21156, Upper Falls, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21156, Upper Falls, Maryland is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near ZIP Code 21156

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer treatment can feel overwhelming. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 21156 (Reisterstown, Maryland), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine factors like hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a snapshot of the available resources.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Key Players**

ZIP code 21156 is strategically located, offering access to a range of hospitals in the Baltimore metropolitan area. This includes both community hospitals and major academic medical centers. Proximity is crucial, especially during treatment, which often involves frequent appointments. This review will focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like traffic patterns.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Gauge of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general overview of quality. While not the sole determinant, it's a useful starting point. Hospitals are rated on a scale of one to five stars, with five being the highest.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC):** Located in Baltimore, UMMC is a flagship hospital. As of the latest data, UMMC has a CMS star rating of [Insert current CMS star rating]. This rating reflects performance across various areas, including patient experience, readmission rates, and mortality. UMMC has a dedicated breast cancer program and is a major referral center.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Another prominent institution, Johns Hopkins Hospital, also located in Baltimore, consistently ranks among the top hospitals nationally. Johns Hopkins Hospital's CMS star rating is [Insert current CMS star rating]. Their breast cancer center is renowned for its comprehensive approach, integrating cutting-edge research and advanced treatment options.

* **Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC):** GBMC, located in Towson, MD, is a community hospital with a strong reputation. GBMC's CMS star rating is [Insert current CMS star rating]. GBMC offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical consideration, especially during treatment when unexpected complications can arise. While wait times fluctuate, they provide a sense of how quickly you can expect to be seen. Data on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites or through resources like ProPublica's Hospital Compare.

* **UMMC:** UMMC's ER wait times typically vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. Check the hospital's website or a reliable source like ProPublica for the most up-to-date information.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital's ER wait times are often longer due to the high volume of patients and the complexity of cases. Checking current wait times is crucial before seeking care.

* **GBMC:** GBMC's ER wait times are often shorter than those at larger, academic centers. This can be a significant factor for patients seeking timely care.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Focused Expertise**

Specialized breast cancer centers offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together experts from various fields. These centers often provide access to clinical trials, advanced imaging technologies, and supportive services.

* **UMMC's Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center:** UMMC's Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, indicating a high level of research and treatment expertise. The center offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. They offer access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

* **Johns Hopkins Breast Center:** The Johns Hopkins Breast Center is a leading center for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. It offers a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and plastic surgery. They are known for their innovative research and advanced treatment options.

* **GBMC's Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute:** GBMC's Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care, including a dedicated breast cancer program. They offer surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Accessing Care Remotely**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services. Hospitals are expanding their telehealth offerings to improve patient access and convenience.

* **UMMC:** UMMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for various services, including oncology consultations and follow-up care. Check their website for specific telehealth options related to breast cancer.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital offers a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups. Their telehealth services can be especially helpful for patients living outside of the immediate Baltimore area.

* **GBMC:** GBMC has also embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments for certain services. Check their website for specific telehealth options related to breast cancer.

**Surgical Options and Expertise:**

The availability of skilled surgeons and advanced surgical techniques is crucial. Hospitals offer a range of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.

* **UMMC:** UMMC has a team of experienced breast surgeons who perform a wide range of procedures, including minimally invasive techniques. They also offer reconstructive surgery options.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital is renowned for its surgical expertise, offering advanced surgical techniques and a high level of specialization. They have surgeons specializing in various aspects of breast cancer surgery, including oncoplastic surgery.

* **GBMC:** GBMC has a team of skilled breast surgeons who perform lumpectomies, mastectomies, and other breast cancer-related surgeries. They also offer reconstructive surgery options.

**Radiation Oncology: Precision and Expertise**

Radiation therapy is a critical component of breast cancer treatment. Hospitals offer various radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

* **UMMC:** UMMC's Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center offers advanced radiation therapy technologies, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital has state-of-the-art radiation oncology facilities, offering advanced treatment options and expertise in radiation therapy techniques.

* **GBMC:** GBMC offers radiation therapy services, providing patients with access to this essential treatment modality.

**Medical Oncology: Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies**

Medical oncologists specialize in chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They work closely with surgeons and radiation oncologists to develop comprehensive treatment plans.

* **UMMC:** UMMC's Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center has a team of medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer. They offer access to the latest chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital has a team of medical oncologists with extensive experience in treating breast cancer. They offer access to clinical trials and innovative therapies.

* **GBMC:** GBMC has medical oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies for breast cancer.

**Supportive Services: Holistic Care**

Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical interventions. Supportive services, such as counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation, are crucial for overall well-being.

* **UMMC:** UMMC offers a range of supportive services, including counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital provides comprehensive supportive services, including counseling, social work, and rehabilitation.

* **GBMC:** GBMC offers supportive services, including counseling and support groups, to help patients cope with the challenges of breast cancer.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments**

Clinical trials offer access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer care.

* **UMMC:** UMMC's Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center actively participates in clinical trials, providing patients with opportunities to access cutting-edge therapies.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital is a leader in breast cancer research and offers numerous clinical trials.

* **GBMC:** GBMC may offer clinical trials or participate in clinical trials through collaborations with other institutions. Inquire directly.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan. Inquire about financial assistance programs if needed.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Contact the hospitals directly to schedule consultations, ask questions, and gather additional information. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or oncologist for personalized recommendations. This information should be used as a starting point, and further research is recommended. Good luck.