01740, Bolton, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01740, Bolton, Massachusetts is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 01740 Area: A Scorecard of Hospitals

The 01740 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Framingham, Massachusetts, is situated in a region with robust healthcare options, including several prominent hospitals offering breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a fact-based assessment of the leading facilities, focusing on key metrics relevant to patients navigating a breast cancer journey. This isn’t a ranking, but a comprehensive overview to help patients make informed decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

Massachusetts is home to some of the nation's leading hospitals. Proximity to Boston offers access to world-renowned medical centers. However, for residents of 01740, the closest major hospitals are in the MetroWest area and Boston itself.

**MetroWest Medical Center (Framingham Campus):** Located directly within the 01740 ZIP code, MetroWest Medical Center is a significant local healthcare provider. While it is not a flagship hospital in the same vein as some Boston institutions, it offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and some cancer care. As of the latest available data, MetroWest Medical Center has a CMS star rating, a metric that reflects overall quality of care based on various factors like patient outcomes, readmission rates, and patient experience. It's crucial to check the most recent CMS data as ratings can fluctuate.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Needham Campus):** While not directly in the 01740 ZIP code, the Needham campus of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is a nearby option. Beth Israel Deaconess is a major teaching hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School. The Needham campus offers a comprehensive range of services, including oncology. Check the CMS star rating for the Needham campus specifically, as it may differ from the main Boston hospital.

**Umass Memorial Medical Center (Worcester):** A bit further afield, but still a viable option, UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester provides comprehensive cancer care. UMass Memorial is a large academic medical center. It is vital to verify the CMS star rating for UMass Memorial Medical Center.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in situations requiring immediate attention. Publicly available data on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites and through resources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The average ER wait times can fluctuate, so it is always best to check the most recent data available.

**MetroWest Medical Center (Framingham Campus):** As a local hospital, MetroWest Medical Center's ER wait times are a key factor for 01740 residents. Check their website or CMS data for the most up-to-date information.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Needham Campus):** The ER wait times at the Needham campus of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center are important for residents. Check their website or CMS data for the most up-to-date information.

**Umass Memorial Medical Center (Worcester):** While further away, UMass Memorial Medical Center's ER wait times are important to consider. Check their website or CMS data for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Breast cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, requiring access to specialized centers and programs. The availability of these resources is a critical factor in evaluating a hospital's capabilities.

**MetroWest Medical Center (Framingham Campus):** MetroWest Medical Center has a cancer center. Check the center's website to determine the range of services offered.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Needham Campus):** Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, being a larger hospital with ties to Harvard, likely has a comprehensive cancer center. Research the specific programs offered, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services. Inquire about their breast cancer screening and diagnostic programs.

**Umass Memorial Medical Center (Worcester):** UMass Memorial Medical Center's cancer center provides a comprehensive range of services. Investigate the specific programs, including their breast cancer screening and diagnostic programs.

**Surgical Oncology:** The availability of skilled surgical oncologists is paramount. Research the number of surgeons specializing in breast cancer surgery at each hospital, their experience, and their affiliations with professional organizations.

**Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists administer chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. Investigate the number of medical oncologists, their areas of expertise, and their participation in clinical trials.

**Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality. Assess the availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery.

**Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment often requires support services. Inquire about the availability of patient navigators, social workers, psychologists, and support groups.

**Diagnostic Imaging**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial. The availability of advanced imaging technologies is a key factor.

**Mammography:** Digital mammography and 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) are standard. Confirm the availability of these technologies at each hospital.

**Ultrasound:** Ultrasound is often used to evaluate suspicious findings. Ensure the availability of high-resolution ultrasound equipment.

**MRI:** Breast MRI is used in certain cases. Verify the availability of MRI and the expertise of radiologists in interpreting breast MRI scans.

**Biopsy Capabilities:** The ability to perform various biopsy procedures is essential. Inquire about the availability of core needle biopsy, vacuum-assisted biopsy, and stereotactic biopsy.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. The availability of telehealth options can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**MetroWest Medical Center (Framingham Campus):** Check the hospital's website to determine the telehealth services offered.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Needham Campus):** Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, being a larger hospital with ties to Harvard, likely has robust telehealth capabilities. Check their website.

**Umass Memorial Medical Center (Worcester):** UMass Memorial Medical Center likely offers telehealth services. Check their website.

**Telehealth Statistics:** Inquire about the number of telehealth appointments conducted, the types of services offered via telehealth, and the patient satisfaction rates with telehealth services.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

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

**MetroWest Medical Center (Framingham Campus):** Determine if the hospital participates in any breast cancer clinical trials.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Needham Campus):** Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, being a teaching hospital, likely participates in clinical trials. Research the specific trials offered.

**Umass Memorial Medical Center (Worcester):** UMass Memorial Medical Center likely participates in clinical trials. Research the specific trials offered.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial factor. Resources like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey provide insights into patient satisfaction.

**HCAHPS Scores:** Review the HCAHPS scores for each hospital. These scores reflect patient ratings on various aspects of care, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews on websites like Healthgrades and Vitals. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Accreditation and Certifications**

Accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) indicates a commitment to quality care.

**ACS CoC Accreditation:** Verify if the hospitals have ACS CoC accreditation. This accreditation signifies that the hospital meets specific standards for cancer care.

**NAPBC Accreditation:** Verify if the hospitals have NAPBC accreditation. This accreditation signifies that the hospital meets specific standards for breast cancer care.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

Healthcare costs can vary significantly.

**Insurance Acceptance:** Confirm that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Cost Transparency:** Inquire about the hospital's price transparency policies and the availability of cost estimates for breast cancer treatment.

**Financial Assistance:** Inquire about the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may have difficulty paying for care.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating the available options near the 01740 ZIP code. By considering the factors outlined above, patients can make informed choices that align with their individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.