20628, Dameron, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20628, Dameron, Maryland is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Shadow of the Chesapeake: A Review for ZIP Code 20628

Finding the best breast cancer care requires more than just proximity. For residents of ZIP code 20628, nestled in the heart of Southern Maryland, access to quality healthcare is a critical consideration. This review delves into the hospitals serving this area, focusing on their breast cancer services, overall quality indicators, and accessibility, providing a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Considerations**

The primary hospitals serving ZIP code 20628 include those within the University of Maryland system, as well as other regional providers. Assessing these facilities involves examining factors such as their accreditation, CMS star ratings (a government-provided measure of overall hospital quality), the availability of specialized breast cancer centers, the expertise of their medical teams, and the ease of access to care, including wait times in the emergency room.

**University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center (La Plata, MD)**

Located closest to the 20628 ZIP code, the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center (UM Charles Regional) is a crucial player in the local healthcare landscape. While not a flagship facility like some of its system counterparts, UM Charles Regional offers essential services, including cancer care. The hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission, a recognized standard for healthcare quality.

UM Charles Regional’s CMS star rating fluctuates, making it essential to check the most current data on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) before making healthcare decisions. This rating reflects overall hospital performance, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, and offers diagnostic imaging services, including mammography, and potentially breast ultrasound and MRI. The availability of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists, is critical for comprehensive breast cancer care. Telehealth options may be available for follow-up appointments and consultations, which can improve access for patients in rural areas. ER wait times are a significant consideration, and can be found on the hospital’s website, or through third-party sites such as Google.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD)**

Approximately an hour’s drive from ZIP code 20628, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore represents a flagship facility within the University of Maryland system. UMMC consistently receives high marks for its quality of care and is a major referral center for complex medical cases. UMMC is a teaching hospital, which often means access to cutting-edge treatments and research.

UMMC boasts a dedicated breast cancer center, often equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. The hospital’s CMS star rating is generally high, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and positive outcomes. UMMC is accredited by The Joint Commission. This institution likely offers a comprehensive range of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging (such as 3D mammography), surgical options (including breast reconstruction), radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The hospital’s expertise in clinical trials could be an important factor for patients seeking access to innovative therapies. Telehealth services are likely available, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists. Patients should check the UMMC website for current ER wait times.

**MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center (Clinton, MD)**

Slightly closer than UMMC, MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, MD, provides another option for residents of 20628. MedStar Southern Maryland is accredited by The Joint Commission.

This hospital offers cancer care services, including diagnostic imaging and potentially surgical options. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center and a multidisciplinary team is important. Patients should investigate the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography. Reviewing the hospital’s CMS star rating (available on Medicare.gov) is essential to assess overall quality. ER wait times should be considered when evaluating access to care. Telehealth services may be available for some appointments.

**Inova Alexandria Hospital (Alexandria, VA)**

While a bit further afield, Inova Alexandria Hospital in Alexandria, Virginia, is another option for residents of 20628. Inova Alexandria Hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission.

Inova Alexandria Hospital offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. Patients should investigate the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography. Reviewing the hospital’s CMS star rating (available on Medicare.gov) is essential to assess overall quality. ER wait times should be considered when evaluating access to care. Telehealth services may be available for some appointments.

**Assessing Key Factors: Beyond Hospital Walls**

Beyond the specific hospitals, several factors should influence the decision-making process for breast cancer care:

* **Specialized Breast Centers:** Dedicated breast centers often provide a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to care, with specialized teams of physicians, nurses, and support staff. Look for centers accredited by organizations like the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** The best breast cancer care involves a team approach, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff. Ensure the hospital has a well-coordinated team.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Options:** The availability of various surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and breast reconstruction, is essential.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is important.
* **Medical Oncology:** A strong medical oncology program provides access to chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and research.
* **Patient Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Accessibility and Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Access to care is a significant concern for residents of ZIP code 20628. Travel time to hospitals, particularly those in Baltimore or Alexandria, can be a barrier. ER wait times can also impact access to care. The hospital websites and third-party sites such as Google, often provide real-time or recent data on ER wait times.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for improving access to care. Many hospitals offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups via telehealth platforms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling. Check the hospital websites for specific telehealth offerings.

**Making the Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of ZIP code 20628 should carefully consider the factors outlined in this review, including the hospital’s accreditation, CMS star rating, the availability of specialized breast cancer centers, the expertise of the medical team, the availability of advanced technologies, and the ease of access to care. By gathering information and asking questions, patients can make informed choices that align with their individual needs and preferences. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking referrals from specialists is also crucial in this process.