21780, Sabillasville, Maryland Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 21780, Sabillasville, Maryland is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Frederick, MD Area: A Scorecard for 21780

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a critical journey. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 21780 (Frederick, MD), focusing on key indicators like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is quality. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, a valuable tool for gauging overall hospital performance. However, it’s important to understand that these ratings are based on data primarily from Medicare patients and may not fully reflect the experience of all patients.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Located directly in Frederick, MD, Frederick Health Hospital (formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital) is the primary healthcare provider for the area. It has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. Frederick Health Hospital has a dedicated cancer center.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:** While not directly in 21780, several other hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance and offer breast cancer services. These include hospitals in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore metropolitan areas. However, their CMS ratings can vary, and travel time is a factor to consider.

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

Emergency room wait times can be a significant indicator of a hospital's capacity and efficiency. While ER wait times are constantly fluctuating, understanding the average wait times at local hospitals is crucial, especially in an emergency situation.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital typically reports average ER wait times. However, these times can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases. It's always advisable to check current wait times using online tools or by calling the hospital directly.

**Other Hospitals:** Hospitals in the surrounding areas also publish their ER wait times. These times should be compared to determine which hospital can provide the quickest access to care.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise**

Specialized care is vital in breast cancer treatment. Hospitals with dedicated breast centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital houses a dedicated cancer center. The center typically offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs), surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, immunotherapy), radiation oncology, and support services like genetic counseling and survivorship programs. The presence of a dedicated breast center is a significant advantage.

**Beyond Frederick:** Hospitals in the Washington, D.C. and Baltimore areas often have renowned cancer centers. These centers may offer cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise in specific types of breast cancer. However, these options require travel.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Technology**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is the first step in breast cancer treatment. Access to advanced imaging technology is essential.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital offers advanced imaging capabilities, including digital mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. These technologies are crucial for detecting and staging breast cancer.

**Other Hospitals:** Hospitals in the larger metropolitan areas often have access to even more advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and PET scans.

**Surgical Oncology and Treatment Options**

The surgical approach to breast cancer varies depending on the stage and type of cancer. Access to skilled surgeons and a range of surgical options is essential.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital has experienced surgeons who perform various breast cancer surgeries, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and sentinel node biopsies. The hospital also offers breast reconstruction options.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy**

Medical oncologists are responsible for developing and administering chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other systemic treatments.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital has medical oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. The hospital has a dedicated infusion center where patients receive these treatments.

**Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. Access to radiation oncologists and advanced radiation therapy equipment is essential.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital offers radiation oncology services. The hospital has advanced radiation therapy equipment and experienced radiation oncologists.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with oncologists and other specialists. Telehealth can be a convenient option for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**Other Hospitals:** Hospitals in the surrounding areas also offer telehealth services. The availability of telehealth options can vary depending on the specialty and the specific provider.

**Support Services and Patient Navigation**

Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. Support services, such as patient navigation, counseling, and support groups, are crucial for patients and their families.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital offers a range of support services, including patient navigation, counseling, and support groups. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complex healthcare system and coordinate their care.

**Other Hospitals:** Hospitals in the surrounding areas also offer support services. The availability of these services can vary.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital participates in clinical trials.

**Other Hospitals:** Hospitals in the larger metropolitan areas often have more extensive clinical trial programs.

**Financial Considerations and Insurance Coverage**

The cost of breast cancer treatment can be substantial. Understanding insurance coverage and financial assistance options is crucial.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital accepts a wide range of insurance plans. The hospital has a financial assistance program for patients who qualify.

**Other Hospitals:** Hospitals in the surrounding areas also accept a variety of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical factor in choosing a hospital. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and surveys can provide valuable insights.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Online reviews and patient testimonials are available for Frederick Health Hospital. It's important to read these reviews and consider the experiences of other patients.

**Other Hospitals:** Online reviews and patient testimonials are also available for hospitals in the surrounding areas.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for research, but it's essential to consider individual needs and preferences.

**Key Takeaways:**

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** Offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including a dedicated cancer center, advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and telehealth capabilities. CMS rating is 3 stars.
* **Proximity:** Being in Frederick, MD, makes Frederick Health Hospital a convenient option.
* **Specialized Centers:** Hospitals in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore may offer more specialized services and access to clinical trials, but require travel.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options are available at Frederick Health Hospital.
* **Research:** Investigate the hospital's participation in clinical trials.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews to get a sense of the patient experience.
* **Insurance:** Confirm that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Next Steps:**

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options.
* **Schedule consultations:** Meet with oncologists and surgeons at different hospitals.
* **Ask questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about treatment options, costs, and support services.
* **Trust your instincts:** Choose the hospital and care team that you feel most comfortable with.