20910, Silver Spring, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20910, Silver Spring, Maryland is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near 20910

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near the 20910 ZIP code (Silver Spring, Maryland), evaluating their breast cancer care capabilities, including factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Silver Spring, boasts a strong healthcare infrastructure. This means residents of 20910 have access to a variety of hospitals, each with its own strengths in breast cancer care. This review aims to provide a factual overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**The Flagship Institutions: A Deep Dive**

**1. Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):** While not directly in 20910, Johns Hopkins Hospital is a regional and national leader, easily accessible from Silver Spring. Johns Hopkins consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States, including for cancer care. Their Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a renowned facility, offering comprehensive breast cancer services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Johns Hopkins Hospital generally receives a 4-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient experience, and safety.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty:** The Kimmel Center houses a dedicated Breast Cancer Program. This program provides a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They offer advanced imaging, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and access to clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** Johns Hopkins Hospital's ER wait times fluctuate. It's advisable to check current wait times on their website or through third-party apps like ER Wait Time before visiting.
* **Telehealth:** Johns Hopkins actively uses telehealth. Patients can access virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and some pre-operative consultations. They also offer virtual support groups and educational resources.
* **Accessibility:** Johns Hopkins is accessible via car, public transportation (including the MARC train), and ride-sharing services from Silver Spring.

**2. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (Washington, D.C.):** MedStar Georgetown is another major player in the region, offering a comprehensive cancer center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** MedStar Georgetown typically receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty:** The Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown provides breast cancer care. They offer a full spectrum of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They are involved in clinical trials and research.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at MedStar Georgetown can vary. Checking online resources before visiting is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** MedStar Georgetown utilizes telehealth for various services, including follow-up appointments, medication management, and some consultations.
* **Accessibility:** MedStar Georgetown is accessible via car, public transportation (including the Metro), and ride-sharing services from Silver Spring.

**3. University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):** Another major academic medical center within reasonable driving distance.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The University of Maryland Medical Center usually has a 3-star rating.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty:** The Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Maryland offers comprehensive breast cancer care. They have a multidisciplinary team and offer advanced treatments, including clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Checking online resources before visiting is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** The University of Maryland Medical Center offers telehealth services for certain appointments and consultations.
* **Accessibility:** Accessible by car, public transportation (including the MARC train), and ride-sharing services.

**4. Holy Cross Hospital (Silver Spring, MD):** Located directly in the 20910 area, Holy Cross Hospital is a convenient option for residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Holy Cross Hospital generally has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty:** Holy Cross Hospital has a dedicated breast center. They offer diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. They collaborate with other specialists as needed.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Holy Cross Hospital can vary. Check online resources before visiting.
* **Telehealth:** Holy Cross Hospital offers telehealth options for some appointments and consultations.
* **Accessibility:** Easily accessible by car and public transportation within Silver Spring.

**5. Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD):** Suburban Hospital, part of the Johns Hopkins Health System, is a close option for 20910 residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Suburban Hospital typically receives a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty:** Suburban Hospital has a breast care center that offers diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. They are affiliated with the Johns Hopkins network, providing access to resources and expertise.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Suburban Hospital can vary. It's best to check online resources before visiting.
* **Telehealth:** Suburban Hospital offers telehealth options for some appointments and consultations.
* **Accessibility:** Accessible by car and public transportation from Silver Spring.

**Important Considerations: Beyond the Big Names**

While the flagship hospitals offer comprehensive services, smaller hospitals and outpatient centers also play a vital role in breast cancer care.

* **Outpatient Imaging Centers:** Numerous outpatient imaging centers in the 20910 area offer mammograms, ultrasounds, and other diagnostic tests. These centers often provide convenient access for screening and follow-up.
* **Community Oncology Practices:** Many community oncology practices provide medical oncology and chemotherapy services. These practices often offer a more personalized approach and can be a good option for ongoing treatment.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Radiation therapy is a crucial part of breast cancer treatment. Several radiation oncology centers in the area offer advanced radiation techniques.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, especially in emergency situations. Wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. Websites like ER Wait Time and individual hospital websites provide real-time or estimated wait times. It's crucial to check these resources before heading to the ER.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. Many hospitals and practices offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from a hospital, have mobility issues, or need convenient access to care. However, telehealth is not always appropriate for all types of appointments or procedures.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Many hospitals have specialized breast cancer centers or programs that offer a multidisciplinary approach to care. These centers often have dedicated teams of physicians, nurses, and support staff who specialize in breast cancer treatment. They may also offer access to clinical trials and innovative therapies.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide, Not a Guarantee**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. However, they are just one factor to consider. It's essential to research individual hospitals, read patient reviews, and consult with your primary care physician or oncologist to determine the best fit for your needs.

**Making the Right Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. It’s important to consider factors like:

* **Proximity:** How close is the hospital to your home or work?
* **Specialty:** Does the hospital have a dedicated breast cancer center or program?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital offer a team of specialists (surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, etc.)?
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Does the hospital participate in clinical trials?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance?
* **Patient Reviews:** What are other patients saying about their experiences?
* **Your Doctor's Recommendations:** What does your doctor recommend?

**Conclusion**

Residents of the 20910 area have access to a strong network of hospitals and healthcare providers for breast cancer care. This review provides a factual overview of the major institutions, including their strengths, weaknesses, and key features. By carefully considering the factors discussed, patients can make informed decisions and choose the hospital that best meets their individual needs. Remember to consult with your healthcare providers and conduct thorough research to ensure you receive the best possible care.