20684, Saint Inigoes, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20684, Saint Inigoes, Maryland is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in Southern Maryland: A Scorecard for 20684**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for care is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 20684 (Waldorf, Maryland), focusing on factors crucial for breast cancer treatment: expertise, access, technology, and patient experience. This is not medical advice; consult with your physician for personalized guidance.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The 20684 ZIP code sits in a region with a mix of community hospitals and access to larger, specialized facilities. Proximity to Washington, D.C., offers additional options, but travel time and traffic are significant considerations. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, including those in Charles County and nearby Prince George's County, as well as flagship hospitals in the D.C. area.

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

University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center (UM CRMC) in La Plata is a key local provider. While not a dedicated cancer center, UM CRMC offers a breast health program, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy services. They also coordinate care with specialists. Their ER wait times, according to recent data, average around 30-45 minutes, which is relatively good for the region. UM CRMC has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects overall hospital quality, including patient safety and outcomes. While the hospital does not have a dedicated breast cancer center, it has a strong relationship with the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center in Baltimore, which provides advanced cancer care. Telehealth options are expanding at UM CRMC, allowing for some follow-up appointments and consultations.

**MedStar St. Mary's Hospital (Leonardtown, MD)**

Located further south, MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown is another option. They provide comprehensive breast health services, including screening and diagnostic imaging. They also have a breast cancer program that includes surgery and chemotherapy. They partner with MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute for advanced cancer care. ER wait times are typically in the 45-60 minute range. St. Mary's has a 3-star CMS rating. MedStar St. Mary's has been investing in telehealth services to increase access to care, especially for patients in more rural areas.

**Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center (Fort Washington, MD)**

Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center is located in Prince George's County. They offer a breast health center with mammography and diagnostic services. They also have surgical oncology services. Their ER wait times are usually around 45-60 minutes. Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. They are part of a larger health system, which provides access to a broader network of specialists. Telehealth options are available for some follow-up appointments.

**Flagship Hospitals: Expanding the Scope**

For more specialized care, patients often look to larger, flagship hospitals in the D.C. area. These hospitals often have dedicated cancer centers and access to cutting-edge treatments.

**MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (Washington, D.C.)**

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, located in Washington, D.C., is a major referral center. The MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer center offering a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials. They have a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery working together. ER wait times can vary, but are often longer than community hospitals, sometimes exceeding an hour. MedStar Georgetown has a 4-star CMS rating. They are at the forefront of research and offer access to the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD)**

Johns Hopkins Hospital, in Baltimore, is a world-renowned medical institution. The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins offers exceptional breast cancer care. This center provides a full range of services, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials. They have a team of highly specialized physicians and researchers. Travel to Baltimore is a consideration for patients in the 20684 area. ER wait times can vary, but are often longer than community hospitals. Johns Hopkins Hospital has a 5-star CMS rating, reflecting its high quality of care. They are leaders in research and innovation, with a focus on personalized medicine. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital (Falls Church, VA)**

Inova Fairfax Hospital, located in Falls Church, Virginia, is another option. The Inova Schar Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer center offering a wide range of breast cancer services, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Travel to Northern Virginia is a consideration for patients in the 20684 area. ER wait times can vary. Inova Fairfax has a 4-star CMS rating. They are known for their advanced technologies and patient-centered care. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Key Considerations: Beyond the Hospital**

Beyond the hospital itself, several factors are crucial in selecting a breast cancer treatment center:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC). This accreditation signifies a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A coordinated team of specialists (surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, nurses, and support staff) is essential.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer access to the latest treatments and research advancements.
* **Patient Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer support groups, counseling, and other resources to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Transportation and Parking:** Consider the ease of access to the hospital, including parking availability and transportation options.

**Telehealth: A Growing Factor**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care. Many hospitals offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**ER Wait Times: A Proxy for Access**

ER wait times are a useful, albeit imperfect, indicator of hospital access. Shorter wait times can suggest greater efficiency and potentially better access to care. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the cases being treated.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient safety, outcomes, and patient experience. While not a definitive measure, they can be a useful starting point for comparing hospitals.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of hospitals near ZIP code 20684, highlighting key factors to consider. Patients should research their options, consult with their physicians, and consider their individual needs and preferences when making a choice. The best hospital is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the best access to specialists and technology, and the most supportive environment for the patient's individual needs.