05408, Burlington, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05408, Burlington, Vermont is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Champlain Valley: A Review for ZIP Code 05408

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 05408 (Burlington, Vermont) and provides a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities, focusing on metrics relevant to lung cancer care. We'll examine CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, all vital factors in making an informed choice.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC): The Flagship**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington is the dominant healthcare provider in the area and the primary hospital for residents of 05408. It's a large, tertiary care center with a comprehensive approach to cancer care. UVMMC is a designated Level I Trauma Center, which can be crucial for patients experiencing complications related to lung cancer treatment.

UVMMC currently holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects overall hospital quality, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest rating, it's important to consider this in conjunction with other factors.

UVMMC's **ER wait times fluctuate**, but data suggests they are often longer than the national average. According to recent publicly available data, the median ER wait time can be around 2-3 hours. This is a crucial consideration for patients experiencing breathing difficulties or other urgent symptoms related to lung cancer.

**The UVM Cancer Center**, located within UVMMC, is a significant asset. It offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. This integrated approach is vital for lung cancer patients, who often require a combination of treatments. The Cancer Center is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a program of the American College of Surgeons, demonstrating a commitment to quality cancer care.

UVMMC has a robust surgical oncology program, offering advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive approaches for lung cancer resection. They also have a strong radiation oncology department, equipped with advanced technologies like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which can be used to treat early-stage lung cancer.

**Telehealth at UVMMC** is increasingly utilized. The hospital offers telehealth appointments for oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those who have difficulty traveling. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of oncology telehealth appointments per month or patient satisfaction scores, are not always readily available, but the service is actively promoted.

**Other Hospitals to Consider (Outside of Burlington)**

While UVMMC is the primary hospital for 05408 residents, it's important to consider options outside of Burlington, particularly for specialized services or if wait times are a concern. The options are limited, but worth considering.

**Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH): A Regional Powerhouse**

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (D-H) in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a regional referral center, approximately a 2-hour drive from Burlington. D-H is a highly regarded hospital with a strong reputation for cancer care.

D-H holds a **4-star rating from CMS**, reflecting a higher overall quality compared to UVMMC. This rating is a significant factor to consider.

D-H's **ER wait times are generally comparable to or slightly better than UVMMC**. However, the drive time to Lebanon needs to be factored into any emergency situation.

**The Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock** is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This designation signifies that the center meets rigorous standards for cancer research, treatment, and prevention. This is a significant advantage, as it often means access to cutting-edge clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

The Norris Cotton Cancer Center has a dedicated thoracic oncology program, specializing in the treatment of lung cancer. They offer a full range of services, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. They are likely to have access to a wider range of clinical trials than UVMMC.

**Telehealth at Dartmouth-Hitchcock** is also well-developed. They offer telehealth appointments for oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care services. This is particularly valuable for patients living in remote areas.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Access to Clinical Trials**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, consider the availability of specialized centers and access to clinical trials.

**Specialty Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated thoracic oncology programs, which typically have a team of specialists focused specifically on lung cancer. This can include pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other support staff.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials is crucial for some lung cancer patients. Clinical trials offer the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments that may not be available elsewhere. The NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock has a significant advantage in this area. UVMMC also participates in clinical trials, but the scope may be smaller.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially for lung cancer patients who may experience respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms. Long wait times can be detrimental to patient outcomes. Research the ER wait times for each hospital, and consider the potential impact on your care.

**Patient Experience: A Subjective but Important Element**

Patient experience is a subjective factor, but it's important to consider. Look for hospitals with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction. Read online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the hospital's culture and the quality of care provided.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of care is a significant factor for many patients. Research the hospital's billing practices and insurance coverage. Understand your out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A general indicator of hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Critical for patients experiencing urgent symptoms.
* **Specialty Centers:** Look for dedicated thoracic oncology programs.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Consider the potential benefits of clinical trials.
* **Telehealth Offerings:** Improve access to care and convenience.
* **Patient Experience:** Read reviews and talk to other patients.
* **Financial Considerations:** Understand your out-of-pocket costs.
* **Proximity:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of travel.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options**

For residents of ZIP code 05408, UVMMC is the primary local option, offering comprehensive cancer care and a range of services. However, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, with its higher CMS rating and NCI-designated cancer center, presents a compelling alternative, especially for patients seeking access to clinical trials and specialized expertise. Consider the factors outlined in this review, weigh the pros and cons of each hospital, and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to discuss your specific case and determine the best course of action.