04929, Detroit, Maine Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04929, Detroit, Maine is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Central Maine: A Scorecard for Patients Near 04929

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right care, close to home, shouldn't add to the stress. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 04929 (Farmington, Maine) to provide a fact-rich assessment of their breast cancer services, focusing on key metrics relevant to patient experience and outcomes.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in central Maine is dominated by a few key players. Proximity to larger urban centers like Portland and Bangor influences access to specialized services. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in travel time for residents of the Farmington area.

**Franklin Memorial Hospital (Farmington, ME): A Local Anchor**

Franklin Memorial Hospital, located directly within the 04929 ZIP code, serves as a primary care provider and offers a range of services. While not a dedicated cancer center, it plays a crucial role in the initial diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

* **Accreditation and Recognition:** Franklin Memorial Hospital is a member of MaineHealth, a large integrated health system. It is accredited by the Joint Commission, a standard indicator of quality and safety.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The hospital offers diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and potentially breast MRI. Biopsy services are available for tissue sampling. They also provide surgical oncology services, including lumpectomy and mastectomy.
* **Collaboration and Referrals:** Franklin Memorial Hospital has established referral pathways to specialized cancer centers, particularly within the MaineHealth network. This ensures patients can access advanced treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources like the ER Wait Times app.
* **Telehealth:** Franklin Memorial Hospital offers telehealth services, which can be valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists, especially for those in rural areas.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Franklin Memorial Hospital has a CMS Star Rating of 3 stars.

**Maine Medical Center (Portland, ME): A Flagship Option**

Maine Medical Center (MMC), located in Portland, is a major referral center for the state and a potential option for patients in the 04929 area. The drive is approximately 1.5 hours.

* **Comprehensive Cancer Care:** MMC houses the Harold Alfond Cancer Center, a comprehensive cancer center offering a full spectrum of services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care.
* **Accreditation and Recognition:** MMC is a Magnet-recognized hospital, demonstrating excellence in nursing care. It is also accredited by the Commission on Cancer, a program of the American College of Surgeons.
* **Specialized Breast Cancer Services:** MMC offers advanced breast cancer treatments, including clinical trials, genetic counseling, and reconstructive surgery. They have a dedicated breast cancer program with specialized surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **ER Wait Times:** As a large, tertiary care center, ER wait times at MMC can vary. Patients should check real-time data on the hospital's website or through online resources.
* **Telehealth:** MMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients traveling from a distance.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Maine Medical Center has a CMS Star Rating of 3 stars.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center (Bangor, ME): Another Major Referral Center**

Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC), located in Bangor, is another large referral center approximately 1.5 hours from Farmington.

* **Cancer Care:** EMMC houses the Lafayette Family Cancer Center, a comprehensive cancer center offering a range of services.
* **Accreditation and Recognition:** EMMC is accredited by the Commission on Cancer and has a strong reputation for cancer care in the region.
* **Specialized Breast Cancer Services:** EMMC provides diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They offer advanced treatments, including clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at EMMC can fluctuate. Patients should check real-time data on the hospital's website or through online resources.
* **Telehealth:** EMMC has a telehealth program that can be used for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Eastern Maine Medical Center has a CMS Star Rating of 3 stars.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Specialty Centers:** Patients with complex breast cancer cases may benefit from seeking care at a dedicated cancer center. Both Maine Medical Center and Eastern Maine Medical Center have specialized breast cancer programs.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider factors beyond clinical outcomes, such as patient reviews, support services, and the overall hospital environment. Online resources like Healthgrades and the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey can provide insights into patient satisfaction.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and providers are in your insurance network.
* **Support Services:** Cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. Look for hospitals that offer support groups, counseling services, and access to resources for financial assistance and patient navigation.
* **Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another oncologist or breast cancer specialist, especially if you have any doubts or concerns about your treatment plan.

**Comparing the Options:**

For residents of 04929, Franklin Memorial Hospital provides accessible local care, including diagnostic services and surgical options. For more advanced treatment, Maine Medical Center and Eastern Maine Medical Center offer comprehensive cancer centers with specialized breast cancer programs. The choice depends on individual needs, the complexity of the diagnosis, and the patient's preference for proximity versus access to specialized services.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. Patients should be aware of average wait times at each hospital and consider this when making healthcare decisions. Real-time data is often available on hospital websites or through online apps.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. These services can provide access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. However, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as the hospital's specific breast cancer program and the expertise of the medical team.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near 04929 to evaluate their options, considering factors like proximity, specialized services, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and overall quality of care. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians, gather information from multiple sources, and make an informed decision based on their individual needs and preferences.