03235, Franklin, New Hampshire Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 03235, Franklin, New Hampshire is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 03235

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, especially when facing a diagnosis. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 03235 (the area surrounding Concord, New Hampshire), assessing their capabilities, resources, and performance metrics relevant to lung cancer care. The information presented aims to provide a clear and concise overview, enabling informed choices during a difficult time.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near Concord, NH, offers a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity to Boston, Massachusetts, provides access to some of the nation's top hospitals, but travel time and logistical considerations are essential factors. This review considers both local options and those within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on key aspects of lung cancer care.

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

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located approximately an hour and a half west of Concord, is a prominent player in the region. DHMC is a large, academic medical center and the flagship hospital of Dartmouth Health. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a good overall performance. DHMC has a comprehensive cancer center, offering multidisciplinary care for lung cancer patients. They have dedicated thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists, all working collaboratively.

DHMC's lung cancer program benefits from its affiliation with the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, allowing access to clinical trials and cutting-edge research. They offer advanced diagnostic imaging, including PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy, crucial for accurate staging and treatment planning. DHMC is known for its expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques for lung cancer, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

**Telehealth at DHMC:** DHMC has significantly expanded its telehealth capabilities, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. They offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring for cancer patients, which can be beneficial for those living at a distance or with mobility limitations. Specific data on telehealth utilization for lung cancer patients is available through the Dartmouth Health website or patient services.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at DHMC can fluctuate. It's advisable to check current wait times through their website or a third-party platform like Google before heading to the emergency room.

**Specialty Centers:** DHMC has a dedicated Norris Cotton Cancer Center, providing comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer. This center houses specialized clinics and support services, such as genetic counseling, palliative care, and survivorship programs.

**Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH)**

Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester, approximately 30 minutes south of Concord, is another significant healthcare provider. CMC is a member of the GraniteOne Health system. CMC has a 3-star CMS rating. CMC offers a comprehensive lung cancer program.

CMC has a team of experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists. They provide diagnostic services, including bronchoscopy and imaging, and offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. CMC is known for its advanced radiation therapy capabilities.

**Telehealth at CMC:** CMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CMC can vary. Checking current wait times online is recommended.

**Specialty Centers:** CMC has a comprehensive cancer center, providing multidisciplinary care.

**Elliot Hospital (Manchester, NH)**

Elliot Hospital, also in Manchester, is another major hospital in the region. It is part of the SolutionHealth network. Elliot Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Elliot Hospital offers lung cancer treatment, including diagnostic services, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**Telehealth at Elliot Hospital:** Elliot Hospital has telehealth capabilities.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Elliot Hospital can vary. Checking current wait times online is recommended.

**Specialty Centers:** Elliot Hospital has a cancer center.

**Other Considerations**

**Proximity to Boston:** The proximity of Concord to Boston offers access to world-renowned hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. These institutions are consistently ranked among the best in the nation for cancer care. However, patients should consider the travel time, traffic, and potential logistical challenges associated with receiving care in Boston.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA):** MGH is a top-tier hospital with an exceptional lung cancer program. They offer cutting-edge treatments, access to clinical trials, and a highly specialized team of physicians. Travel time from Concord is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

**Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA):** Dana-Farber is a world leader in cancer research and treatment. Their lung cancer program is renowned for its expertise and innovative therapies. Travel time from Concord is similar to MGH.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Look for board certifications and specializations in lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Assess the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as PET/CT scans, and advanced surgical techniques, such as VATS.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Read patient reviews and ratings to gain insights into the quality of care and patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Travel and Logistics:** Consider the distance, travel time, and ease of access to the hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** If you anticipate needing emergency care, check ER wait times.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. The hospitals near ZIP code 03235 offer a range of options, from comprehensive community hospitals to major regional medical centers. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center stands out as a leading institution with a strong reputation and access to advanced treatments and clinical trials. Catholic Medical Center and Elliot Hospital provide additional local options. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare providers, and consideration of the factors outlined in this review will help guide this critical decision. Patients should always discuss their options with their primary care physician and seek second opinions when necessary.