03223, Campton, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03223, Campton, New Hampshire is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Heart of New Hampshire: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near ZIP Code 03223

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near the ZIP code 03223 (Concord, New Hampshire) to help patients navigate their options. We'll examine key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a clear picture of the available resources.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Concord area benefits from a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity to Boston, approximately an hour and a half drive, expands access to highly specialized care. This review focuses on the primary hospitals within a reasonable radius, emphasizing their strengths and weaknesses in the realm of breast cancer treatment.

**Key Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

When evaluating hospitals, breast cancer patients should consider several factors. These include the availability of a multidisciplinary team (surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists), access to advanced imaging and treatment modalities (mammography, MRI, chemotherapy, radiation therapy), participation in clinical trials, and supportive services (counseling, rehabilitation). Patient experience, including wait times and communication, also plays a significant role.

**Hospital Profiles: A Detailed Look**

**1. Concord Hospital (Concord, NH)**

Concord Hospital is a cornerstone of healthcare in the region. It's a major employer and provides a broad range of services. While not a flagship academic medical center, it offers comprehensive cancer care through its Payson Center for Cancer Care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Concord Hospital generally receives a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The Payson Center provides a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. They offer a breast health program with screening mammography and diagnostic services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Average ER wait times at Concord Hospital are typically around 30-45 minutes, which is in line with the national average. However, these times can fluctuate.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Payson Center is the primary specialty center for cancer care. They also have a dedicated women's health center.
* **Telehealth:** Concord Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations for certain oncology services and follow-up appointments.
* **Clinical Trials:** Concord Hospital participates in some clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments. However, the breadth of trials may be limited compared to larger academic centers.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at Concord Hospital are generally positive, with patients often praising the staff's compassion and the quality of care. However, like any hospital, individual experiences can vary.

**2. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH - Approximately 1 hour from Concord)**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) is a large, academic medical center, offering a wider range of specialized services and research opportunities. While a drive from Concord, it is a major regional referral center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** DHMC generally receives a 4-star rating from CMS, reflecting a higher level of quality and patient safety compared to Concord Hospital.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** DHMC's Norris Cotton Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, advanced treatments, and a multidisciplinary approach. They offer a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like proton therapy), medical oncology, and supportive care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at DHMC can vary, but are often longer than at community hospitals, potentially exceeding an hour.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Norris Cotton Cancer Center is a major specialty center. DHMC also has centers for women's health and other specialized areas.
* **Telehealth:** DHMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring for many cancer patients.
* **Clinical Trials:** As an NCI-designated center, DHMC has a vast portfolio of clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest research and treatment options.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at DHMC are generally good, though some patients report longer wait times and a more complex healthcare system compared to smaller hospitals.

**3. Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH - Approximately 30 minutes from Concord)**

Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester is another option within a reasonable driving distance. It is a member of the GraniteOne Health system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CMC typically receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** CMC offers a breast health center with screening and diagnostic services. They provide surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CMC are often comparable to Concord Hospital, averaging around 30-45 minutes.
* **Specialty Centers:** CMC has a cancer center offering a range of services.
* **Telehealth:** CMC has telehealth capabilities, including virtual appointments for oncology patients.
* **Clinical Trials:** CMC participates in some clinical trials, though the scope may be more limited than at DHMC.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews for CMC are mixed, with some patients praising the staff and care, while others express concerns about wait times and communication.

**4. Elliot Hospital (Manchester, NH - Approximately 30 minutes from Concord)**

Elliot Hospital, also located in Manchester, is another major provider in the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Elliot Hospital typically receives a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Elliot offers a breast health center with screening and diagnostic services. They provide surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Elliot are often comparable to Concord Hospital, averaging around 30-45 minutes.
* **Specialty Centers:** Elliot has a cancer center offering a range of services.
* **Telehealth:** Elliot has telehealth capabilities, including virtual appointments for oncology patients.
* **Clinical Trials:** Elliot participates in some clinical trials, though the scope may be more limited than at DHMC.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews for Elliot are mixed, with some patients praising the staff and care, while others express concerns about wait times and communication.

**Telehealth and Breast Cancer Care: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in breast cancer care. Hospitals near 03223, including Concord Hospital, DHMC, CMC, and Elliot, are expanding their telehealth offerings. This can include virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and support group meetings. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, and for patients living in rural areas.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the stage of their cancer. Factors to weigh include:

* **Stage and Type of Cancer:** Patients with more advanced cancers or rare subtypes may benefit from the specialized expertise and clinical trial access at a comprehensive cancer center like DHMC.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of access are important considerations, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like the hospital's culture, the communication style of the medical team, and the availability of support services.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options**

For residents of the 03223 area, the options for breast cancer care include Concord Hospital, Catholic Medical Center, Elliot Hospital, and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. Concord Hospital offers convenient access to a comprehensive cancer center with a good reputation in the community. Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, while further away, provides access to a leading NCI-designated cancer center with a broader range of services and clinical trials. Catholic Medical Center and Elliot Hospital offer another option in the Manchester area.

Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering the factors discussed above, and consult with their primary care physician and other healthcare providers to make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. The information provided here is intended as a starting point for that process, not a substitute for professional medical advice.