02915, Riverside, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02915, Riverside, Rhode Island is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near 02915

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. This review aims to provide a clear-eyed look at the hospitals near the 02915 ZIP code, focusing on their breast cancer services, accessibility, and overall quality of care. We'll delve into specifics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth options, providing a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The 02915 ZIP code, encompassing Providence, Rhode Island, places residents within a relatively concentrated area of healthcare providers. Several major hospitals serve this region, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in the realm of breast cancer care. Proximity is a crucial factor during treatment, as frequent appointments and potential emergencies necessitate convenient access.

**Rhode Island Hospital: A Flagship Institution**

Rhode Island Hospital, located at 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903, is a prominent player. It’s a teaching hospital and the flagship facility of Lifespan, a major health system in the state. Rhode Island Hospital boasts a comprehensive breast cancer program, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Rhode Island Hospital holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While the rating is not the highest possible, it provides a benchmark for comparison. Data on specific breast cancer-related metrics within the CMS system can offer further insight into performance, but these are often aggregated within broader categories.

**Emergency Room Access and Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a critical consideration, especially during treatment. Rhode Island Hospital's ER, as a Level I trauma center, handles a high volume of patients. The most recent data indicates that average ER wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Rhode Island Hospital features a dedicated breast health center, providing a multidisciplinary approach to care. This often includes access to specialized radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, and support staff. The hospital offers advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), to aid in early detection. Genetic counseling and testing are also available for patients with a family history of breast cancer.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Rhode Island Hospital offers telehealth options for certain appointments, including follow-up consultations and support services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live further away or have mobility challenges. The availability of telehealth services varies depending on the specific department and provider.

**Women & Infants Hospital: A Focus on Women's Health**

Located at 101 Dudley Street, Providence, RI 02905, Women & Infants Hospital, also part of the Lifespan system, specializes in women's health. This hospital is renowned for its obstetrics and gynecology services, but it also offers a robust breast cancer program.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Women & Infants Hospital also holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Access and Wait Times:**

Women & Infants Hospital's ER, while smaller than Rhode Island Hospital's, still provides emergency care. ER wait times here can vary, but typically are shorter than Rhode Island Hospital. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Women & Infants Hospital's breast cancer program benefits from its focus on women's health. The hospital provides comprehensive breast cancer services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They also have a dedicated breast health center with access to specialized radiologists, surgeons, and support staff.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Women & Infants Hospital is expanding its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary depending on the department and provider.

**The Miriam Hospital: A Community-Focused Approach**

The Miriam Hospital, located at 164 Summit Avenue, Providence, RI 02906, is another key hospital in the area, also part of the Lifespan system. The Miriam Hospital provides a community-focused approach to healthcare, including breast cancer care.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

The Miriam Hospital holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Access and Wait Times:**

The Miriam Hospital's ER provides emergency care for the community. ER wait times here can vary. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The Miriam Hospital's breast cancer program provides comprehensive breast cancer services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They also have a dedicated breast health center with access to specialized radiologists, surgeons, and support staff.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

The Miriam Hospital is expanding its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary depending on the department and provider.

**Butler Hospital: Mental Health Support**

While not a primary provider of breast cancer treatment, Butler Hospital, located at 345 Blackstone Boulevard, Providence, RI 02906, is a critical resource for mental health support. Breast cancer treatment can significantly impact mental well-being, and access to psychiatric care and counseling is essential.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:**

Butler Hospital does not have a CMS star rating, as it is a psychiatric hospital.

**Emergency Room Access and Wait Times:**

Butler Hospital's ER provides emergency psychiatric care. ER wait times here can vary. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Butler Hospital provides comprehensive mental health services, including psychiatric care and counseling.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Butler Hospital is expanding its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary depending on the department and provider.

**Other Considerations: Accessibility and Support**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, consider factors like transportation, parking, and support services. Does the hospital offer convenient parking or access to public transportation? Are there support groups, patient navigators, or financial assistance programs available? These resources can significantly ease the burden of treatment.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important. All the hospitals mentioned are expanding their telehealth capabilities, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live further away or have mobility challenges. The availability of specific telehealth services varies depending on the department and provider.

**Outpatient Centers and Clinics:**

In addition to the main hospitals, various outpatient centers and clinics offer breast cancer services. These may include imaging centers, radiation oncology facilities, and chemotherapy infusion centers. These facilities can provide convenient access to specific treatments and services.

**Comparing and Contrasting:**

Rhode Island Hospital, as the flagship hospital, offers the broadest range of services and advanced technologies. Women & Infants Hospital's focus on women's health can be advantageous. The Miriam Hospital provides a community-focused approach. Butler Hospital is a critical resource for mental health support.

**Making an Informed Choice:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Research the specific services offered by each hospital, including the expertise of the medical team, the availability of support services, and the convenience of the location. Consult with your primary care physician and seek recommendations from other healthcare professionals. Don't hesitate to ask questions and visit the hospitals to get a feel for the environment and the level of care provided.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and treatment plans. Information on hospital services and wait times can change, so it's essential to verify details directly with the hospitals.