37359, Mulberry, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37359, Mulberry, Tennessee is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Shadow of Lookout Mountain: A Scorecard for 37359

Finding the right breast cancer care can be a daunting task. For residents near ZIP code 37359, which encompasses Lookout Mountain, Georgia, and surrounding areas, access to quality healthcare is a critical consideration. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals and their breast cancer services, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is designed to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The primary hospitals serving the 37359 area are located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, a short drive away. While options within Georgia are limited, the proximity to Chattanooga expands the available resources. This review will focus on the most relevant facilities for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.

**Erlanger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Erlanger Health System, with its flagship hospital, Erlanger Baroness Hospital, is a major player in the region. Erlanger Baroness Hospital holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and responsiveness. CMS star ratings, while not the sole indicator of quality, provide a valuable benchmark for comparison.

Erlanger's commitment to cancer care is evident in its comprehensive cancer centers. The Mary Ellen Locher Breast Center at Erlanger offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from the expertise of surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists working collaboratively. They also provide advanced imaging technologies, including mammography and breast MRI, crucial for early detection and diagnosis.

**ER Wait Times at Erlanger:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in healthcare access. Erlanger Baroness Hospital's ER wait times fluctuate, but it's essential to consider that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Patients should check current wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party resources like ER Wait Times.

**Telehealth and Digital Health at Erlanger:**

Erlanger has invested in telehealth services, offering remote consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility challenges. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate timely communication with healthcare providers. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with Erlanger.

**Parkridge Health System: A Focus on Specialized Care**

Parkridge Health System, another prominent healthcare provider in Chattanooga, offers another option for breast cancer care. Parkridge East Hospital, a key facility within the system, holds a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Erlanger Baroness. This suggests a comparable level of overall quality.

Parkridge's cancer services are centered at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at Parkridge. The Sarah Cannon network is known for its focus on advanced cancer treatments and clinical trials. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking cutting-edge therapies or access to innovative research.

**ER Wait Times at Parkridge:**

ER wait times at Parkridge East Hospital also fluctuate. Patients should consult the hospital's website or other online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth at Parkridge:**

Parkridge Health System also offers telehealth services, which may be available for breast cancer consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of specific telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**CHI Memorial: A Catholic Healthcare Presence**

CHI Memorial Hospital, another major healthcare provider in Chattanooga, is part of the CommonSpirit Health system. CHI Memorial holds a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a comparable level of overall quality.

CHI Memorial's cancer services are offered through the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center, which is associated with Erlanger. This can offer patients a range of options for care.

**ER Wait Times at CHI Memorial:**

ER wait times at CHI Memorial also fluctuate. Patients should consult the hospital's website or other online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth at CHI Memorial:**

CHI Memorial offers telehealth services, which may be available for breast cancer consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of specific telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Centers: A Deeper Dive**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a critical factor in assessing a hospital's commitment to breast cancer care. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient's needs.

The Mary Ellen Locher Breast Center, associated with both Erlanger and CHI Memorial, is a prominent example of a specialized center in the area. This center provides a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support services.

The Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at Parkridge offers a wide range of treatment options and clinical trials. This is particularly important for patients seeking access to the latest advancements in cancer care.

**Diagnostic Imaging: The Foundation of Early Detection**

Access to advanced diagnostic imaging is crucial for early detection and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer. All the major hospitals in the area offer mammography services. Additionally, breast MRI and other advanced imaging techniques are available at the specialized breast cancer centers.

**Surgical Options: A Spectrum of Choices**

The hospitals in the 37359 area offer a full spectrum of surgical options for breast cancer treatment, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. The availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques can improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times.

**Radiation Therapy: Targeted Treatment**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality for breast cancer. The hospitals in the area offer radiation therapy services, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

**Chemotherapy and Medical Oncology: Systemic Treatment**

Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy to treat breast cancer. The hospitals in the area have medical oncology departments that provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.

**Support Services: Beyond the Treatment**

Breast cancer treatment can be a challenging journey. The hospitals in the area offer a range of support services, including:

* **Patient navigators:** These individuals help patients navigate the healthcare system and coordinate their care.
* **Support groups:** These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others.
* **Counseling services:** These services can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of breast cancer.
* **Nutrition counseling:** This can help patients maintain a healthy diet during treatment.
* **Physical therapy:** This can help patients recover from surgery and other treatments.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like breast cancer. Telehealth can provide:

* **Remote consultations:** Patients can consult with their doctors from the comfort of their homes.
* **Follow-up appointments:** Patients can have follow-up appointments without having to travel to the hospital.
* **Remote monitoring:** Doctors can monitor patients' vital signs and other health data remotely.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovation**

Clinical trials offer patients access to the latest advancements in cancer care. The Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at Parkridge is known for its participation in clinical trials. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their doctors.

**Insurance Coverage: Navigating the Financial Landscape**

Patients should verify their insurance coverage with their insurance provider to ensure that they have access to the breast cancer services they need.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

For residents of 37359, the hospitals in Chattanooga offer a range of options for breast cancer care. Erlanger, Parkridge, and CHI Memorial all provide comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and support services. The availability of specialized breast cancer centers, telehealth services, and clinical trials adds to the strength of the local healthcare landscape. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital for their breast cancer care. They should also consult with their physicians to develop a personalized treatment plan. By understanding the available resources and making informed decisions, patients can improve their chances of a successful outcome.