05062, Reading, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05062, Reading, Vermont is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05062 (Woodstock, Vermont)**

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Woodstock, Vermont (ZIP code 05062), providing a fact-based assessment of their capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. The information presented is current as of October 26, 2023, and is intended to offer a starting point for patients and their families. It is essential to consult with medical professionals for personalized guidance.

**Regional Overview**

The area around Woodstock, Vermont, is primarily served by hospitals in Vermont and New Hampshire. Access to major medical centers may involve travel, making it crucial to consider factors like distance, ease of access, and the availability of specialized services. Rural hospitals often provide essential care, but complex lung cancer cases may require referral to larger facilities with advanced technology and specialized expertise.

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

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major regional referral center, located approximately 30 miles from Woodstock. DHMC is a flagship facility and a significant provider of healthcare in the region. As of the latest CMS data, DHMC holds a 4-star rating. This rating reflects overall quality, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. However, CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

DHMC’s Norris Cotton Cancer Center is a prominent feature, offering comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. The center provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, including PET/CT scans, bronchoscopy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. DHMC is a teaching hospital, which often means access to the latest research and clinical trials.

Emergency room wait times at DHMC can vary. Publicly available data suggests average wait times, but these can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases. It is advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before arriving at the ER. DHMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.

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

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, Vermont, is another major hospital, located approximately 100 miles from Woodstock. UVMMC is a large academic medical center and also serves as a referral hub. The hospital's CMS star rating fluctuates; it is important to check the most recent data.

UVMMC’s cancer center provides comprehensive lung cancer care. They have a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists. They offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. UVMMC is actively involved in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies.

ER wait times at UVMMC can vary, and are often longer than at smaller hospitals. It is recommended to check current wait times online or by phone. UVMMC has expanded its telehealth services in recent years, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Smaller Hospitals and Community Health Centers**

Several smaller hospitals and community health centers are located closer to Woodstock. These facilities may offer basic services and primary care, but their capabilities for lung cancer treatment are typically more limited.

**Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (Lebanon, NH)**

Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (Lebanon, NH), located in the same city as DHMC, is a smaller community hospital. It may provide some initial care and referrals, but complex lung cancer cases are likely referred to DHMC. Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. Emergency room wait times are generally shorter than at larger hospitals, but the scope of services is more limited. Telehealth options are available, but may be less extensive than at DHMC.

**Gifford Medical Center (Randolph, VT)**

Gifford Medical Center in Randolph, Vermont, is a community hospital located approximately 25 miles from Woodstock. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it provides essential services to a rural population. Gifford Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. It offers primary care and some specialty services, but the scope of lung cancer treatment is limited. Patients may be referred to larger hospitals for advanced care. ER wait times are typically shorter than at larger hospitals. Telehealth options are available, but may be less extensive.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Both DHMC and UVMMC have dedicated cancer centers with specialized programs for lung cancer. These centers offer multidisciplinary teams, access to clinical trials, and advanced treatment options. The specific programs and services offered can vary.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock’s Norris Cotton Cancer Center** is known for its comprehensive approach, including advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy. The center is actively involved in research and clinical trials.

**UVMMC's cancer center** also offers a multidisciplinary approach, with access to a range of specialists and treatment options. They are involved in clinical trials and research.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. Both DHMC and UVMMC have expanded their telehealth services.

**DHMC** offers virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**UVMMC** also provides virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**ER Wait Times**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in emergencies.

**DHMC** has variable wait times, which can be longer during peak hours. Checking online or by phone is recommended.

**UVMMC** typically has longer wait times than smaller hospitals.

**Smaller hospitals** generally have shorter wait times.

**CMS Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings are a useful indicator of overall hospital quality.

**DHMC** has a 4-star rating.

**UVMMC** ratings fluctuate; check the latest data.

**Smaller hospitals** may not have CMS star ratings.

**Access and Transportation**

Access to healthcare can be challenging in rural areas. Transportation options, including personal vehicles, public transportation, and patient transport services, should be considered. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers, can also be important.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should understand their insurance coverage, including deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums. Financial assistance programs may be available through hospitals, cancer organizations, and pharmaceutical companies.

**Patient Experience and Support**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of care. Factors to consider include the hospital's reputation, the availability of support services, and the overall patient experience. Reviews from other patients can provide valuable insights. Support groups, counseling services, and patient navigators can help patients and their families navigate the challenges of lung cancer treatment.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. For patients near Woodstock, Vermont (05062), Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) and the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) are the primary options, offering comprehensive care and specialized services. Smaller hospitals and community health centers may provide initial care and referrals. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the complexity of the case. Patients should consult with their physicians, research available options, and consider factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth services. This review provides a starting point for that process, but personalized medical advice is essential.