03216, Andover, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03216, Andover, New Hampshire is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Granite State: A Review for ZIP Code 03216

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. For residents of ZIP code 03216 (Bristol, New Hampshire, and surrounding areas), access to quality care is a priority. This review examines the breast cancer resources and performance of hospitals in the region, focusing on factors relevant to patients, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The immediate vicinity of 03216 offers a mix of smaller community hospitals and access to larger, more specialized facilities within a reasonable driving distance. The primary players in the area include:

* **Speare Memorial Hospital (Plymouth, NH):** While not directly in 03216, Speare Memorial is a vital regional hospital, offering a range of services.
* **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):** This is a flagship hospital, a major referral center and a significant presence in the region.
* **Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH):** Located further afield, but still accessible, Catholic Medical Center provides comprehensive care.

**Speare Memorial Hospital: A Community Focus**

Speare Memorial Hospital, located in Plymouth, is the closest hospital to 03216. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it serves a rural population and provides essential services. Speare Memorial offers breast cancer screening services, including mammography, and can provide initial diagnoses. However, it is not a comprehensive cancer center. Patients requiring complex treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, are typically referred to larger facilities.

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center: A Regional Leader**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH, is the most significant healthcare provider for breast cancer care accessible to residents of 03216. DHMC is a large, academic medical center and a tertiary referral center. This means it handles complex cases and offers a wide range of specialized services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** DHMC consistently receives high ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The CMS star rating system provides a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. DHMC has consistently earned a high rating, reflecting its commitment to quality care.
* **Specialty Centers:** DHMC houses a comprehensive cancer center, with a dedicated breast cancer program. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans.
* **Breast Cancer Surgery:** DHMC offers a full range of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. The hospital has a team of experienced breast surgeons specializing in these procedures.
* **Medical Oncology:** The medical oncology department provides chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. DHMC participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment.
* **Radiation Oncology:** DHMC's radiation oncology department utilizes advanced technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), to deliver precise radiation treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at DHMC can vary. While the hospital strives to provide timely care, wait times can fluctuate depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone if you require emergency care.
* **Telehealth:** DHMC has invested significantly in telehealth services. Patients can access virtual consultations with their oncologists, attend support groups online, and receive remote monitoring. Telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.
* **Patient Experience:** DHMC places a strong emphasis on patient experience. The hospital conducts patient satisfaction surveys and uses the feedback to improve its services.
* **Clinical Trials:** DHMC is actively involved in breast cancer research and offers patients the opportunity to participate in clinical trials. These trials can provide access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in cancer care.

**Catholic Medical Center: A Comprehensive Option**

Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester, NH, is another option for breast cancer care, though it's further from 03216. CMC is a regional medical center with a comprehensive cancer program.

* **Cancer Center:** CMC's cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. The center provides a range of services, including screening, diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care.
* **Surgery:** CMC has experienced breast surgeons who perform a variety of surgical procedures, including lumpectomy and mastectomy.
* **Medical Oncology:** The medical oncology department provides chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** CMC's radiation oncology department uses advanced technologies to deliver precise radiation treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CMC can vary. It's recommended to check current wait times before seeking emergency care.
* **Telehealth:** CMC offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, to improve access to care for patients.
* **CMS Star Rating:** CMC's CMS star rating is generally good, indicating a commitment to quality care.

**Considerations for Patients in 03216:**

* **Proximity:** While Speare Memorial offers local services, DHMC is the primary destination for comprehensive breast cancer care. CMC is a further option.
* **Specialized Care:** DHMC and CMC have comprehensive breast cancer programs with multidisciplinary teams.
* **Telehealth:** DHMC and CMC offer telehealth options, which can be beneficial for patients in rural areas.
* **Insurance:** Confirm that your insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals you are considering.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like the hospital's reputation, patient experience, and the availability of support services.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of 03216 have access to a range of options, from local community hospitals to regional medical centers. DHMC, with its comprehensive cancer center and high CMS star rating, is a strong contender. CMC also provides comprehensive services. Patients should research their options, consider their individual needs, and consult with their primary care physicians to make the best choice for their care.

**Disclaimer:** *This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.*