03303, Concord, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03303, Concord, New Hampshire is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in Concord, NH: A Comprehensive Review**

Concord, New Hampshire, centered around the 03303 ZIP code, offers a landscape of healthcare options for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer. This review examines the key hospitals and healthcare facilities in the area, focusing on their capabilities, performance metrics, and patient experience, providing a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

The primary healthcare provider in Concord is **Concord Hospital**, a major regional medical center. Concord Hospital is a large facility offering a comprehensive range of medical services, including cancer care. Concord Hospital is a teaching hospital, affiliated with the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) data is a key indicator of quality. Concord Hospital currently holds a **4-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across several key areas, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Specialized Cancer Care at Concord Hospital**

Concord Hospital's **Eileen M. Foley Breast Health Center** is a dedicated facility specializing in breast health. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. The center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, a testament to its commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care.

**Diagnostic and Treatment Capabilities**

The Breast Health Center provides a full range of diagnostic services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The center utilizes advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), to improve the detection of breast cancer. In terms of treatment, the center offers surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. Concord Hospital has a dedicated radiation oncology department, ensuring patients have access to the latest radiation therapy techniques.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience at Concord Hospital**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial aspect of patient experience. While specific wait times fluctuate, data from CMS and other sources provides some insight. Concord Hospital's ER wait times are generally in line with or slightly better than the national average. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured by CMS's Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, are generally positive. Patients report satisfaction with the care they receive, the communication from their providers, and the overall hospital experience.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Concord Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, particularly important for cancer patients who may face mobility challenges or live in rural areas. Telehealth services include virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and support groups. The hospital has increased its telehealth offerings, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

**Other Healthcare Providers and Considerations**

While Concord Hospital is the primary provider, other healthcare options exist in the area. Several private practices and specialist clinics offer breast cancer-related services. These practices may provide diagnostic imaging, surgical consultations, or supportive care services. The availability of these services can vary, and patients should research and compare options to find the best fit for their needs.

**Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinics and Affiliations**

Concord Hospital has affiliations with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, a major academic medical center located in Lebanon, NH. This affiliation provides access to a wider range of specialized services and expertise, including advanced cancer treatments and clinical trials. Patients may be referred to Dartmouth-Hitchcock for specific treatments or consultations not available at Concord Hospital.

**Support Services and Community Resources**

Breast cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. Concord and the surrounding areas offer a range of support services for patients and their families. These resources include support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs. The American Cancer Society and other organizations provide valuable resources and information.

**Comparing Hospitals: A Comparative Perspective**

Given the dominance of Concord Hospital, direct comparisons with other hospitals within the immediate 03303 area are limited. The closest major hospital with a different network affiliation is Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. However, this is a significant distance away.

**Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center**

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, located in Lebanon, NH, is a tertiary care center with a strong reputation for cancer care. It is a teaching hospital and has a comprehensive cancer center. Dartmouth-Hitchcock has a 4-star CMS rating. While not directly within the 03303 ZIP code, it is a regional resource for specialized care.

**Factors to Consider in Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider several factors, including:

* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team, including surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists, are crucial.
* **Treatment Options:** Access to a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials, is important.
* **Technology and Facilities:** The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography and MRI, and modern treatment facilities can improve outcomes.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction, communication from providers, and overall hospital experience are important factors.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling services, and other resources can significantly impact a patient's well-being.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital and providers are in-network with your insurance plan is essential.

**Specific Considerations for the 03303 Area**

The 03303 ZIP code and the surrounding areas are primarily served by Concord Hospital. Patients in this area should carefully evaluate the services offered by Concord Hospital, including the Eileen M. Foley Breast Health Center. If specialized treatments or clinical trials are required, patients may need to consider seeking care at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center or other regional facilities.

**Data Sources and Limitations**

This review relies on data from various sources, including CMS, hospital websites, and other publicly available information. Data on ER wait times and patient satisfaction can fluctuate. It is important to verify specific information with the hospitals directly.

**Conclusion**

Breast cancer care in the 03303 area is primarily centered around Concord Hospital, offering a comprehensive range of services through its Eileen M. Foley Breast Health Center. The hospital's 4-star CMS rating and its affiliation with Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center provide patients with access to quality care and specialized expertise. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital and healthcare provider. Further research and direct communication with healthcare providers are essential to make informed decisions about breast cancer care.