08039, Harrisonville, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08039, Harrisonville, New Jersey is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Decoding Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 08039

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey, and choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review analyzes the breast cancer care landscape for residents near ZIP code 08039 (Medford, NJ), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll examine flagship institutions, their performance metrics, and the evolving role of telehealth in providing comprehensive care.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The 08039 ZIP code is strategically located, offering access to a range of hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These include major players in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, as well as regional healthcare systems. The quality of care, however, can vary significantly.

**Virtua Health System: A Major Player**

Virtua Health System is a dominant force in South Jersey, with several hospitals within reach of Medford. Virtua Voorhees Hospital is a flagship, boasting a high volume of breast cancer cases. It's important to note that CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, a widely used indicator of overall hospital quality, can fluctuate. Checking the most recent ratings on the CMS Hospital Compare website is crucial. Virtua Voorhees typically has a good reputation for its breast cancer program, often featuring accreditation from the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer. This accreditation signifies a commitment to comprehensive care, including multidisciplinary teams, patient navigation, and access to clinical trials.

Virtua Memorial Hospital of Burlington County, another Virtua facility, also serves the area. While it may not have the same volume as Voorhees, it still provides breast cancer services. The quality of care at each Virtua facility can vary, so understanding the specific strengths of each is important.

**Cooper University Health Care: A Philadelphia Powerhouse**

Cooper University Health Care, located in Camden, NJ, is a major academic medical center and a significant option for residents near 08039. Cooper's MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper is a prominent presence in the region. Cooper often handles complex cases and offers cutting-edge treatments, including clinical trials. The hospital's reputation for research and advanced treatment options is a significant draw. Cooper's CMS star rating should be checked regularly.

**Jefferson Health: Expanding Reach**

Jefferson Health, another Philadelphia-based system, also has a presence in the region. Jefferson's hospitals, like Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital, are accessible to 08039 residents. Jefferson's breast cancer programs often benefit from the system's broader resources and research capabilities. Checking the specific accreditation and performance metrics of each Jefferson facility is essential.

**Assessing Hospital Performance: Key Metrics**

Beyond CMS star ratings, several factors are vital in evaluating breast cancer care.

**Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) is a strong indicator of quality. CoC accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards for cancer care, including multidisciplinary teams, patient navigation, and supportive services.

**Patient Volumes:** Hospitals that treat a high volume of breast cancer cases often have more experienced specialists and a greater understanding of the disease.

**Survival Rates:** While complex to interpret, survival rates are a crucial indicator of treatment effectiveness. These rates are often available through hospital websites and publicly available databases, such as the National Cancer Database.

**ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to breast cancer care, long ER wait times can be a sign of overall hospital congestion and resource constraints. Shorter wait times often indicate a more efficient and responsive healthcare system. Information on ER wait times can often be found on hospital websites or through third-party websites like Google.

**Specialized Services: Beyond the Basics**

Comprehensive breast cancer care extends beyond surgery and chemotherapy.

**Multidisciplinary Teams:** Look for hospitals that offer multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and nurses. These teams collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Patient Navigation:** Patient navigators are crucial for guiding patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. They provide emotional support, help coordinate appointments, and connect patients with resources.

**Genetic Counseling and Testing:** Access to genetic counseling and testing is essential for women with a family history of breast cancer. This information can inform risk assessment and preventative strategies.

**Reconstructive Surgery:** Hospitals should offer a range of reconstructive surgery options, including immediate and delayed reconstruction.

**Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation programs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access and Convenience**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in breast cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care.

**Telemedicine Consultations:** Many hospitals now offer telemedicine consultations for initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. This can save patients time and travel.

**Remote Monitoring:** Some hospitals use remote monitoring technologies to track patients' symptoms and side effects, allowing for proactive intervention.

**Virtual Support Groups:** Online support groups provide a valuable resource for patients to connect with others and share their experiences.

**Specific Hospital Profiles: A Closer Look**

**Virtua Voorhees Hospital:** Known for its high volume of breast cancer cases and CoC accreditation. Offers a comprehensive range of services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and patient navigation. Check for the latest CMS star rating.

**Cooper University Health Care (MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper):** A major academic medical center offering advanced treatment options, including clinical trials. Often handles complex cases. Check for the latest CMS star rating.

**Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital:** Part of a large healthcare system, offering a range of breast cancer services. Check for the latest CMS star rating and specific accreditation.

**Accessibility Considerations:**

**Travel Time:** Consider the travel time to each hospital, as this can impact the convenience of appointments and treatments.

**Transportation Options:** Assess the availability of public transportation or the need for private transportation.

**Parking and Accessibility:** Ensure that the hospital has adequate parking and is accessible to patients with disabilities.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Consider the following:

* **Your Specific Needs:** What are your individual needs and preferences?
* **Doctor Recommendations:** Seek recommendations from your primary care physician or other specialists.
* **Hospital Reputation:** Research the hospital's reputation and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Visit the Hospital:** If possible, visit the hospital and meet with the breast cancer team.

By carefully considering these factors, residents near ZIP code 08039 can make an informed decision and choose a hospital that provides the best possible care. Remember to regularly check for updated information, including CMS star ratings and hospital accreditations, as these can change over time.