional medical center. While not directly within the 05763 ZIP code, DHMC is a significant option for residents of the area. It is approximately a 1-hour drive from Rutland. DHMC is a large academic medical center with a wide range of specialties and advanced technologies. DHMC consistently receives high ratings and is a leading provider of care in the region.

**Quality Ratings: A Strong Showing**

DHMC typically receives high ratings from CMS and other quality assessment organizations. DHMC's reputation for quality and patient safety is well-established. It is important to note that these ratings reflect the overall performance of the hospital, and specific departments or services may have varying levels of performance.

**Emergency Department: Performance and Considerations**

DHMC's ER is a high-volume facility. Wait times can vary, and patients should be prepared for potential delays. The hospital's website and other online resources provide information on current wait times. Patients should carefully consider their condition and the potential wait time when deciding whether to seek care at DHMC's ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services: A Wide Range of Expertise**

DHMC offers a comprehensive array of specialty centers and services, including:

* **The Dartmouth Cancer Center:** This center provides advanced cancer treatment and research.
* **The Heart and Vascular Center:** DHMC's heart center offers comprehensive cardiac care, including complex procedures.
* **The Norris Cotton Cancer Center:** This is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center.
* **Specialized Surgical Services:** DHMC offers a wide range of surgical specialties, including neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and transplant services.

**Telehealth: Expanding Reach**

DHMC has a robust telehealth program, offering remote consultations, monitoring, and follow-up care. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas and those who may have difficulty traveling to the hospital. The availability and scope of telehealth services continue to expand.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Travel**

When considering hospitals outside the immediate area, such as DHMC, accessibility and travel time are important factors. The drive from Rutland to Lebanon, NH, is approximately one hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Patients should factor in travel time when making healthcare decisions, especially in emergency situations.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

**Rutland Regional Medical Center:** RRMC provides essential healthcare services to the Rutland community. Its 3-star CMS rating indicates average performance. The availability of specialty centers, including the Foley Cancer Center and the Birthing Center, is a significant asset. ER wait times should be considered, and patients should be aware of the potential for delays. RRMC's telehealth initiatives are a positive step towards expanding access to care.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center:** DHMC offers a higher level of specialized care and consistently receives high quality ratings. Its comprehensive services, including the Dartmouth Cancer Center and the Heart and Vascular Center, make it a strong option for patients seeking advanced care. The approximately one-hour travel time from Rutland is a factor to consider. DHMC's robust telehealth program further enhances its accessibility.

**Recommendations:**

* **For routine care and common medical needs:** RRMC is the primary choice.
* **For specialized care and complex medical conditions:** DHMC is a strong option, but travel time should be considered.
* **For emergency situations:** Consider the severity of the condition and the potential wait times at both RRMC and DHMC.
* **For telehealth options:** Explore the telehealth services offered by both hospitals to improve access to care.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials online to get insights into the patient experience at both hospitals.

**Disclaimer:** This "Overall Health Score" review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Hospital ratings and performance metrics are subject to change. Always verify information with the hospitals directly.