05867, Sutton, Vermont Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 05867, Sutton, Vermont is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 05867 (St. Johnsbury, VT)**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents of St. Johnsbury, Vermont (ZIP code 05867) and surrounding areas, the availability of specialized prostate cancer services is a critical factor in determining the best course of action. This review examines the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their prostate cancer treatment capabilities, overall quality metrics, and accessibility.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

The immediate area surrounding St. Johnsbury is primarily served by smaller community hospitals. While these facilities often provide essential healthcare services, they may not possess the comprehensive resources needed for advanced prostate cancer treatment. Therefore, patients in the 05867 area may need to travel to larger regional medical centers to access specialized oncology care.

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

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located approximately an hour's drive from St. Johnsbury, stands out as the most prominent and comprehensive healthcare provider within reasonable proximity. DHMC is a flagship hospital, a major academic medical center, and a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This designation signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research, advanced treatment options, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.

DHMC's Urology Department is a key resource for prostate cancer patients. The hospital offers a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment modalities, including:

* **Advanced Imaging:** DHMC utilizes state-of-the-art imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET/CT scans, to accurately diagnose and stage prostate cancer.
* **Surgical Expertise:** The hospital's urologists are highly skilled in various surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy (removal of the prostate gland). The use of robotic surgery often leads to less invasive procedures, potentially resulting in faster recovery times and reduced post-operative complications.
* **Radiation Oncology:** DHMC's radiation oncology department provides a range of radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy (internal radiation). They offer advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), which help to precisely target the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
* **Medical Oncology:** The medical oncology team provides chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies for advanced or metastatic prostate cancer. They also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest experimental treatments.

**Quality Metrics and Ratings**

DHMC consistently receives high ratings from various healthcare quality assessment organizations. While specific CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings can fluctuate, DHMC typically maintains a strong overall rating, reflecting its commitment to patient safety, quality of care, and positive patient outcomes. Patient satisfaction scores, often measured through surveys, are generally favorable, indicating a positive experience for patients undergoing treatment at DHMC.

**Accessibility and Wait Times**

Accessibility is a crucial factor for patients traveling from St. Johnsbury. DHMC is located in Lebanon, NH, which is a manageable drive. However, appointment availability can be a concern, especially for specialized services. Patients should anticipate potential wait times for initial consultations and treatment scheduling.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** DHMC's ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources like the ER Wait Times app.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** DHMC has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring programs, which can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas like St. Johnsbury, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Other Considerations**

While DHMC is the primary center for specialized prostate cancer care, other hospitals in the region may offer some related services.

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

The University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM Medical Center) is another option, located approximately two hours from St. Johnsbury. UVM Medical Center is a large academic medical center that offers a comprehensive cancer program. They have a dedicated urology department and a radiation oncology department. They have a robust cancer center with many resources.

**Smaller Community Hospitals**

Smaller community hospitals in the region, such as Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (St. Johnsbury, VT), may offer some basic diagnostic services and primary care. However, for advanced prostate cancer treatment, patients will likely need to be referred to a larger medical center like DHMC or UVM Medical Center.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for prostate cancer treatment, patients should consider several factors:

* **Expertise and Experience:** The urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists should have extensive experience in treating prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Technology and Resources:** Access to advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy technologies is essential.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A multidisciplinary team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nurses, and support staff, should collaborate to develop and implement the treatment plan.
* **Patient Support Services:** The hospital should provide comprehensive support services, such as patient education, counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Research patient reviews and ratings to gain insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient experience.

**Conclusion**

For residents of St. Johnsbury, VT (ZIP code 05867), Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, emerges as the leading choice for comprehensive prostate cancer care. Its NCI designation, advanced treatment options, and strong quality metrics make it a trusted resource for patients in the region. While other hospitals may offer some related services, DHMC's specialized expertise and resources are crucial for optimal outcomes. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and urologists to discuss their specific needs and determine the best course of action for their individual circumstances. The availability of telehealth services at DHMC further enhances accessibility for patients in rural areas.