05826, Craftsbury, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05826, Craftsbury, Vermont is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05826 (Hardwick, VT)

This review assesses the overall health and healthcare accessibility for residents near Hardwick, Vermont (ZIP code 05826). Given the rural nature of the area, the focus is on the closest and most relevant healthcare providers, considering factors like hospital quality, emergency services, specialty care availability, and telehealth options. Due to the limited number of hospitals within a close radius, the analysis will concentrate on the primary facilities serving this region.

**Primary Healthcare Landscape**

The immediate vicinity of Hardwick is characterized by a reliance on smaller, community-based hospitals and clinics. Residents often travel further afield for more specialized care. The review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging the geographic constraints of the area.

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

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM Medical Center) in Burlington, VT, is a significant healthcare provider for residents in the Hardwick area, despite the approximately 60-mile drive. It is a tertiary care center and the largest hospital in Vermont. UVM Medical Center is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine.

**CMS Star Rating:** UVM Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it is essential to understand the context of the rating and the specific areas where the hospital excels or needs improvement.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** The ED at UVM Medical Center is a high-volume department. Wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times and provides updates on its website and through other communication channels.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** UVM Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics, and transplant services. The hospital is also home to a Level I trauma center, providing advanced care for critically injured patients. For residents near Hardwick, this means access to complex medical procedures and expertise that may not be available at smaller, local facilities.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** UVM Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other services. This is particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas like Hardwick, as it reduces the need for long-distance travel for routine appointments and follow-up care. The hospital's telehealth platform supports various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management.

**Copley Hospital (Morrisville, VT): A Community Focus**

Copley Hospital in Morrisville, VT, is a closer option for residents near Hardwick, located approximately 20 miles away. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it is a smaller facility with a focus on providing essential healthcare services to a rural population.

**CMS Star Rating:** Copley Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. This is common for critical access hospitals, as they are evaluated under a different set of criteria.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** Copley Hospital's ED provides 24/7 emergency care. Wait times are generally shorter than at larger hospitals like UVM Medical Center, reflecting the lower patient volume. However, wait times can still vary depending on the time of day and the severity of patient cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Copley Hospital offers a range of services, including primary care, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and rehabilitation services. It also has a comprehensive diagnostic imaging department. While it does not offer the same breadth of specialty services as UVM Medical Center, it provides essential care close to home.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** Copley Hospital has implemented telehealth services, particularly in areas like behavioral health and specialist consultations. This allows patients to access specialized care without having to travel long distances.

**Northeast Vermont Regional Hospital (St. Johnsbury, VT): Serving the Eastern Region**

Northeast Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) in St. Johnsbury, VT, is another important healthcare provider for residents in the Hardwick area, approximately 30 miles away. It is a community hospital serving the northeastern region of Vermont.

**CMS Star Rating:** NVRH has a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a higher level of quality compared to UVM Medical Center.

**Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** NVRH's ED provides 24/7 emergency care. Wait times are generally moderate.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** NVRH offers a range of services, including primary care, general surgery, cardiology, and orthopedics. It has a cancer center and a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

**Telehealth Initiatives:** NVRH has expanded its telehealth services, particularly in behavioral health, and offers virtual consultations.

**Other Healthcare Options**

In addition to the hospitals mentioned above, residents near Hardwick have access to various clinics and physician practices. These include primary care providers, specialists, and urgent care centers. The availability of these services can vary, and residents may need to travel to access specific types of care.

**Access to Care and Transportation Challenges**

A significant challenge for residents near Hardwick is access to care, particularly for those without reliable transportation. The rural nature of the area and the distance to larger hospitals can create barriers to accessing specialized medical services. Public transportation options are limited, and many residents rely on personal vehicles.

**Mental Health Services**

Access to mental health services is a critical consideration. The region has a mix of providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. However, wait times for appointments can be long, and the availability of specialized mental health services may be limited. Telehealth plays a crucial role in expanding access to mental health care in this area.

**Substance Abuse Treatment**

Substance abuse treatment services are available in the region, including detoxification programs, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient counseling. However, access to these services can be challenging, and waiting lists may exist.

**Preventive Care and Wellness**

Preventive care and wellness programs are essential components of overall health. Residents near Hardwick have access to primary care providers who offer routine checkups, screenings, and vaccinations. Community health centers and other organizations provide wellness programs, such as health education classes and support groups.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for residents near Hardwick, VT, is a complex assessment considering the available resources, geographical challenges, and the quality of care provided by local healthcare facilities.

**Strengths:**

* **Access to Emergency Services:** Residents have access to EDs at Copley Hospital, NVRH, and UVM Medical Center, providing immediate care in urgent situations.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The expansion of telehealth services by hospitals like UVM Medical Center, Copley Hospital, and NVRH helps bridge the geographical gap and improves access to care.
* **Community-Based Healthcare:** The presence of community hospitals and clinics like Copley Hospital and NVRH provides essential healthcare services close to home.
* **Specialty Care Access:** While specialized care often requires travel, the proximity to UVM Medical Center provides access to a wide range of specialty services.

**Weaknesses:**

* **Limited Hospital Choices:** The region has a limited number of hospitals, and residents may need to travel significant distances for specialized care.
* **Transportation Challenges:** The rural nature of the area and the lack of public transportation can make it difficult for residents to access healthcare services.
* **Wait Times:** Wait times in EDs and for specialist appointments can be significant, particularly at UVM Medical Center.
* **CMS Ratings Variability:** CMS ratings, while informative, should be considered alongside other factors, and the variability among the available hospitals requires careful consideration.
* **Mental Health and Substance Abuse:** Access to mental health and substance abuse treatment services may be limited, and waiting lists may exist.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Telehealth Infrastructure:** Continued investment in telehealth infrastructure and services is crucial to improve access to care for residents in rural areas.
* **Improve Transportation Options:** Explore options for providing transportation assistance to patients, particularly those without personal vehicles.
* **Expand Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services:** Increase the availability of mental health and substance abuse treatment services, including expanding telehealth options and reducing wait times.
* **Promote Preventive Care:** Encourage residents to participate in preventive care programs and screenings to improve overall health outcomes.
* **Community Partnerships:** Foster partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government to address healthcare needs and improve access to care.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents near Hardwick, VT, reflects a healthcare landscape characterized by both strengths and weaknesses. While access to emergency services and the expansion of telehealth are positive developments, challenges remain regarding transportation, access to specialized care, and the availability of mental health and substance abuse services. By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommendations outlined above, the healthcare system can better serve the needs of the community and improve the overall health and well-being of residents near Hardwick.