02019, Bellingham, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02019, Bellingham, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near 02019

Finding the right breast cancer care is a critical journey, and proximity to quality facilities can significantly impact treatment and outcomes. This review focuses on hospitals near the 02019 ZIP code (Attleboro, Massachusetts), evaluating key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, accessibility, and emerging telehealth options. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their breast cancer care.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

A cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the overall quality of the hospital. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a readily accessible measure of hospital performance. While no single metric perfectly captures the complexity of care, CMS stars offer a valuable starting point.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):** Located directly within the 02019 ZIP code, Sturdy Memorial Hospital is a community hospital. CMS star ratings are a dynamic measure and can fluctuate. Patients should consult the CMS website for the most current rating. Sturdy Memorial offers a Breast Health Center, which is a key factor in assessing its breast cancer capabilities.

**Nearby Hospitals and their Breast Cancer Programs:**

Beyond the immediate vicinity, several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance from 02019 offer comprehensive breast cancer services. These hospitals often have more extensive resources and specialized expertise.

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** Located approximately 15 miles from Attleboro, Rhode Island Hospital is a major teaching hospital and a Level I trauma center. It is part of the Lifespan Health System. Rhode Island Hospital has a dedicated breast cancer program that offers a multidisciplinary approach to care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They often have a strong research component and may participate in clinical trials. CMS star ratings for Rhode Island Hospital should be consulted for the most current information.

**Women & Infants Hospital (Providence, RI):** Also part of the Lifespan Health System and located in Providence, Women & Infants Hospital specializes in women's health. Its breast health services are a key component of its offerings. Women & Infants typically provides a comprehensive breast cancer program, focusing on early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. They may have specialized services like high-risk breast clinics and genetic counseling. CMS star ratings for Women & Infants Hospital should be consulted for the most current information.

**Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA):** While located further away (approximately 30 miles), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a world-renowned cancer center. It is consistently ranked among the top cancer hospitals in the United States. Dana-Farber offers cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a highly specialized team of experts. Accessing care at Dana-Farber often requires a referral, and travel considerations are significant.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA):** Another flagship hospital in Boston, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is a major teaching hospital with a comprehensive cancer center. MGH offers a wide range of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. They often have a strong research focus and may participate in clinical trials. The distance from 02019 is approximately 30 miles.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially during a health crisis. While not directly related to breast cancer care, longer wait times can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely care. Data on ER wait times is often available through hospital websites, online healthcare resources, and government databases. These times can fluctuate depending on the day, time, and the overall volume of patients.

**Specialty Centers and Specialized Services:**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized centers can provide focused expertise in breast cancer care.

**Breast Centers:** Many hospitals have dedicated breast centers that offer a comprehensive range of services under one roof. These centers typically include:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Biopsy Services:** Core needle biopsy, stereotactic biopsy, and other minimally invasive procedures.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Breast surgeons specializing in breast cancer surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation oncologists who administer radiation therapy.
* **Reconstructive Surgery:** Plastic surgeons specializing in breast reconstruction.
* **Support Services:** Nurse navigators, social workers, and support groups.

**High-Risk Breast Clinics:** These clinics cater to individuals with a higher risk of developing breast cancer, often due to family history, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), or other risk factors. They provide genetic counseling, risk assessment, and enhanced screening protocols.

**Genetic Counseling:** Genetic counseling is a vital service for individuals with a family history of breast cancer or other cancers. Counselors can assess an individual's risk, discuss genetic testing options, and provide guidance on risk-reducing strategies.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer care. Hospitals with strong research programs often offer a wide range of clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare, offering convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

**Telehealth Services:** Many hospitals are expanding their telehealth offerings. This may include:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Remote consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Monitoring of vital signs and symptoms through wearable devices.
* **Support Groups:** Virtual support groups for patients and their families.
* **Patient Education:** Online resources and educational materials.

**Telehealth Stats:** Information on telehealth usage and availability can often be found on hospital websites or through healthcare provider directories. The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specific provider and the type of service.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Hospital Quality:** CMS star ratings, accreditation status, and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Specialized Services:** Availability of a dedicated breast center, high-risk breast clinic, genetic counseling, and clinical trials.
* **Physician Expertise:** Board-certified specialists in surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity to the hospital, ease of parking, and public transportation options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Online reviews can provide insights into patient experiences.
* **Support Services:** Availability of nurse navigators, social workers, support groups, and other supportive care services.
* **Telehealth Options:** Availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating breast cancer care requires careful consideration of multiple factors. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near the 02019 ZIP code, focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, accessibility, and telehealth options. Patients should conduct thorough research, consult with their primary care physicians, and seek referrals to specialists to make informed decisions about their care. Remember to always verify the most current information, including CMS star ratings and service availability, directly with the hospitals. The best choice will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific stage and type of breast cancer.