03872, Sanbornville, New Hampshire Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 03872, Sanbornville, New Hampshire is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Seacoast: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 03872

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is daunting. For residents of the Seacoast region, specifically near ZIP code 03872 (Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and surrounding areas), access to quality care is paramount. This review examines the hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on their breast cancer services, overall quality, and accessibility. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to assist in informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The primary hospitals serving this area include Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Frisbie Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NH), and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital (Dover, NH). While other facilities may offer limited services, these three are the major players in breast cancer care within a reasonable driving distance. Proximity is a significant factor, especially during frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.

**Portsmouth Regional Hospital (PRH):**

Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a 200-bed facility, is a major healthcare provider in the Seacoast. It's a for-profit hospital and part of HCA Healthcare. As of the latest publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Portsmouth Regional Hospital holds a 3-star rating. This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on measures like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

PRH offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. The hospital has a dedicated Breast Health Center that provides a range of services, including mammography, ultrasound, breast biopsies, and surgical consultations. They also offer genetic counseling and testing. The hospital’s cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, indicating adherence to rigorous standards of care.

Regarding emergency room wait times, PRH's wait times can fluctuate. Data from the CMS indicates that the average ER wait time can vary, so it's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through real-time tracking apps before visiting the ER.

Telehealth services are increasingly important. PRH offers telehealth options, including virtual consultations with specialists. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in person. The availability of telehealth services can vary, so it's essential to inquire about specific options when scheduling appointments.

**Frisbie Memorial Hospital:**

Frisbie Memorial Hospital, located in Rochester, NH, is a community hospital with a focus on patient-centered care. Frisbie is part of HCA Healthcare. The hospital's CMS star rating is also a 3-star rating, according to the most recent available data.

Frisbie’s breast cancer services include screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and surgical services. They have a breast care center that provides a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care among surgeons, radiologists, and oncologists. The hospital also offers support services, such as support groups and patient navigation.

ER wait times at Frisbie can vary. It's wise to check current wait times on their website or through online resources before heading to the emergency room.

Telehealth services at Frisbie are available, including virtual consultations. The extent of these services and the specific specialties available through telehealth should be confirmed with the hospital directly.

**Wentworth-Douglass Hospital:**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, located in Dover, NH, is a non-profit community hospital. This hospital's CMS star rating is a 4-star rating. This higher rating suggests a stronger performance in various quality metrics compared to the other two hospitals.

Wentworth-Douglass offers a comprehensive breast health program, including advanced imaging services like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). They have a dedicated breast care center that provides a multidisciplinary approach to care, with access to surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They also offer genetic counseling and a range of supportive services. The hospital is affiliated with the Mass General Cancer Center.

ER wait times at Wentworth-Douglass can vary. It's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through real-time tracking apps before visiting the ER.

Wentworth-Douglass offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. The availability of telehealth services can vary, so it's essential to inquire about specific options when scheduling appointments.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond the core services, the presence of specialized centers and expertise is crucial. All three hospitals have access to surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. However, the specific experience and specialization of these physicians can vary. It's essential to inquire about the experience and expertise of the medical team when choosing a hospital.

The affiliation with larger cancer centers, such as Wentworth-Douglass's connection with Mass General Cancer Center, can provide access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and a broader network of specialists.

**Treatment Options and Technology:**

The availability of advanced treatment options and technology is a key consideration. All three hospitals offer surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy. The availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as sentinel node biopsy, is generally available.

Radiation therapy is a critical component of breast cancer treatment. The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), should be confirmed with each hospital.

Chemotherapy and targeted therapies are also essential. The hospitals offer chemotherapy and targeted therapies, often administered in dedicated infusion centers. The availability of clinical trials is a significant advantage, as it provides access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of care. The hospitals offer patient navigators who assist patients in navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Support groups, counseling services, and access to resources like wigs and prosthetics are also important. The availability of these services can vary between hospitals. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at each facility.

**Accessibility and Insurance:**

Accessibility, including ease of scheduling appointments, is a key factor. The hospitals accept a variety of insurance plans. It is essential to confirm that the hospital and the physicians are in-network with your insurance plan. The distance from your home and ease of parking should also be considered.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Frisbie Memorial Hospital, and Wentworth-Douglass Hospital each offer a range of services for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Wentworth-Douglass, with its higher CMS star rating and affiliation with Mass General Cancer Center, may offer a slightly more comprehensive approach. However, the best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Consider the factors discussed above, including the CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth options, and patient experience, to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and circumstances. Always consult with your primary care physician and seek a second opinion if needed.