05737, Chittenden, Vermont Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 05737, Chittenden, Vermont is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Close to Home: A Review for ZIP Code 05737

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 05737 (Rutland, Vermont), providing a factual overview of their lung cancer care capabilities, including information on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. This information is designed to help patients and their families make informed choices.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations**

Residents of Rutland, Vermont (05737) are primarily served by Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC). While other hospitals exist further afield, RRMC is the closest and often the first point of contact for healthcare needs. The availability of specialized lung cancer care at RRMC, and the ease of access, are therefore paramount.

**Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC): The Local Hub**

Rutland Regional Medical Center is the primary healthcare provider for the Rutland area. As of the most recent available data, RRMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing factors like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates an average performance, it is crucial to delve deeper into specific areas of care, especially concerning lung cancer.

RRMC's cancer services are delivered through the Foley Cancer Center. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach, crucial for comprehensive lung cancer treatment. This typically includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology, with supporting services like pulmonology and diagnostic imaging.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services at RRMC**

RRMC offers diagnostic capabilities, including advanced imaging like CT scans and PET scans, essential for lung cancer detection and staging. The availability of these technologies locally eliminates the need for travel to larger facilities for initial assessments.

The Foley Cancer Center provides chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments, both standard modalities for lung cancer management. Radiation therapy is also available, a critical component of treatment for many lung cancer patients.

Surgical oncology services at RRMC include thoracic surgery, allowing for surgical resection of lung tumors when appropriate. The availability of surgical expertise locally is a significant advantage for patients requiring this type of intervention.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience at RRMC**

Emergency room wait times are an important consideration, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer or its treatment. Publicly available data on ER wait times fluctuates. Patients and their families should consult the hospital's website or contact the ER directly for the most up-to-date information. Patient reviews and experiences, available through various online platforms, can offer insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience at RRMC.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring at RRMC**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for patients managing chronic conditions like lung cancer. RRMC may offer telehealth consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing patient concerns without requiring travel. Information on specific telehealth offerings can be found on the RRMC website or by contacting the cancer center directly.

**Beyond Rutland: Exploring Regional Options**

While RRMC is the primary provider, patients may consider other options depending on their specific needs and preferences. This section explores some regional hospitals and their potential relevance.

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

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, is a major regional medical center, approximately a two-hour drive from Rutland. DHMC is a high-performing hospital, consistently receiving high ratings from CMS and other organizations. DHMC has a 5-star CMS rating, indicating a high level of overall quality.

DHMC's Norris Cotton Cancer Center is a nationally recognized cancer center, offering comprehensive lung cancer care. This center provides advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including clinical trials, which may not be available at smaller hospitals.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services at DHMC**

The Norris Cotton Cancer Center offers a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They have a dedicated thoracic oncology program with experienced surgeons and medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer.

DHMC is a leader in clinical research, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies through clinical trials. This is a significant advantage for patients who may not respond to standard treatments.

DHMC has advanced radiation therapy technologies, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), a precise form of radiation delivery that can target tumors with high accuracy.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience at DHMC**

DHMC's ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Publicly available data on wait times is typically available on the hospital's website. Patient reviews often highlight the quality of care and the expertise of the medical staff.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring at DHMC**

DHMC offers extensive telehealth services, including consultations with oncologists, support groups, and remote monitoring programs. These programs can help patients manage their symptoms and stay connected with their care team.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT): Another Regional Option**

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM Medical Center) in Burlington, Vermont, is another potential option, approximately a two-hour drive from Rutland. UVM Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services at UVM Medical Center**

UVM Medical Center offers a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer services. They provide diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

The hospital participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative treatments.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience at UVM Medical Center**

ER wait times at UVM Medical Center can vary. Publicly available data and patient reviews can provide insights into the patient experience.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring at UVM Medical Center**

UVM Medical Center offers telehealth services to its patients.

**Important Considerations for Patients**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment, patients should consider several factors:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of travel are important, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Look for hospitals with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists specializing in lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, which may offer access to innovative therapies.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and consider the overall patient experience at the hospital.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Determine the availability of telehealth services for convenient follow-up appointments and remote monitoring.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion**

For residents of ZIP code 05737, Rutland Regional Medical Center is the primary local provider for lung cancer care. While DHMC and UVM Medical Center offer more specialized services and potentially access to clinical trials, the convenience and accessibility of RRMC are significant advantages. Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their decision. Consulting with their primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists is a crucial step in this process. Thorough research, including reviewing CMS ratings, ER wait times, and available telehealth options, is essential to making an informed decision about lung cancer treatment.