20853, Rockville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20853, Rockville, Maryland is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Bethesda, MD (ZIP Code 20853)

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal and critical decision. Proximity to home, the expertise of the medical team, and the availability of cutting-edge technology are all vital considerations. For residents in and around Bethesda, Maryland (ZIP Code 20853), a wealth of options exists, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the leading hospitals in the area, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Players and General Considerations**

The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area boasts several nationally recognized hospitals, many within a short drive of Bethesda. These institutions often feature comprehensive cancer centers, specialized breast cancer programs, and access to clinical trials. However, navigating the healthcare system can be complex. Patients should consider factors like insurance coverage, transportation accessibility, and personal preferences when making their choice.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**1. Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD):** Located directly within the 20853 ZIP code, Suburban Hospital is a key player. It is part of Johns Hopkins Medicine, a prestigious system known for its research and clinical excellence. Suburban Hospital has a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While CMS ratings are not a perfect measure, they offer a glimpse into overall hospital performance, considering factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Suburban Hospital's breast cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. They provide a full spectrum of services, from screening and diagnosis to surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and survivorship care. They have a dedicated Breast Center, which streamlines the patient experience. ER wait times at Suburban Hospital vary, but the hospital strives to maintain efficient patient flow. Data from the Hospital Compare website indicates that the average ER wait time is generally within the national average.

**2. Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):** Located approximately a 45-minute drive from Bethesda, Johns Hopkins Hospital is a world-renowned institution. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation and has a five-star CMS rating. Johns Hopkins' Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, signifying its commitment to research, clinical trials, and comprehensive cancer care.

The Kimmel Cancer Center offers a dedicated Breast Cancer Program with leading-edge treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and access to numerous clinical trials. The hospital's reputation attracts highly skilled specialists. Johns Hopkins Hospital's ER wait times can be longer than those at smaller hospitals, particularly during peak hours. However, the hospital's size and resources allow it to handle a high volume of patients.

**3. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (Washington, D.C.):** Situated about a 20-minute drive from Bethesda, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital is another prominent option. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with Georgetown University and has a three-star CMS rating. The hospital's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center is an NCI-designated cancer center.

The Lombardi Cancer Center offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care services. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach and offers access to clinical trials. ER wait times at MedStar Georgetown can fluctuate, and it is advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party platforms.

**4. Sibley Memorial Hospital (Washington, D.C.):** Also part of Johns Hopkins Medicine, Sibley Memorial Hospital is located in Washington, D.C., and is about a 20-minute drive from Bethesda. It has a four-star CMS rating. Sibley offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including surgical services, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care.

The hospital emphasizes a personalized approach to treatment, with a focus on patient education and support. Sibley Memorial Hospital's ER wait times are generally comparable to those of other hospitals in the area.

**Specialty Centers and Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialized centers and factors warrant consideration:

* **The Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (Bethesda, MD):** Located within the 20853 ZIP code, Walter Reed provides care for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. It has a dedicated cancer center and offers breast cancer treatment services. Access to care at Walter Reed is determined by eligibility and military healthcare benefits.

* **Imaging Centers:** Access to high-quality imaging services is crucial for breast cancer diagnosis and monitoring. Hospitals in the area, as well as independent imaging centers, offer mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and other advanced imaging modalities. Patients should inquire about the qualifications of radiologists and the types of imaging equipment available.

* **Genetic Counseling:** For patients with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, genetic counseling and testing are essential. Many hospitals and cancer centers have genetic counselors on staff who can assess individual risk and provide guidance on appropriate screening and prevention strategies.

* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with opportunities to receive cutting-edge treatments. The NCI-designated cancer centers, such as Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center and Georgetown's Lombardi Cancer Center, are actively involved in clinical research and offer a wide range of clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments and supportive care. Hospitals in the Bethesda area are expanding their telehealth capabilities. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals. Johns Hopkins Medicine, for example, has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times can be a significant factor for patients seeking immediate care. While wait times fluctuate, it is important to have an understanding of the average wait times at different hospitals. Websites like Hospital Compare and third-party platforms often provide data on ER wait times. However, these are averages and may not reflect the current wait time at any given moment. Patients should also consider the severity of their condition when deciding where to seek emergency care.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex process. Patients should gather information from multiple sources, including their primary care physician, oncologists, and other healthcare providers. They should research the hospitals in their area, considering factors like the expertise of the medical team, the availability of advanced technologies, access to clinical trials, and patient experience. Visiting the hospitals, if possible, and speaking with current patients can also provide valuable insights.

This review provides a starting point for patients in the Bethesda area to begin their research. By carefully considering the factors discussed, patients can make an informed decision and find the best possible care for their individual needs.