05875, West Glover, Vermont Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 05875, West Glover, Vermont is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05875 (St. Johnsbury, VT)

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when facing a medical need, can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" for hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 05875 (St. Johnsbury, Vermont), offering a snapshot of their performance based on publicly available data. This analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. It's crucial to remember that this review is a starting point, and individual healthcare needs vary. Consulting with your primary care physician is always recommended for personalized medical advice.

**The Landscape: Northeastern Vermont Healthcare**

The region surrounding St. Johnsbury, Vermont, is primarily served by a network of community hospitals and clinics. Access to large, tertiary care centers is more limited, necessitating travel for certain specialized treatments. The focus here is on evaluating the primary healthcare providers within a reasonable radius of the 05875 ZIP code.

**Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH): A Closer Look**

Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH), located in St. Johnsbury, is the closest and primary hospital for residents of the 05875 area. As a community hospital, NVRH provides a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient medical care, surgical services, and a variety of specialty clinics.

NVRH 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, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's important to delve deeper into specific areas.

Emergency room wait times at NVRH are a key consideration. Publicly available data often fluctuates, but typically, patients can expect to be seen by a provider within a reasonable timeframe, often under an hour. However, this can vary depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. It's recommended to check real-time ER wait times, often available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

NVRH offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, general surgery, and obstetrics and gynecology. The hospital has invested in advanced imaging technology, including CT scans and MRIs. They also have a robust physical therapy and rehabilitation program.

Telehealth capabilities at NVRH are expanding. The hospital offers telehealth consultations for certain specialties, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area. The hospital's telehealth program is constantly evolving, so it is important to check their website for current offerings.

**Other Hospitals to Consider: Expanding the Scope**

While NVRH is the primary hospital, residents of the 05875 area may also seek care at other facilities, depending on their needs and preferences.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH): A Tertiary Care Option**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major tertiary care center, approximately an hour's drive from St. Johnsbury. DHMC is a flagship hospital, offering a comprehensive range of specialized services and advanced medical technologies.

DHMC consistently receives high ratings from CMS, typically holding a 4 or 5-star rating. This reflects its strong performance in quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. DHMC is a regional referral center, attracting patients with complex medical needs from across the state and beyond.

Emergency room wait times at DHMC can vary, but they generally experience higher patient volumes than community hospitals. Patients can expect to spend more time in the ER, especially during peak hours. DHMC provides real-time wait time information on its website.

DHMC excels in specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, neurosurgery, and transplant services. The hospital is home to a renowned cancer center, a comprehensive heart and vascular center, and a leading trauma center. They have extensive research programs and access to cutting-edge treatments.

Telehealth is a significant focus at DHMC. The hospital offers a wide array of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and chronic disease management programs. They have invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure to expand access to care for patients across the region.

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

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC), located in Burlington, Vermont, is another major tertiary care center within reasonable driving distance of St. Johnsbury, although it is further away than DHMC. UVMMC is the state's only academic medical center and provides a comprehensive range of medical services.

UVMMC's CMS star rating fluctuates, but it generally receives a 3 or 4-star rating. This reflects its performance across a broad spectrum of quality measures. As an academic medical center, UVMMC is involved in research and training, contributing to advancements in medical care.

Emergency room wait times at UVMMC can be variable, often influenced by patient volume and the complexity of cases. Patients can access real-time wait time information through the hospital's website.

UVMMC offers a wide array of specialty services, including advanced cardiac care, cancer treatment, and neurological services. The hospital has a Level I trauma center and a dedicated children's hospital.

Telehealth is a growing area at UVMMC. The hospital provides telehealth consultations, remote monitoring programs, and virtual support groups. They are actively expanding their telehealth capabilities to improve access to care for patients throughout Vermont.

**Smaller Community Hospitals: Considerations**

Other smaller community hospitals, such as those in Littleton, NH (Littleton Regional Healthcare) and in other towns in the region, may offer some services and could be considered for specific needs. These hospitals often provide basic emergency care, primary care, and some outpatient services. However, they typically lack the specialized resources and advanced technologies found at tertiary care centers.

**Key Factors in the Overall Health Score Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment based on the following key factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** A primary indicator of overall quality, reflecting performance across various metrics.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** A crucial factor for timely access to care, especially in urgent situations.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized medical expertise and advanced treatments.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The extent of telehealth offerings, enabling access to care remotely.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction and feedback, often reflected in surveys and reviews.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity, ease of access, and transportation options.

**Making Informed Decisions: A Patient-Centered Approach**

Choosing the right hospital requires a patient-centered approach. Consider the following:

* **Your Specific Needs:** The type of care you require (emergency, primary, specialized).
* **Your Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is within your insurance network.
* **Physician Recommendations:** Consult with your primary care physician for guidance.
* **Hospital Reviews and Ratings:** Explore patient reviews and ratings to gauge patient experiences.
* **Travel Considerations:** Factor in travel time and distance, especially for specialized care.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in the 05875 Area**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 05875 offers a mix of community hospitals and access to larger tertiary care centers. NVRH provides essential services close to home, while DHMC and UVMMC offer comprehensive specialized care. Evaluating each hospital's strengths and weaknesses, considering your individual needs, and consulting with your physician are crucial steps in making informed healthcare decisions. The "Overall Health Score" framework provides a starting point for assessing the available options and navigating the healthcare system effectively. Remember to stay informed, ask questions, and advocate for your own health.