04966, Phillips, Maine Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 04966, Phillips, Maine is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Rural Maine: A Scorecard for 04966

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting task, and choosing the right medical team is paramount. For residents of the 04966 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Skowhegan, Maine, access to comprehensive breast cancer care requires careful consideration of available resources. This review examines the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on key factors like quality metrics, specialist availability, and accessibility. While 04966 is a rural area, several hospitals offer varying levels of care, with some requiring travel for advanced treatment.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Skowhegan doesn't boast a large concentration of major medical centers. Residents typically rely on a combination of local services and referrals to larger facilities. The closest hospitals offer primary and secondary care, while tertiary care, including specialized cancer treatment, often necessitates travel to Portland or Bangor. This review will assess hospitals based on their proximity, services offered, and overall quality, providing a practical guide for patients and their families.

**Flagship Hospitals and Quality Metrics: A Deep Dive**

One of the most important factors to consider is the quality of care provided. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website offers a valuable tool for assessing hospital performance through a star rating system. However, it's important to note that not all hospitals are rated, and the system has limitations.

**Redington-Fairview General Hospital (Skowhegan, ME):** Located directly within the 04966 ZIP code, Redington-Fairview General Hospital (RFGH) is a critical access hospital serving the immediate community. RFGH offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and chemotherapy. However, it does not have a dedicated breast cancer center. Patients often receive initial diagnosis and some treatment here, but complex cases typically require referral to larger facilities. The hospital’s CMS star rating is not readily available, highlighting the limitations of the system for smaller, rural hospitals. ER wait times are a crucial consideration for any emergency situation. While specific wait times fluctuate, local reports suggest wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should always be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours.

**CMMC (Central Maine Medical Center, Lewiston, ME):** Approximately 45 miles from Skowhegan, Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston is a larger regional hospital. CMMC has a more extensive range of services, including a cancer center that provides chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. CMMC's CMS star rating is not available. ER wait times are variable, and patients should contact the hospital directly for current estimates. CMMC's proximity and comprehensive cancer services make it a more viable option for residents of 04966.

**MaineGeneral Medical Center (Augusta, ME):** Located approximately 50 miles from Skowhegan, MaineGeneral Medical Center (MGMC) in Augusta is another major regional hospital. MGMC has a comprehensive cancer care program, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. MGMC's CMS star rating is not readily available. ER wait times are variable, and patients should contact the hospital directly for current estimates. MGMC is an important option for breast cancer care in the region.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center (Bangor, ME):** Approximately 75 miles from Skowhegan, Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor offers a specialized cancer institute. EMMC's Cancer Care program includes a dedicated breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. EMMC's CMS star rating is not available. ER wait times are variable, and patients should contact the hospital directly for current estimates. EMMC's specialized breast cancer center makes it a strong contender for more complex cases.

**Specialty Centers and Multidisciplinary Approach**

The most effective breast cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various fields working together. This includes surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff.

**Redington-Fairview General Hospital:** While RFGH offers initial diagnostic imaging and some chemotherapy, it lacks a dedicated breast cancer center. Patients needing surgery or radiation therapy are typically referred to other hospitals.

**CMMC:** CMMC's cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. This allows for coordinated care under one roof.

**MaineGeneral Medical Center:** MGMC’s cancer care program also offers a multidisciplinary approach, with a full range of specialists.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center:** EMMC's specialized breast cancer center boasts a multidisciplinary team, providing comprehensive care.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Early Detection**

Early detection is crucial for successful breast cancer treatment. Access to high-quality diagnostic imaging, including mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs, is essential.

**Redington-Fairview General Hospital:** RFGH offers mammography services.

**CMMC:** CMMC provides a full range of diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**MaineGeneral Medical Center:** MGMC offers a full range of diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center:** EMMC offers a full range of diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**Telehealth and Remote Care: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas, allowing patients to access specialists without traveling long distances.

**Redington-Fairview General Hospital:** RFGH may offer limited telehealth services. Patients should inquire directly.

**CMMC:** CMMC likely offers telehealth consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**MaineGeneral Medical Center:** MGMC likely offers telehealth consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center:** EMMC likely offers telehealth consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**Support Services: Beyond Medical Treatment**

Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical procedures. Support services, such as counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs, are vital for patients' well-being.

**Redington-Fairview General Hospital:** RFGH likely offers limited support services.

**CMMC:** CMMC's cancer center likely offers a range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**MaineGeneral Medical Center:** MGMC’s cancer care program likely offers a range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center:** EMMC's specialized breast cancer center likely offers a range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Accessibility and Travel Considerations**

For residents of 04966, travel is a significant factor. The distances to larger hospitals can be considerable, requiring careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Patients should factor in travel time, potential traffic, and the availability of parking.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of breast cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options at each hospital.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options**

For residents of the 04966 ZIP code, the best breast cancer care often involves a combination of local services and referrals to larger regional hospitals. While Redington-Fairview General Hospital provides essential local care, patients may need to travel to CMMC, MaineGeneral Medical Center, or Eastern Maine Medical Center for specialized treatment. The choice of hospital depends on the individual's needs, the complexity of the case, and their willingness to travel. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, consult with their primary care physician, and seek second opinions to make informed decisions about their care. The best course of action will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.