05769, Salisbury, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05769, Salisbury, Vermont is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Rutland, Vermont (ZIP Code 05769)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Rutland, Vermont (ZIP Code 05769), understanding the quality and accessibility of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" based on various factors, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty offerings, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a clear picture of the available healthcare options, enabling informed decisions about medical care.

**The Primary Contender: Rutland Regional Medical Center**

The dominant healthcare provider in the area is Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC), located directly within the 05769 ZIP code. RRMC is a 188-bed community hospital serving a wide region of central Vermont and parts of New York State. This is the flagship institution, and its performance heavily influences the overall health score for the area.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics:**

RRMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. The CMS star rating system evaluates hospitals on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Examining the specific data behind the rating is crucial. RRMC generally performs well in areas like pneumonia vaccination and stroke care. However, areas for improvement exist, particularly in preventing complications and reducing hospital readmission rates.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical factor in assessing hospital accessibility. RRMC's ER wait times are generally reported to be in line with the national average, but can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Data from the hospital’s website and third-party sources should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

RRMC boasts a comprehensive range of specialty services. The hospital features a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation. Its cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including radiation oncology and chemotherapy. Orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine, are also well-established. RRMC also offers a full-service obstetrics and gynecology department. The hospital’s commitment to these specialties contributes significantly to the overall health score.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. RRMC has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for certain specialties and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients in remote locations, reducing the need for travel. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities, which positively impacts the overall health score. The availability of digital patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers also contributes to a more patient-centered experience.

**Other Considerations for RRMC:**

RRMC has a strong commitment to community outreach and education. The hospital actively participates in health fairs and offers various community health programs. The hospital's financial stability and its ability to invest in new technologies and services are also important factors.

**Alternative Options: Limited, but Present**

While RRMC is the primary healthcare provider, alternative options exist, though they are geographically further away. Residents of 05769 may consider hospitals in neighboring areas, though travel time and accessibility become significant factors.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):**

Located approximately 70 miles from Rutland, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major tertiary care center. DHMC boasts a 5-star CMS rating, indicating a high level of quality and patient care. It offers a wide range of specialized services, including advanced cancer treatment, complex surgery, and specialized cardiology. However, the distance and travel time are significant drawbacks for residents of 05769.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT):**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), located in Burlington, Vermont, is another tertiary care center, approximately 90 miles from Rutland. UVMMC also offers a comprehensive range of services and is a teaching hospital. Like DHMC, the distance and travel time are crucial considerations.

**Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Clinics:**

Smaller hospitals and urgent care clinics may be available in nearby towns, offering more immediate care for less serious conditions. However, they typically lack the specialized services and resources of larger hospitals. These options can be useful for minor injuries and illnesses, but they may require referral to RRMC or a larger hospital for more complex medical needs.

**Overall Health Score Assessment for 05769:**

The overall health score for residents of 05769 is heavily influenced by RRMC. While RRMC provides a comprehensive range of services and is the primary healthcare provider, its 3-star CMS rating indicates areas for improvement. The ER wait times are generally acceptable, but can fluctuate. The strong specialty offerings, including cardiology, cancer care, and orthopedics, contribute positively to the score. RRMC's embrace of telehealth is also a positive factor.

The availability of alternative options, such as DHMC and UVMMC, provides access to higher levels of care, but the distance and travel time are significant limitations. The presence of smaller hospitals and urgent care clinics offers convenient options for less serious conditions.

**Recommendations for 05769 Residents:**

* **Prioritize RRMC:** RRMC is the primary healthcare provider and should be the first point of contact for most medical needs.
* **Research and Compare:** Before making healthcare decisions, research the specific services offered by RRMC and compare them to the services offered by DHMC and UVMMC, considering travel time and potential wait times.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Take advantage of RRMC's telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Understand ER Wait Times:** Be aware of potential ER wait times and consider urgent care clinics for less serious conditions.
* **Stay Informed:** Regularly check the hospital's website and other reliable sources for the most up-to-date information on wait times, services, and quality metrics.
* **Advocate for Improvement:** Encourage RRMC to continue improving its quality metrics and expand its telehealth offerings.
* **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Ensure adequate health insurance coverage to access the full range of healthcare services, including specialized care at DHMC or UVMMC if needed.
* **Plan for Travel:** If specialized care is required at DHMC or UVMMC, factor in travel time and potential logistical challenges.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of 05769 is solid, anchored by RRMC's comprehensive services. However, the 3-star CMS rating highlights areas for improvement. Residents should proactively manage their healthcare by researching their options, utilizing available resources, and staying informed about the quality and accessibility of care. The availability of tertiary care centers like DHMC and UVMMC provides access to advanced medical services, albeit with the added challenge of distance. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the available healthcare options, residents of Rutland, Vermont, can make informed decisions and access the care they need.