02720, Fall River, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02720, Fall River, Massachusetts is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Southeastern Massachusetts: A Scorecard for 02720

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting task. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review analyzes the breast cancer care landscape near ZIP code 02720 (Fall River, Massachusetts), providing a fact-rich overview to help patients make informed decisions. We’ll examine flagship hospitals, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Considerations**

The 02720 area is served by a network of hospitals, each offering varying levels of breast cancer services. Proximity is a primary factor, but patients should also consider factors like the hospital's reputation, the expertise of its physicians, the availability of advanced technologies, and the support services offered. This review will highlight these crucial aspects.

**Saint Anne's Hospital (Fall River): A Community Anchor**

Saint Anne's Hospital, located directly within the 02720 ZIP code, is a vital community resource. While not a flagship academic medical center, Saint Anne's offers a comprehensive breast health program. The hospital is part of Steward Health Care. Saint Anne's Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, indicating an average performance in overall quality and patient experience.

Saint Anne's Breast Center provides diagnostic imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI. They offer breast biopsy procedures and collaborate with medical oncologists and surgeons to develop individualized treatment plans. The hospital’s ER wait times can fluctuate, and patients should check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms like Google before arriving. Telehealth services are available, offering consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer care are not publicly available, but patients should inquire directly about options.

**Charlton Memorial Hospital (Fall River): A Steward Health Care Partner**

Charlton Memorial Hospital, also part of Steward Health Care, provides breast cancer care services. It is located near the 02720 area. Like Saint Anne's, Charlton Memorial is a community hospital that provides a range of services. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, reflecting its performance in various quality measures.

Charlton Memorial offers diagnostic imaging, including mammography and ultrasound. They provide surgical and medical oncology services, with a focus on multidisciplinary care. Patients should inquire about the specific technologies available, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection. ER wait times are variable, and patients should check current wait times before visiting. Telehealth options are available for certain appointments.

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI): A Regional Powerhouse**

While located outside the immediate 02720 ZIP code, Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI, is a significant regional healthcare provider and is easily accessible. Rhode Island Hospital is a Level I trauma center and a teaching hospital affiliated with Brown University. The hospital is part of Lifespan. Rhode Island Hospital consistently receives a 4-star CMS rating, demonstrating a higher level of quality compared to Saint Anne's and Charlton Memorial.

Rhode Island Hospital's comprehensive breast cancer program includes a dedicated breast health center. They offer advanced imaging technologies, including digital mammography, breast MRI, and PET/CT scans. The hospital's breast cancer specialists provide surgical, medical, and radiation oncology services. Rhode Island Hospital's ER wait times are generally longer than those of community hospitals. Patients should check real-time wait times online. Rhode Island Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. They have a dedicated telehealth program, but specific statistics for breast cancer care are not readily available.

**Women & Infants Hospital (Providence, RI): A Focus on Women's Health**

Women & Infants Hospital, also in Providence, RI, is another Lifespan facility and a major player in women's health, including breast cancer care. Women & Infants Hospital consistently receives a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting its commitment to quality.

Women & Infants Hospital has a specialized breast health center with a focus on early detection and comprehensive treatment. They offer state-of-the-art imaging services, including 3D mammography. The hospital's multidisciplinary team includes breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. ER wait times can vary, so checking real-time data is recommended. Women & Infants Hospital offers telehealth services for certain appointments, including consultations and follow-up care. Specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer care are not publicly available.

**Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center at Southcoast Health (Fairhaven, MA): A Regional Collaboration**

This collaborative center, located near the 02720 area, brings the expertise of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham and Women's Hospital to the Southcoast Health system. This partnership provides access to cutting-edge cancer care.

This center offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. Patients benefit from the combined expertise of the collaborating institutions. ER wait times are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals. Telehealth options are available, and patients should inquire about specific services.

**Comparing Key Metrics: A Quick Glance**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Rhode Island Hospital (4 stars), Women & Infants Hospital (4 stars), Saint Anne's Hospital (3 stars), Charlton Memorial Hospital (3 stars).
* **ER Wait Times:** Variable; check online for real-time updates.
* **Telehealth:** Available at most hospitals; inquire directly about breast cancer-specific options.
* **Specialty Centers:** Rhode Island Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center at Southcoast Health.

**Factors Beyond the Numbers: Choosing the Right Fit**

While these metrics offer a starting point, other factors are equally important.

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Consider their specific training and the number of breast cancer cases they handle annually.
* **Technology:** Inquire about the availability of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and genomic testing.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, support groups, and rehabilitation programs.
* **Patient Experience:** Read online reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction with the hospital and its staff.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.

**Telehealth: A Growing Option**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services from the comfort of their homes. While specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer care are not always readily available, patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments and the types of services offered remotely.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a fact-based overview of the hospitals near the 02720 ZIP code, including their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. Patients should use this information as a starting point, conducting further research and consulting with their primary care physicians to determine the best fit for their individual needs and preferences. Remember to consider the expertise of the physicians, the availability of advanced technologies, the support services offered, and your personal comfort level with the healthcare providers. By taking a proactive approach, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care.