05340, Bondville, Vermont Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 05340, Bondville, Vermont is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05340 (Brattleboro, Vermont)**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents of Brattleboro, Vermont (ZIP code 05340), this means evaluating local and regional hospital options. This review examines the available facilities, focusing on their prostate cancer care capabilities, overall quality metrics, and accessibility.

**Local Options: Cheshire Medical Center**

The closest major medical center to Brattleboro is Cheshire Medical Center in Keene, New Hampshire, approximately a 30-minute drive. Cheshire Medical Center, a member of Dartmouth Health, is a significant regional healthcare provider. While specific prostate cancer program details are not readily available in the same format as larger academic centers, Cheshire Medical Center offers comprehensive cancer care through its Norris Cotton Cancer Center affiliate.

Cheshire Medical Center has a four-star CMS rating. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. ER wait times at Cheshire Medical Center are reported to be around 20 minutes. This is a crucial factor for patients requiring immediate medical attention.

**Dartmouth Health: A Regional Powerhouse**

Dartmouth Health, the parent organization of Cheshire Medical Center, is a major player in the region. The flagship hospital, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire (approximately 1.5-hour drive), offers a comprehensive cancer program. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a prestigious designation signifying its commitment to research, advanced treatments, and patient care.

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center has a four-star CMS rating. The hospital's cancer program is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists in urology, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. They offer a wide range of prostate cancer treatments, including robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy (including brachytherapy), chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy.

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center has a robust telehealth program. Telehealth services are particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The hospital’s telehealth program has seen significant expansion in recent years, reflecting a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

**Other Regional Considerations**

While Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center is a primary referral center, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may offer prostate cancer care. These hospitals may not have the same level of specialization or NCI designation but could still provide adequate treatment options.

**Accessibility and Wait Times**

Access to care is a critical factor. Travel time, appointment availability, and wait times for procedures can significantly impact a patient's experience. Patients should inquire about these factors when choosing a hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

When evaluating hospitals, consider the presence of specialized centers or programs. These centers often offer advanced technologies, clinical trials, and a team of experts focused on specific types of cancer.

**Cancer Centers**

The Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Cheshire Medical Center and the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Cancer Center are the primary cancer centers in the region. These centers offer a wide range of services, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, and supportive care services.

**Robotic Surgery**

Robotic-assisted surgery has become a standard treatment option for prostate cancer. Hospitals that offer robotic surgery typically have surgeons with specialized training in this technique.

**Radiation Therapy**

Radiation therapy is another common treatment for prostate cancer. Hospitals should offer a range of radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

**Clinical Trials**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in cancer care. Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in cancer care. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of patients' health.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is an essential consideration. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling.

**Specific Hospital Details**

* **Cheshire Medical Center:** Offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care through its Norris Cotton Cancer Center affiliation. ER wait times are around 20 minutes.
* **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center:** An NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Offers a wide range of prostate cancer treatments, including robotic surgery and radiation therapy. Has a robust telehealth program.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Brattleboro, Vermont (05340), the choice of where to receive prostate cancer care involves a careful evaluation of several factors. While local options like Cheshire Medical Center provide accessible care, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, with its NCI designation and comprehensive cancer program, offers a higher level of specialization and advanced treatment options. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each hospital when making their decision. Thorough research, consultation with medical professionals, and consideration of factors like travel time, access to specialists, and patient experience will help guide the selection of the best possible care.