01904, Lynn, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01904, Lynn, Massachusetts is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 01904: A Deep Dive

Finding the right care for breast cancer requires navigating a complex healthcare landscape. This review focuses on hospitals serving the 01904 ZIP code (Salem, Massachusetts) and surrounding areas, offering a fact-rich overview of their breast cancer services, accessibility, and performance metrics. The goal is to provide residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their care.

**Flagship Hospitals and Overall Performance**

Massachusetts boasts several nationally recognized hospitals, some of which are accessible to residents of 01904. These institutions often serve as regional hubs for specialized care, including breast cancer treatment. However, proximity and access are key considerations.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH):** While not directly in Salem, MGH in Boston is a major draw for its comprehensive cancer services. MGH consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation, and its Cancer Center offers a full spectrum of breast cancer care, from screening and diagnosis to surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. MGH's Breast Cancer Program is highly regarded, with a multidisciplinary team approach. CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) data is not directly comparable, but MGH generally receives high ratings in patient safety and quality of care. Access, however, can be a challenge due to its location and the high demand for its services.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC):** Located in Boston, BIDMC also provides advanced breast cancer care. Their comprehensive breast cancer program includes surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. BIDMC is known for its research and clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments. CMS star ratings for BIDMC are available and should be consulted for the most up-to-date information on patient experience and quality metrics.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center (Burlington):** Lahey Hospital is another major player in the region. Their comprehensive cancer center, which is accessible to residents of 01904, offers a full suite of breast cancer services. Lahey is known for its integrated approach to care, bringing together specialists in surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. Lahey's CMS star ratings should be reviewed for a current understanding of its performance.

**Local Hospital Options**

Closer to Salem, several hospitals offer breast cancer services, providing more convenient access for residents.

**North Shore Medical Center (NSMC):** Located in Salem, NSMC is a primary choice for many residents. NSMC offers a Breast Care Center, providing screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and surgical consultations. While NSMC may not offer the same level of specialized research and clinical trials as larger Boston hospitals, it provides essential services and a more accessible option for initial diagnosis and treatment. NSMC's CMS star ratings are available and should be reviewed.

**Beverly Hospital (Beverly):** Beverly Hospital, also part of the Beth Israel Lahey Health system, is another local option. They provide breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment services. Beverly Hospital offers a convenient option for residents seeking local care. CMS star ratings should be consulted for the most current data.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are an important consideration, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to their cancer treatment.

**MGH:** Due to its high volume and complexity of cases, MGH often experiences longer ER wait times. Patients should be prepared for potential delays.

**BIDMC:** ER wait times at BIDMC can vary, but generally, they are often shorter than those at MGH.

**Lahey Hospital:** Lahey Hospital's ER wait times are generally considered to be moderate.

**NSMC:** As a local hospital, NSMC's ER typically has shorter wait times than the Boston hospitals.

**Beverly Hospital:** ER wait times at Beverly Hospital are usually shorter than those at the larger Boston hospitals.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**MGH:** MGH has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments for various specialties, including oncology. This can be a convenient option for follow-up care and consultations.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC also provides telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their care team remotely.

**Lahey Hospital:** Lahey Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**NSMC:** NSMC offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Beverly Hospital:** Beverly Hospital is expanding its telehealth services to provide more virtual care options.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general services, hospitals often have specialized centers and programs dedicated to breast cancer care.

**MGH:** MGH's Breast Cancer Program is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. They also have specialized programs for high-risk patients and those with specific genetic mutations.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC's Breast Cancer Program offers a comprehensive range of services, including specialized programs for specific types of breast cancer and access to clinical trials.

**Lahey Hospital:** Lahey Hospital's Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach, with specialized programs for breast cancer treatment and support services.

**NSMC:** NSMC's Breast Care Center provides comprehensive screening and diagnostic services.

**Beverly Hospital:** Beverly Hospital's Breast Care Center offers a range of services, including screening and diagnostic services.

**Support Services**

Breast cancer treatment often requires a range of support services.

**MGH:** MGH offers extensive support services, including patient navigators, social workers, support groups, and access to resources for financial assistance and emotional support.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC provides a variety of support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and resources for financial assistance.

**Lahey Hospital:** Lahey Hospital offers support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and resources for financial assistance.

**NSMC:** NSMC offers support services, including patient navigators and support groups.

**Beverly Hospital:** Beverly Hospital provides support services, including patient navigators and support groups.

**Insurance and Cost Considerations**

The cost of breast cancer care can vary significantly depending on the hospital, the type of treatment, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should contact their insurance provider to understand their coverage and out-of-pocket costs. Hospitals often have financial assistance programs for eligible patients.

**Research and Clinical Trials**

Access to research and clinical trials can be crucial for some patients.

**MGH:** MGH is a major research institution and offers access to a wide range of clinical trials.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC is also involved in research and offers access to clinical trials.

**Lahey Hospital:** Lahey Hospital participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

**NSMC:** NSMC may offer access to some clinical trials through partnerships with larger hospitals.

**Beverly Hospital:** Beverly Hospital may offer access to some clinical trials through partnerships with larger hospitals.

**Making Your Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of the 01904 should consider the following factors:

* **Proximity and Accessibility:** How easy is it to get to the hospital for appointments and treatment?
* **Specialty Services:** Does the hospital offer the specific services and programs needed?
* **Physician Expertise:** What is the experience and expertise of the medical team?
* **Support Services:** Does the hospital offer the support services needed, such as patient navigators, support groups, and financial assistance?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept the patient's insurance?
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** What are other patients saying about their experiences at the hospital?
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Review the latest CMS star ratings for each hospital to assess quality of care and patient satisfaction.

By carefully considering these factors and researching the hospitals in the area, residents of the 01904 can make an informed decision about their breast cancer care. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists are also crucial steps in this process. Remember to verify all information directly with the hospitals, as services and programs can change.