39439, Heidelberg, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39439, Heidelberg, Mississippi is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near Hattiesburg, MS (ZIP Code 39439)

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is crucial, and this review provides a fact-based assessment of healthcare options near Hattiesburg, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39439), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care. This analysis considers factors like hospital quality ratings, specialized services, accessibility, and patient experience.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a regional hub, and the healthcare landscape reflects that. The primary hospital in the area is Forrest General Hospital. While smaller facilities exist, this review concentrates on the major players offering comprehensive breast cancer services. Proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring states, like Louisiana and Alabama, is also considered.

**Forrest General Hospital: The Core Provider**

Forrest General Hospital (FGH) is the dominant healthcare provider in Hattiesburg. It is a large, regional medical center offering a range of services, including those pertinent to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

* **CMS Star Rating:** As of the latest available data, Forrest General Hospital holds a CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating. This rating, based on a five-star scale, provides a general indication of hospital quality, considering factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. The specific star rating is subject to change, so it is essential to verify the most current rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** FGH offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, targeted therapies), radiation oncology, and supportive services.
* **Accreditations:** Forrest General Hospital likely holds accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer, which indicates a commitment to quality cancer care. Verify the hospital's accreditation status on the ACS website.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are an important consideration, especially in an emergency. Data on average ER wait times at FGH can be found on websites like ProPublica's Hospital Compare tool or through the hospital's website. However, keep in mind that wait times fluctuate.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important. Check if Forrest General offers telehealth consultations for oncology appointments, follow-up care, and support groups. Information on telehealth services is usually found on the hospital's website.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate if Forrest General has a dedicated breast center or a specific oncology center. These centers often provide a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to coordinate care.

**Beyond Forrest General: Regional Options**

While Forrest General is the primary provider, patients in the Hattiesburg area may also seek care at hospitals in nearby cities.

* **University Medical Center (UMC) in Jackson, Mississippi:** Located approximately 100 miles northwest of Hattiesburg, UMC is the state's only academic medical center. It offers a broader range of specialized services and research opportunities.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the current CMS star rating for UMC on the CMS website. Academic medical centers often have complex ratings due to their specialized services.
* **Breast Cancer Program:** UMC likely has a comprehensive breast cancer program with access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments.
* **Specialty Centers:** UMC likely has a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team.
* **Telehealth:** Academic medical centers often have robust telehealth programs.
* **Ochsner Health System in New Orleans, Louisiana:** New Orleans is a major medical hub, approximately 100 miles south of Hattiesburg. Ochsner offers a large network of hospitals and clinics with extensive cancer services.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Check the CMS star ratings for the various Ochsner hospitals. Ratings may vary depending on the specific location.
* **Breast Cancer Program:** Ochsner has a well-established breast cancer program with a focus on research and innovation.
* **Specialty Centers:** Ochsner likely has specialized cancer centers.
* **Telehealth:** Ochsner has a large telehealth program.
* **USA Health University Hospital in Mobile, Alabama:** Mobile, Alabama, is approximately 130 miles east of Hattiesburg. USA Health University Hospital is a teaching hospital with a comprehensive cancer program.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the CMS star rating.
* **Breast Cancer Program:** USA Health University Hospital has a comprehensive breast cancer program.
* **Specialty Centers:** USA Health University Hospital likely has a cancer center.
* **Telehealth:** USA Health University Hospital likely offers telehealth services.

**Key Considerations for Evaluation:**

* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are important. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's own website often provide patient feedback.
* **Oncologist Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the oncologists and surgeons at each hospital. Look for board certifications and specializations in breast cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Inquire about the availability of various treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatments. Check if the hospital participates in clinical trials for breast cancer.
* **Support Services:** Cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. Look for support services like counseling, support groups, nutritional counseling, and financial assistance programs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.

**Specific Questions to Ask:**

When choosing a hospital, it's important to ask specific questions:

* What is the hospital's experience with treating breast cancer?
* What are the success rates for breast cancer treatments?
* What types of breast cancer treatments are available?
* Does the hospital offer genetic testing and counseling?
* What support services are available for patients and their families?
* What are the hospital's infection control practices?
* What are the wait times for appointments and procedures?

**Accessibility and Convenience:**

Consider the distance to the hospital, traffic, and parking availability. Factor in the convenience of appointments, the availability of transportation, and the proximity to lodging for out-of-town patients.

**The Importance of Research:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for your research. It is crucial to gather information from multiple sources, including hospital websites, patient reviews, and your own healthcare providers. Consult with your primary care physician and, if possible, seek a second opinion from a breast cancer specialist.

**Conclusion:**

Forrest General Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in the Hattiesburg area and offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. However, patients should also consider regional options like UMC in Jackson, Ochsner in New Orleans, and USA Health University Hospital in Mobile, as these hospitals may offer specialized services and access to clinical trials. Thorough research, including evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth options, and patient reviews, is essential for making an informed decision. The best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and preferences.