03273, South Sutton, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03273, South Sutton, New Hampshire is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 03273: A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents of the New Hampshire ZIP code 03273 (New London and surrounding areas), several hospitals offer services, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the available options, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer patients.

**Dartmouth Health: A Regional Powerhouse**

Dartmouth Health, with its flagship facility Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in Lebanon, NH, is the dominant healthcare provider in the region. DHMC is a large, tertiary care center with a comprehensive breast cancer program. It boasts a high-volume breast cancer center, offering a full spectrum of services, from screening and diagnosis to surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

DHMC’s Breast Cancer Program is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a mark of quality indicating adherence to rigorous standards. This accreditation signifies that the program provides multidisciplinary care, including access to surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists who collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans.

DHMC’s cancer center offers advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of breast cancers, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. They also provide genetic counseling and testing for patients at high risk of developing breast cancer.

DHMC's CMS Star Rating is a crucial indicator of overall hospital quality. As of the latest available data, DHMC's CMS star rating is a 4-star rating, which is above average and indicates good performance in various quality metrics. While not specific to breast cancer care, it reflects the hospital's commitment to patient safety and quality.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth at DHMC**

Emergency room wait times are a concern for any patient. DHMC’s ER wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Patients can access real-time wait time information on the DHMC website. Telehealth services are also an increasingly important aspect of healthcare delivery. DHMC offers telehealth options for certain follow-up appointments and consultations, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of breast cancer patients utilizing telehealth services, are not readily available but the hospital is known to have a robust telehealth program.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

While DHMC is the major provider, other hospitals in the vicinity of 03273 offer breast cancer services. These include:

* **New London Hospital:** Located within the 03273 ZIP code, New London Hospital is a smaller, community hospital. It offers breast imaging services, including mammography, and provides referrals to specialists for further diagnosis and treatment. However, it does not have a comprehensive breast cancer center like DHMC.

* **Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital (Lebanon, NH):** Part of the Dartmouth Health system, Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital is another option. It offers breast imaging services and some outpatient cancer care, but the more complex treatments are typically handled at DHMC.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

DHMC has a dedicated cancer center that houses a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The center provides access to clinical trials, offering patients the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research. DHMC also has specialized support services, including oncology social workers, nutritionists, and physical therapists, to help patients manage the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer treatment.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when selecting a hospital for breast cancer care:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the NAPBC.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital has a team of specialists who collaborate on treatment plans.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Check for access to advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography.
* **Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, inquire about the availability of clinical trials.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as social work, nutrition counseling, and physical therapy.
* **Location and Access:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant concern, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to their cancer treatment. While DHMC strives to minimize wait times, it's essential to be aware that wait times can fluctuate. Checking real-time wait time information on the hospital's website or through their app is always a good idea.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care, allowing patients to receive some care remotely. DHMC offers telehealth options for certain follow-up appointments and consultations, which can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital. Remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, are also being used to monitor patients' health and detect potential problems early.

**Breast Cancer Statistics and Outcomes**

Breast cancer survival rates have improved significantly in recent decades due to advancements in treatment and early detection. The five-year survival rate for all stages of breast cancer is over 90%. However, survival rates can vary depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the type of cancer, and other factors. DHMC, as a high-volume cancer center, likely has outcomes that are comparable to or better than national averages. Specific breast cancer outcome data for DHMC, such as five-year survival rates for different stages of cancer, is available through the hospital’s cancer center or the National Cancer Database.

**The Importance of Screening and Early Detection**

Regular breast cancer screening, including mammograms, is crucial for early detection. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. Women should follow the screening guidelines recommended by their healthcare providers, which may vary depending on their age, risk factors, and family history.

**Conclusion**

For residents of the 03273 ZIP code, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center stands out as the primary provider of comprehensive breast cancer care. Its NAPBC accreditation, multidisciplinary approach, advanced imaging capabilities, and access to clinical trials make it a strong choice. While other hospitals in the area offer breast imaging and some cancer services, DHMC is the best option for complex care. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their decision. Regular breast cancer screening and open communication with your healthcare provider are essential for optimal outcomes.