05489, Underhill, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05489, Underhill, Vermont is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05489

This review examines the landscape of lung cancer care available to residents near ZIP code 05489 (Stowe, Vermont), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The information presented is based on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable sources. It is crucial to remember that healthcare is constantly evolving, and this review reflects information available at the time of writing. Patients should always consult with their physicians for personalized medical advice.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate area surrounding Stowe, Vermont, presents a more limited selection of major hospitals compared to urban centers. Residents often rely on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) in Burlington, VT, is the flagship hospital and a primary care provider for many in the region. Other hospitals, like Copley Hospital in Morrisville, VT, and Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans, VT, offer more local options for initial care and stabilization.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC): A Deep Dive**

UVMMC stands out as the most comprehensive healthcare provider within a practical radius of Stowe. As a major teaching hospital, it offers a wide array of specialties and advanced treatments.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UVMMC currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. While not the highest possible rating, it reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.
* **Lung Cancer Specialization:** UVMMC boasts a dedicated cancer center, the UVM Cancer Center, which provides comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive services like palliative care and survivorship programs.
* **Specialty Centers:** The UVM Cancer Center offers access to specialized programs and clinics, including those focused on thoracic oncology. This signifies a team of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals specifically trained to treat lung cancer and related conditions.
* **Advanced Treatments:** UVMMC is equipped to provide advanced treatments for lung cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy (potentially including advanced techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy), targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge research and experimental treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at UVMMC can fluctuate. Data from the hospital and third-party sources should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Generally, wait times can be longer during peak hours and on weekends.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** UVMMC has expanded its telehealth services in recent years. This includes virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring, and online support groups. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.
* **Accessibility:** UVMMC is located in Burlington, VT, which is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Stowe, depending on traffic and road conditions. This drive time should be considered when evaluating accessibility for appointments and treatments.

**Copley Hospital: Local Care**

Copley Hospital in Morrisville, VT, offers a more local option for residents. While not a comprehensive cancer center, it can provide initial care, diagnostic imaging, and referrals to specialists.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Copley Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a higher level of quality compared to UVMMC's current rating.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** Copley Hospital provides diagnostic services, including imaging like CT scans and potentially biopsies. They can also offer supportive care and pain management.
* **Referral Network:** Copley Hospital has a referral network that allows them to connect patients with specialists at UVMMC or other regional cancer centers for advanced treatment.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Copley Hospital are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals like UVMMC.
* **Accessibility:** Copley Hospital is located in Morrisville, VT, which is approximately a 20-minute drive from Stowe. This makes it a more accessible option for local residents.

**Northwestern Medical Center: Regional Support**

Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans, VT, is another regional hospital that serves as a potential point of entry for lung cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Northwestern Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** Northwestern Medical Center offers diagnostic services, including imaging and potentially biopsies. They can provide supportive care and referrals to specialists at larger centers.
* **Referral Network:** Northwestern Medical Center has a referral network that allows them to connect patients with specialists at UVMMC or other regional cancer centers for advanced treatment.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Northwestern Medical Center can vary.
* **Accessibility:** Northwestern Medical Center is located in St. Albans, VT, which is approximately a 1-hour drive from Stowe.

**Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care involves several factors beyond proximity.

* **Specialist Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team are crucial. Patients should inquire about the specialists' training, certifications, and experience in treating lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials, is important.
* **Support Services:** Access to supportive services, such as social work, nutrition counseling, and psychological support, can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider the hospital's patient satisfaction scores and reviews. These can provide insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in-network with your insurance plan.

**Telehealth's Role**

Telehealth offers a valuable tool for lung cancer patients in rural areas. It can reduce travel burdens, provide access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring. However, telehealth is not a substitute for in-person care, and patients may still need to travel for certain procedures and treatments.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 05489, UVMMC in Burlington, VT, emerges as the primary destination for comprehensive lung cancer care, boasting a dedicated cancer center and advanced treatment options. Copley Hospital and Northwestern Medical Center provide local options for initial care, diagnostics, and referrals. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when selecting a hospital for lung cancer treatment. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists are essential steps in navigating the healthcare system and receiving the best possible care. The information presented here is a starting point, and patients should always conduct thorough research and consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care.