06239, Danielson, Connecticut Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 06239, Danielson, Connecticut is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Eastern Connecticut: A Scorecard for 06239

Finding the right breast cancer care is a critical journey, and proximity often plays a significant role in accessing timely and effective treatment. This review examines hospitals near the ZIP code 06239 (Plainfield, Connecticut), focusing on key factors for breast cancer patients, including hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. This analysis incorporates data from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other relevant healthcare databases.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in Eastern Connecticut is primarily served by a network of hospitals, with varying levels of specialization and resources. Proximity to larger, regional medical centers can offer access to more advanced treatments, while local hospitals provide essential services and often prioritize patient convenience. This review aims to provide a balanced assessment, considering both the breadth of services and the practical realities of accessing care.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for evaluating hospital quality, based on factors such as patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. Unfortunately, the immediate vicinity of 06239 doesn't boast any hospitals with a 5-star CMS rating. However, several hospitals in the region offer robust breast cancer services and have earned respectable ratings.

**Day Kimball Hospital (Putnam, CT):**

Day Kimball Hospital, located a short drive from Plainfield, is a community hospital that provides a range of services. While not a large academic medical center, Day Kimball offers a dedicated breast health program. CMS data indicates a solid performance in areas such as patient safety and responsiveness of staff. They have a breast center offering screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and potentially some surgical services. Patients should verify the availability of specific treatments and the expertise of the surgical team.

**Backus Hospital (Norwich, CT):**

Backus Hospital in Norwich, CT, is another key player in the region. Backus is a part of Hartford HealthCare, a larger network that offers a broader range of specialized services. Backus has a dedicated cancer center that provides comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. The hospital's CMS star rating provides a baseline understanding of its overall quality, and patients should investigate the specific programs and expertise offered within the cancer center. Backus is likely to offer a more extensive range of treatment options than Day Kimball, potentially including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Yale New Haven Health System (Various Locations):**

While not directly in the 06239 ZIP code, Yale New Haven Health System, including Yale New Haven Hospital (New Haven, CT) and affiliated facilities, provides access to a renowned cancer center. This offers a more comprehensive approach to breast cancer care, including access to cutting-edge research, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists. However, the travel distance to New Haven is significantly longer than to the local hospitals, and patients need to consider the impact on their convenience and support system.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond overall hospital quality, specific specialty centers and services are crucial for breast cancer patients. These include dedicated breast centers, surgical oncology programs, radiation oncology departments, and access to medical oncology.

**Breast Centers:**

Dedicated breast centers often provide a streamlined approach to care, offering comprehensive services under one roof. These centers typically include screening mammography, diagnostic imaging (ultrasound, MRI), breast biopsies, and consultations with breast surgeons. Backus Hospital and Day Kimball Hospital both have breast centers that should be evaluated by prospective patients.

**Surgical Oncology:**

The expertise of the surgical team is paramount. Patients should inquire about the experience and specialization of the breast surgeons at each hospital. Backus Hospital, as part of a larger network, likely has access to a wider range of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and breast reconstruction options.

**Radiation Oncology:**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. Patients should investigate the availability of radiation oncology services at each hospital. Backus Hospital is more likely to have a comprehensive radiation oncology department, potentially including advanced techniques like 3D conformal radiation therapy and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

**Medical Oncology:**

Medical oncologists specialize in chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. Patients should confirm the availability of medical oncology services at each hospital and the experience of the oncologists in treating breast cancer. Backus Hospital, with its larger cancer center, is likely to have a more extensive team of medical oncologists.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience:**

Emergency room wait times can be a factor, especially for patients experiencing complications from treatment. While ER wait times are not directly related to breast cancer care, they can indicate overall hospital efficiency. CMS data and publicly available resources often provide information on ER wait times. Patient experience, measured through surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), is another key indicator of hospital quality. These surveys assess factors such as communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Telehealth and Accessibility:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options for their breast cancer care. Accessibility, including transportation options and the availability of interpreters, is also crucial for patients.

**Specific Considerations for 06239 Residents:**

Residents of 06239 are geographically positioned to access both local hospitals and larger regional medical centers. The best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. Patients seeking a more comprehensive range of services and access to clinical trials may consider the longer travel distance to Yale New Haven Health System. Those prioritizing convenience and a more community-focused environment may prefer the breast centers at Day Kimball or Backus Hospital.

**Detailed Hospital Profiles (Illustrative Examples):**

* **Backus Hospital:** Patients should inquire about the specific breast cancer treatment options offered, including surgical techniques, radiation therapy modalities, and access to clinical trials. Investigate the experience and specialization of the breast surgeons and medical oncologists. Confirm the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups.
* **Day Kimball Hospital:** Patients should confirm the range of services offered by the breast center. Inquire about the experience of the surgical team and the availability of medical oncology services. Assess the convenience of the location and the availability of support services.
* **Yale New Haven Health System:** Patients should investigate the specific programs and expertise of the Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven. Consider the travel distance and the impact on their support system. Explore the availability of clinical trials and the expertise of the multidisciplinary team.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Access to clinical trials can offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital, especially at Backus Hospital and Yale New Haven Health System.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right breast cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near 06239, considering factors such as hospital quality, specialty services, and accessibility. Patients should conduct thorough research, ask detailed questions, and consider their individual needs and preferences when making their decision. Consulting with their primary care physician and seeking second opinions are also highly recommended. The information provided here is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers for personalized guidance.