39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 39581, Pascagoula, Mississippi is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Your Backyard: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 39581

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized care and supportive resources, is a crucial first step. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 39581 (Waveland, Mississippi) to provide a fact-rich overview, helping you make informed decisions about your care. We'll delve into hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options, offering a comprehensive look at the available resources.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Focused Care**

The immediate vicinity of Waveland presents a limited number of hospitals. However, the region benefits from the presence of larger healthcare systems within a reasonable driving distance, offering a range of services for breast cancer patients. This review will primarily focus on the most accessible options, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

**Ochsner Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Ochsner Health System, with its flagship hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana (approximately 60 miles west of Waveland), is a significant player in the region. While not directly in the ZIP code, its proximity and comprehensive services make it a primary consideration.

* **Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans:** This hospital is a major referral center and a hub for advanced cancer care. It boasts a high-volume breast cancer program, treating a diverse range of cases. Ochsner New Orleans is known for its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to develop personalized treatment plans. They offer a full spectrum of services, including:
* **Surgical Oncology:** Ochsner provides access to experienced breast surgeons performing lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive procedures. They also offer sentinel lymph node biopsies and axillary lymph node dissections.
* **Medical Oncology:** The hospital's medical oncology department offers chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They participate in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Ochsner has advanced radiation therapy equipment, including linear accelerators, for precise targeting of tumors. They offer external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy, and other techniques.
* **Breast Imaging:** Ochsner has comprehensive breast imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. They offer diagnostic and screening mammograms, and they utilize advanced technologies such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis).
* **Support Services:** Ochsner offers a range of support services, including patient navigators, social workers, and support groups. They also have resources for genetic counseling and survivorship care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Ochsner can vary, but patients should anticipate a wait, particularly during peak hours. It's always advisable to check real-time wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room.

* **Telehealth:** Ochsner has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility issues. They provide telehealth options for oncology appointments, including medication management and survivorship care.

**Memorial Hospital at Gulfport: A Local Option**

Located approximately 40 miles east of Waveland, Memorial Hospital at Gulfport is a closer option for residents. It offers a comprehensive cancer center and a range of services for breast cancer patients.

* **The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center:** Memorial Hospital at Gulfport's cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They have a dedicated team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Memorial Hospital has experienced breast surgeons who perform a variety of procedures, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive surgeries.
* **Medical Oncology:** The hospital's medical oncology department offers chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and hormonal therapies. They also participate in clinical trials.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Memorial Hospital has advanced radiation therapy equipment and offers a range of radiation therapy techniques.
* **Breast Imaging:** The hospital provides mammography, ultrasound, and other breast imaging services.
* **Support Services:** Memorial Hospital offers patient navigators, social workers, and support groups to help patients through their cancer journey.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Memorial Hospital at Gulfport holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Memorial Hospital at Gulfport can fluctuate. It's recommended to check current wait times online or by phone.

* **Telehealth:** Memorial Hospital offers some telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Singing River Health System:** While not directly in the immediate vicinity, Singing River Health System (located in Pascagoula, Mississippi, about 60 miles east of Waveland) has cancer care services. However, the specific scope of their breast cancer program requires individual research.

* **Smaller Clinics and Outpatient Centers:** The area has smaller clinics and outpatient centers that may offer breast imaging services, such as mammograms. These facilities can be convenient for screening but typically don't provide comprehensive cancer treatment.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Expertise of the Medical Team:** Look for hospitals with experienced breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Check their credentials, experience, and specialization.
* **Availability of Specialized Services:** Ensure the hospital offers the specific services you need, such as advanced imaging, genetic counseling, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, social workers, and support groups.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the hospital's patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access.
* **Hospital Ratings:** While CMS star ratings are a useful starting point, they are not the only factor. Research other hospital ratings, such as those from U.S. News & World Report, and consider factors such as patient satisfaction scores.

**Making the Right Choice:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. It's crucial to research the available options, weigh the factors that are most important to you, and consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers. The hospitals near ZIP code 39581 offer a range of services, from comprehensive cancer centers to convenient outpatient clinics. By carefully evaluating your options, you can find the hospital that best meets your needs and provides the highest quality of care. Remember to gather all relevant medical records, ask questions, and advocate for your health throughout the process. Good luck.