05141, Cambridgeport, Vermont Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 05141, Cambridgeport, Vermont is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Southern Vermont: A Scorecard Near ZIP Code 05141

Finding the right breast cancer care can be daunting. This review provides a fact-based overview of hospitals near ZIP code 05141 (Ludlow, Vermont), focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. While no single hospital perfectly fits every patient's needs, this information aims to empower informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The area surrounding Ludlow, Vermont, is primarily served by smaller community hospitals and regional medical centers. Access to specialized cancer care, including advanced breast cancer treatment, often necessitates travel to larger facilities. This review will assess the strengths and limitations of available options, considering both local resources and those within a reasonable driving distance.

**Dartmouth Health (Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center) - Lebanon, NH (Approx. 1 Hour Drive):**

Dartmouth Health, with its flagship Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major player in the region. DHMC is a comprehensive academic medical center, offering a broad range of services, including a dedicated Norris Cotton Cancer Center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** DHMC 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 considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty Center:** The Norris Cotton Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This designation signifies a high level of research, treatment, and patient care. The center provides multidisciplinary breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at DHMC can fluctuate. Data from recent months indicates average wait times that are often longer than those at smaller community hospitals. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Dartmouth Health has invested significantly in telehealth. The Norris Cotton Cancer Center offers telehealth consultations for various aspects of breast cancer care, including follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.
* **Surgical Oncology:** DHMC boasts a robust surgical oncology program, offering a range of surgical options for breast cancer, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. The hospital utilizes advanced surgical techniques and collaborates with a team of experienced surgeons.
* **Medical Oncology:** The medical oncology department provides chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies for breast cancer. Patients have access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatment options.
* **Radiation Oncology:** DHMC offers advanced radiation therapy techniques, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy. The radiation oncology team works closely with medical and surgical oncologists to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) - Bennington, VT (Approx. 1 Hour Drive):**

Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) in Bennington, Vermont, provides a more local option. SVMC is a community hospital that offers a range of services, including cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** SVMC holds a 4-star rating from CMS. This indicates a good overall performance.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty Center:** SVMC has a comprehensive cancer program that includes breast cancer care. They offer a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care among surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at SVMC are generally shorter than those at larger academic medical centers like DHMC.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** SVMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, including some oncology services. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Surgical Oncology:** SVMC offers breast cancer surgery, including lumpectomy and mastectomy.
* **Medical Oncology:** SVMC provides chemotherapy and other medical oncology treatments.
* **Radiation Oncology:** SVMC provides radiation therapy.

**Rutland Regional Medical Center - Rutland, VT (Approx. 45-Minute Drive):**

Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) is another regional hospital option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** RRMC has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty Center:** RRMC offers a cancer program with breast cancer services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at RRMC can vary, but are generally shorter than those at DHMC.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** RRMC has telehealth capabilities, including oncology services.
* **Surgical Oncology:** RRMC provides breast cancer surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** RRMC offers chemotherapy and other medical oncology treatments.
* **Radiation Oncology:** RRMC provides radiation therapy.

**Smaller Community Hospitals and Clinics:**

Smaller community hospitals and clinics in the immediate vicinity of Ludlow, Vermont, may offer basic diagnostic services, such as mammograms and biopsies. However, for comprehensive breast cancer treatment, patients will likely need to be referred to one of the larger regional hospitals discussed above. These local facilities often collaborate with the larger centers, facilitating seamless referrals and follow-up care.

**Considerations for Patients:**

* **Proximity:** The distance to a hospital can significantly impact access to care, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as advanced surgical techniques, clinical trials, and supportive care programs, can vary between hospitals.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the physicians involved in your care. Consider the number of breast cancer cases each physician handles annually.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's culture and patient satisfaction.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and financial assistance programs.
* **Telehealth Accessibility:** Determine if telehealth options align with your needs and preferences.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near ZIP code 05141, access to breast cancer care involves a mix of local resources and regional medical centers. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, with its NCI-designated cancer center, provides comprehensive care but requires a longer drive. Southwestern Vermont Medical Center and Rutland Regional Medical Center offer more local options with shorter ER wait times. Patients should carefully weigh these factors, along with their individual needs and preferences, when selecting a hospital for breast cancer care. The information provided here, while comprehensive, is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified medical professional. Always consult with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation.