37880, Ten Mile, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 37880, Ten Mile, Tennessee is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Smoky Mountain Region: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 37880**

The pursuit of top-tier breast cancer care often begins with a search for the best hospitals. For residents near Sevierville, Tennessee, ZIP code 37880, several healthcare facilities offer varying levels of specialized services. This review examines key hospitals in the area, focusing on factors critical to breast cancer patients: overall quality, specialized centers, wait times, and access to innovative technologies.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center (Knoxville)**

Approximately 30 miles west of Sevierville, the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) in Knoxville stands as a prominent regional healthcare hub. UTMC is a flagship hospital, often attracting patients seeking comprehensive cancer care. It boasts a strong reputation, reflected in its status as a teaching hospital and its affiliation with the University of Tennessee. UTMC is recognized by the American College of Surgeons as a Commission on Cancer accredited facility, which indicates that it meets specific standards for cancer care.

UTMC's breast cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach. Patients have access to a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. The hospital’s cancer center provides advanced imaging services, including mammography, breast ultrasound, and MRI. UTMC also offers genetic counseling and testing for individuals with a family history of breast cancer.

The hospital's website provides information on its breast cancer survivorship programs, which are designed to support patients throughout and after treatment. These programs may include support groups, rehabilitation services, and educational resources.

UTMC’s CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a key metric for overall hospital quality. While the specific rating can fluctuate, patients should consult the most recent CMS data to assess UTMC's performance compared to other hospitals.

**Blount Memorial Hospital (Maryville)**

Closer to Sevierville, in Maryville, Blount Memorial Hospital offers a more local option for breast cancer care. While not a large academic center like UTMC, Blount Memorial provides essential services for diagnosis and treatment. It is also accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.

Blount Memorial's breast cancer program typically includes diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and chemotherapy services. Patients may also access support services, such as patient navigators who help guide them through the complexities of treatment.

The hospital's ER wait times are a significant consideration for patients needing immediate care. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the CMS, should be consulted to assess the average wait times at Blount Memorial's emergency department. This information is particularly important for patients experiencing symptoms that require prompt medical attention.

**Covenant Health Facilities (Knoxville and Surrounding Areas)**

Covenant Health, a large regional health system, operates several hospitals and outpatient centers in the Knoxville area. These facilities offer a network of care that can be beneficial for breast cancer patients.

Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, part of the Covenant Health system, is another hospital option. It is a comprehensive cancer center with a dedicated breast center. Fort Sanders Regional offers a range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans.

Parkwest Medical Center, also part of Covenant Health, is another facility offering breast cancer care. Like Fort Sanders Regional, Parkwest provides diagnostic services, surgical options, and chemotherapy. Patients may also access support services, such as patient navigators and support groups.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care**

ER wait times are a critical factor for patients experiencing symptoms related to breast cancer or complications from treatment. Hospitals are required to report their average ER wait times to the CMS. This information is available to the public and can be used to compare wait times across different facilities. Shorter wait times can be particularly important for patients experiencing pain, infection, or other urgent medical needs.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare, including breast cancer care. Telehealth allows patients to have virtual consultations with their doctors, receive remote monitoring, and access educational resources from the comfort of their homes.

Hospitals in the region are expanding their telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for appointments, follow-up care, and support groups. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Specialized Centers and Programs**

Specialized breast centers often offer a more focused and comprehensive approach to breast cancer care. These centers typically have dedicated teams of specialists, advanced imaging technology, and access to clinical trials.

Patients should inquire about the availability of specialized breast centers at the hospitals they are considering. These centers may offer services such as:

* **Genetic counseling and testing:** For patients with a family history of breast cancer.
* **Advanced imaging:** Including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI.
* **Surgical options:** Including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Chemotherapy and radiation therapy:** Administered by experienced oncologists and radiation therapists.
* **Clinical trials:** Offering access to the latest treatments and research.
* **Support services:** Including patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for breast cancer care, patients should consider several factors:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.
* **Multidisciplinary approach:** Ensure the hospital has a team of specialists working together.
* **Advanced technology:** Access to advanced imaging and treatment options.
* **Support services:** Availability of patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services.
* **Telehealth options:** Availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **ER wait times:** Consider the average wait times for emergency care.
* **CMS star rating:** Evaluate the hospital's overall quality and performance.
* **Proximity:** Consider the distance to the hospital and ease of access.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 37880, several hospitals offer breast cancer care. UTMC, as a flagship hospital, provides a comprehensive range of services. Blount Memorial and Covenant Health facilities offer local options. Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering their individual needs and preferences. By evaluating factors such as accreditation, specialized centers, wait times, and telehealth options, patients can make informed decisions about their breast cancer care.