08019, Chatsworth, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08019, Chatsworth, New Jersey is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 08019**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for care is a critical decision. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 08019 (Cherry Hill, New Jersey) based on factors relevant to breast cancer treatment, including quality metrics, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, including Cherry Hill, offers a range of options for breast cancer care. Proximity to major medical centers in Philadelphia expands choices. This review will consider both local hospitals and those within a reasonable driving distance.

**Quality Metrics: A Key Consideration**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general measure of quality. While not specific to breast cancer, these ratings reflect overall performance. Hospitals with higher star ratings often demonstrate better adherence to evidence-based practices.

**Virtua Voorhees Hospital**

Virtua Voorhees Hospital, located near 08019, is a major player in the region. It is a large hospital and is often considered a flagship facility within the Virtua Health System. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it generally maintains a good rating. Virtua Voorhees has a dedicated breast care program, the Virtua Breast Care Center. This center offers a comprehensive range of services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, indicating adherence to rigorous standards of care. ER wait times at Virtua Voorhees are generally within the regional average, but can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing for virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer patients are difficult to obtain, but the hospital system has invested in expanding its telehealth capabilities.

**Cooper University Hospital**

Cooper University Hospital, located in Camden, NJ, is another major medical center within a short drive of Cherry Hill. Cooper is a teaching hospital and a Level I trauma center, indicating a high level of resources and expertise. CMS star ratings for Cooper can fluctuate, but it typically maintains a solid rating. Cooper's MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. This program provides a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery collaborating on patient care. The MD Anderson affiliation brings access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. ER wait times at Cooper can vary, and are often longer than at some suburban hospitals, reflecting the high volume of patients. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists.

**Jefferson Health System**

Jefferson Health System, with its flagship Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, is another prominent option. Jefferson has a strong reputation for cancer care. While the main hospital is in Philadelphia, Jefferson has several satellite locations and partnerships in the South Jersey area, offering convenient access to care. CMS star ratings vary across the Jefferson system, but the main hospital generally receives a high rating. Jefferson's Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, with access to advanced imaging technologies, surgical expertise, and clinical trials. ER wait times at Jefferson's Philadelphia facilities can be longer than at suburban hospitals. Telehealth services are increasingly available, including virtual appointments with oncologists and other specialists.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general hospital ratings, it's crucial to consider specialized breast cancer centers and programs. These centers often provide a more focused and coordinated approach to care.

**The Virtua Breast Care Center**

The Virtua Breast Care Center, mentioned earlier, offers a comprehensive range of services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, indicating adherence to rigorous standards of care.

**MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper**

The MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, as noted, offers a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery collaborating on patient care. The MD Anderson affiliation brings access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

**The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson**

The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, with access to advanced imaging technologies, surgical expertise, and clinical trials.

**Accessibility: Travel and Wait Times**

Accessibility is a significant factor. Driving times from Cherry Hill to the hospitals mentioned above are generally manageable. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can impact travel times. ER wait times are another important consideration. While data fluctuates, it's advisable to inquire about average wait times at each hospital.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. It offers the convenience of virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. All the major hospitals mentioned in this review offer telehealth services, including virtual appointments with oncologists and other specialists.

**Specific Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

Breast cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. Patients should look for hospitals with:

* **Accredited Breast Centers:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer indicates adherence to quality standards.
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** A team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, is essential.
* **Access to Advanced Imaging:** Technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI are crucial for diagnosis and staging.
* **Genetic Counseling and Testing:** For patients with a family history of breast cancer, genetic counseling and testing are important.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services, are vital for patient well-being.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. The hospitals near ZIP code 08019 offer a range of options, from large, comprehensive medical centers to specialized breast care centers. Virtua Voorhees Hospital, Cooper University Hospital, and Jefferson Health System are all strong contenders, each with its strengths. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their choice. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare providers, and consideration of the factors discussed in this review will help patients make an informed decision and receive the best possible care.