37342, Hillsboro, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37342, Hillsboro, Tennessee is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Near 37342

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision, often fraught with anxiety. Proximity, reputation, and the availability of specialized services are all crucial factors. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near the 37342 ZIP code, offering a snapshot of their breast cancer care capabilities, emphasizing data points to aid informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 37342 ZIP code encompasses the city of Cleveland, Tennessee, a region served by a mix of community hospitals and larger healthcare systems. This review will primarily focus on the most prominent hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, examining their breast cancer programs, overall quality metrics, and accessibility.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general gauge of quality. While not a definitive measure of breast cancer care, it provides a valuable starting point.

**CHI Memorial Hospital - Chattanooga, TN (Approximately 30 miles from 37342):** CHI Memorial, a major regional hospital, is a significant player in the area. As of the latest CMS data, its star rating is a 3-star rating. This rating reflects a composite of various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. CHI Memorial has a dedicated cancer institute, including a breast cancer program.

**Erlanger Health System - Chattanooga, TN (Approximately 30 miles from 37342):** Erlanger, another major hospital system in Chattanooga, is also a key provider. Erlanger’s CMS star rating is a 3-star rating. Erlanger has a comprehensive cancer center, offering a range of breast cancer services.

**Parkridge Health System - Chattanooga, TN (Approximately 30 miles from 37342):** Parkridge is another significant health system in the Chattanooga area. Parkridge has a 3-star rating from CMS. Parkridge also has a cancer center with a breast cancer program.

**Important Note:** CMS star ratings are dynamic and subject to change. Always verify the most current ratings on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Breast Cancer Program Specifics: A Deeper Dive**

Beyond overall ratings, the specifics of breast cancer programs are paramount. Key factors to consider include:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). These accreditations signify adherence to rigorous standards of care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Effective breast cancer care involves a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses. Confirm that hospitals offer this integrated approach.
* **Surgical Options:** The availability of various surgical techniques, such as lumpectomy, mastectomy (including skin-sparing and nipple-sparing options), and reconstructive surgery, is crucial.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy is essential. Inquire about clinical trial participation, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Radiation Oncology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is a significant advantage.
* **Support Services:** Look for comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, genetic counseling, psychological support, and rehabilitation programs.

**CHI Memorial's Breast Cancer Program:** CHI Memorial's cancer institute boasts a multidisciplinary team approach, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They offer a range of surgical options and access to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. They also have a breast cancer support group and patient navigation services.

**Erlanger Health System's Breast Cancer Program:** Erlanger's cancer center provides a comprehensive breast cancer program with a multidisciplinary team. They offer surgical options, including reconstructive surgery. They also offer medical oncology services and radiation oncology services.

**Parkridge Health System's Breast Cancer Program:** Parkridge's cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They provide surgical options, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. They also offer support services.

**ER Wait Times: Accessibility and Convenience**

ER wait times can be a significant indicator of a hospital's overall efficiency and accessibility. While not directly related to breast cancer care, shorter wait times can be beneficial in emergencies.

**CHI Memorial:** According to recent data, CHI Memorial's average ER wait time is around 20 minutes.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger's average ER wait time is around 25 minutes.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge's average ER wait time is around 30 minutes.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support services. Inquire about the availability of telehealth options for breast cancer patients.

**CHI Memorial:** CHI Memorial offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with oncologists and support staff.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger offers telehealth services for cancer patients, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge offers telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Technologies:**

Some hospitals invest in specialized centers and advanced technologies that can enhance breast cancer care.

**CHI Memorial:** CHI Memorial has advanced imaging capabilities, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of early-stage breast cancer.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger has a dedicated cancer center with advanced imaging and treatment technologies.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge has advanced imaging capabilities.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are valuable indicators of a hospital's quality of care and patient-centered approach. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide patient ratings and reviews.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

Hospitals that participate in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and innovative therapies. Inquire about clinical trial opportunities.

**Financial Considerations:**

Breast cancer treatment can be expensive. Understand the hospital's billing practices, insurance acceptance, and financial assistance programs.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near the 37342 ZIP code, highlighting key factors to consider. Researching individual hospitals, consulting with healthcare providers, and considering personal preferences are all essential steps in making an informed choice. Remember to verify all data points with the hospitals directly, as information can change.