20714, North Beach, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20714, North Beach, Maryland is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Decoding the Best Hospitals Near 20714

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the 20714 ZIP code (Bowie, Maryland) and evaluates their breast cancer care based on factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth availability. This information is intended to provide a starting point for your research and should be supplemented with consultations with your physician and other healthcare professionals.

**Proximity and Flagship Institutions:**

The 20714 ZIP code is strategically located, offering access to a mix of community hospitals and larger, more specialized institutions in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Proximity is a key consideration, especially during treatment. While the immediate area offers local options, the presence of nationally recognized hospitals within a reasonable driving distance provides access to cutting-edge treatments and experienced specialists.

**University of Maryland Capital Region Health (UM Capital Region Health):**

UM Capital Region Health, located in Largo, MD, is a significant player in the region. While it doesn't have a dedicated, standalone "breast center," it offers a range of services related to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes imaging services such as mammograms and biopsies. Patients should confirm the availability of specific breast cancer specialists and treatment options, like surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, with the hospital directly. The hospital's CMS star rating is a crucial data point. You can find the most up-to-date information on the CMS website. ER wait times are another important factor, particularly in emergencies. Check the hospital's website or a third-party site like ER Wait Times to get the most recent data.

**Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center:**

Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and surgical capabilities. They may have specific programs or partnerships with breast cancer specialists. Verify the availability of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff, before making any decisions. Always check the hospital's CMS star rating and current ER wait times on their website or a third-party source.

**MedStar Health System Hospitals:**

MedStar Health operates several hospitals in the broader area, including MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, MD. While not directly in the 20714 ZIP code, it's within a reasonable driving distance. MedStar Health hospitals are often associated with academic medical centers and may offer access to clinical trials and advanced treatments. Investigate whether MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center has a dedicated breast cancer center or program. Research the specific services offered, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. Look for information about the hospital's CMS star rating and ER wait times.

**MedStar Washington Hospital Center (Washington, D.C.):**

Located in Washington, D.C., MedStar Washington Hospital Center is a flagship hospital within the MedStar system. It is a larger, more specialized facility and often attracts patients seeking complex care. The hospital has a dedicated breast cancer program, which is a significant advantage. The program typically includes a multidisciplinary team of specialists, offering comprehensive care from diagnosis to survivorship. The hospital's CMS star rating is an important indicator of overall quality. Consider the travel time and parking availability when assessing this option. ER wait times can vary, so check the latest data on the hospital's website or a third-party source.

**Johns Hopkins Medicine:**

Johns Hopkins Medicine is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals in the Baltimore area, which is accessible from the 20714 ZIP code. While not immediately local, Johns Hopkins offers exceptional cancer care, including specialized breast cancer centers. The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is a highly respected institution. Accessing care at Johns Hopkins may require longer travel times, but the potential benefits of specialized expertise and advanced treatment options are significant. Research the specific breast cancer programs and services offered at Johns Hopkins hospitals, including access to clinical trials. The CMS star rating is not always applicable to all Johns Hopkins facilities; check individual hospital ratings where available.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Centers and Programs:**

A dedicated breast cancer center is a major advantage. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff under one roof. Look for centers that offer:

* **Advanced Imaging:** State-of-the-art mammography, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), MRI, and ultrasound.
* **Surgical Options:** Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** External beam radiation therapy, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).
* **Genetic Counseling:** To assess risk and guide treatment decisions.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to cutting-edge research and innovative treatments.
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in oncology. Many hospitals and cancer centers now offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. Telehealth can reduce the need for travel, especially for routine appointments. Check the availability of telehealth services at each hospital, including:

* **Virtual consultations with oncologists and surgeons.**
* **Remote monitoring of patients.**
* **Online support groups and educational resources.**
* **Access to patient portals for communication and information sharing.**

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times are an important consideration, especially if you experience symptoms or complications related to your breast cancer treatment. Long wait times can be stressful and potentially delay necessary care. Check the ER wait times for each hospital using the hospital's website or a third-party website like ER Wait Times. Note that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance in various quality measures. These ratings can be a helpful tool for comparing hospitals. Check the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date star ratings for each hospital. Keep in mind that CMS ratings are just one factor to consider, and they may not reflect all aspects of a hospital's quality of care.

**Key Considerations for Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Expertise and Experience:** Look for hospitals with experienced breast cancer specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive care.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to state-of-the-art imaging and treatment options is essential.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Read patient reviews and check patient satisfaction scores to get a sense of the hospital's culture and patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the travel time and parking availability.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Check for virtual consultations and other telehealth services.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides information on hospitals near the 20714 ZIP code, but it is not exhaustive. Research each hospital thoroughly, consult with your physician, and consider your individual needs and preferences. Remember to verify all information directly with the hospitals, as services and ratings can change. Good luck on your journey.