06107, West Hartford, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06107, West Hartford, Connecticut is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Hartford, CT (06107)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, and choosing the right hospital for treatment is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near the 06107 ZIP code (Hartford, CT), providing a fact-rich overview to help patients make informed decisions. We will examine key factors including hospital ratings, specialized centers, wait times, and telehealth options, offering a snapshot of the available resources.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

Hartford, CT, is home to several prominent hospitals, with the flagship institutions being the primary focus. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a general indication of a hospital's quality. It’s crucial to understand that these ratings are a snapshot and should be considered alongside other factors.

**Hartford Hospital:** Located at 80 Seymour Street, Hartford Hospital is a major player in the region. It is a large, tertiary care center. Hartford Hospital generally receives a good CMS star rating, reflecting its overall performance. The hospital boasts a comprehensive breast cancer program, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services.

**Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center:** Situated at 114 Woodland Street, Saint Francis is another significant hospital in the area. Saint Francis also typically receives a respectable CMS star rating. Their breast cancer program offers a range of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care.

**Assessing ER Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor, especially in the early stages of diagnosis and treatment. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's essential to understand the general trends.

**Hartford Hospital's ER:** Hartford Hospital's emergency department is known for high patient volume. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the patient's condition. Patients can expect to encounter wait times that may be longer than at smaller facilities.

**Saint Francis Hospital's ER:** Saint Francis Hospital's ER also experiences significant patient volume. Wait times can vary, and it's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise:**

Beyond general hospital ratings, the presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a key indicator of quality. These centers often bring together multidisciplinary teams of experts.

**Hartford Hospital's Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center:** Hartford Hospital's Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center is a well-regarded facility. It provides comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The center's breast cancer program is robust, with dedicated breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

**Saint Francis Hospital's Smilow Cancer Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital is affiliated with the Smilow Cancer Hospital, which offers a comprehensive approach to cancer care. The Smilow Cancer Hospital provides a range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The breast cancer program is well-regarded, with a dedicated team of specialists.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: Mammography and Beyond:**

Early detection is critical in breast cancer treatment. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools is a vital consideration.

**Mammography at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital offers advanced mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small cancers. They also provide breast ultrasound and MRI.

**Mammography at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital also offers comprehensive mammography services, including 3D mammography. They provide breast ultrasound and MRI.

**Surgical Options and Expertise:**

Surgical options for breast cancer vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. Access to skilled surgeons and a range of surgical techniques is essential.

**Surgical Oncology at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital has a team of experienced breast surgeons who perform various procedures, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel lymph node biopsy. They also offer reconstructive surgery options.

**Surgical Oncology at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital has a team of breast surgeons who perform a variety of procedures, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel lymph node biopsy. They also provide reconstructive surgery options.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy:**

Medical oncologists play a vital role in developing and administering chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.

**Medical Oncology at Hartford Hospital:** The Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center at Hartford Hospital has a team of medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer. They provide chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Medical Oncology at Saint Francis Hospital:** The Smilow Cancer Hospital at Saint Francis Hospital has a team of medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer. They provide chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Radiation Oncology:**

Radiation therapy is often a crucial part of breast cancer treatment. Access to advanced radiation techniques is important.

**Radiation Oncology at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital's Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center offers advanced radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

**Radiation Oncology at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital offers advanced radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, offering patients convenient access to care.

**Telehealth at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations with oncologists and support services.

**Telehealth at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital also provides telehealth options, including virtual consultations with oncologists and support services.

**Support Services and Survivorship Programs:**

Comprehensive breast cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. Access to support services is vital for patients' well-being.

**Support Services at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital offers a range of support services, including support groups, counseling, and patient navigation. They also have survivorship programs to help patients transition after treatment.

**Support Services at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital provides support services, including support groups, counseling, and patient navigation. They also offer survivorship programs.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Clinical Trials at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital participates in clinical trials for breast cancer, offering patients access to innovative therapies.

**Clinical Trials at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital also participates in clinical trials for breast cancer, providing patients with access to research-based treatments.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:**

Navigating the financial aspects of breast cancer treatment can be challenging. Patients should confirm their insurance coverage and explore financial assistance options.

**Insurance Acceptance at Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital accepts a wide range of insurance plans. Patients should verify coverage with their insurance provider.

**Insurance Acceptance at Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital also accepts a broad range of insurance plans. Patients should confirm coverage with their insurance provider.

**Proximity and Accessibility:**

The proximity of the hospital to the patient's home and ease of access are important factors.

**Accessibility of Hartford Hospital:** Hartford Hospital is located in downtown Hartford, which may be easily accessible for some residents of the 06107 ZIP code but could present challenges for those in surrounding areas.

**Accessibility of Saint Francis Hospital:** Saint Francis Hospital is located in the North End of Hartford. Accessibility may vary depending on the patient's location.

**Making the Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider all the factors discussed in this review, including hospital ratings, specialized centers, wait times, and telehealth options. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking second opinions are highly recommended.