38255, Sharon, Tennessee Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 38255, Sharon, Tennessee is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Northwest Tennessee: A Review for ZIP Code 38255

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality healthcare. For residents near ZIP code 38255 (covering the area around Paris, Tennessee), understanding the available options is crucial. This review examines the hospitals and healthcare resources closest to this area, focusing on factors important to breast cancer patients, including hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Proximity and Major Healthcare Providers**

The immediate vicinity of Paris, TN, is served primarily by Henry County Medical Center (HCMC). Further afield, residents may consider hospitals in Jackson, TN, and even venturing towards larger medical centers in Memphis, TN, or Nashville, TN, depending on their specific needs and preferences.

**Henry County Medical Center (HCMC): The Local Hub**

Henry County Medical Center (HCMC) in Paris, TN, is the primary hospital for residents in and around ZIP code 38255. While it doesn't have a specific, dedicated "Breast Cancer Center" with its own branding, HCMC offers a range of services relevant to breast cancer care. These include diagnostic imaging, such as mammography and ultrasound, as well as surgical services.

HCMC’s CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is an important indicator of overall hospital quality. As of late 2023, it holds a rating of three stars. This rating is based on a variety of factors, including patient experience, safety of care, and efficiency. While a three-star rating suggests that HCMC provides acceptable care, patients seeking highly specialized care or those requiring advanced treatments might consider exploring options with higher-rated facilities.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility at HCMC**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for any patient, especially those experiencing symptoms that may indicate breast cancer or its complications. Information on HCMC's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through platforms like Google. These wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Generally, the shorter the wait time, the better.

**Specialty Services and Cancer Care at HCMC**

HCMC offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, although the scope and sophistication of these services may be limited compared to larger, specialized cancer centers. Patients requiring complex surgical procedures or advanced treatments might be referred to facilities with more comprehensive cancer programs.

**Telehealth and Remote Access at HCMC**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. HCMC offers telehealth options for certain specialties. Telehealth can be valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and medication management, potentially reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Information on available telehealth services can be found on the HCMC website.

**Regional Options: Exploring Jackson, TN**

Approximately an hour's drive south of Paris, TN, lies Jackson, TN, a regional hub with more extensive healthcare resources. Jackson-Madison County General Hospital (also known as Jackson-Madison County General Hospital) is the major hospital in Jackson.

**Jackson-Madison County General Hospital: A Regional Resource**

Jackson-Madison County General Hospital, a larger facility than HCMC, offers a broader range of services, including a dedicated cancer center. This center provides comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and support services.

The CMS star rating for Jackson-Madison County General Hospital is another important metric to consider. As of late 2023, its rating is three stars. This indicates a similar level of overall quality as HCMC.

**Cancer Center Services at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital**

The cancer center at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. This means that patients have access to a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and nurses, all working together to develop and implement a personalized treatment plan.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital**

ER wait times at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital can vary. However, being a larger facility, it generally experiences higher patient volumes. It is advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER.

**Telehealth Services at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital**

Jackson-Madison County General Hospital also provides telehealth services. The availability of telehealth appointments can vary depending on the specialty and the specific needs of the patient.

**Venturing Further: Memphis and Nashville**

For specialized care and advanced treatments, residents near ZIP code 38255 might consider traveling to Memphis, TN, or Nashville, TN. These cities boast major medical centers with renowned cancer programs.

**Memphis: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Methodist Healthcare**

Memphis, approximately a two-hour drive west of Paris, is home to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a world-renowned center for pediatric cancer treatment. While St. Jude focuses on children, it offers valuable insights into cancer research and treatment. Methodist Healthcare, a large healthcare system in Memphis, offers a range of cancer services, including specialized breast cancer care.

**Nashville: Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center**

Nashville, a roughly two-hour drive east of Paris, is home to Vanderbilt University Medical Center and its Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, offering cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.

**Key Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

When choosing a healthcare provider for breast cancer, several factors are paramount:

* **Expertise and Experience:** Look for hospitals and physicians with significant experience in treating breast cancer.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure that the facility offers a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals.
* **Access to Advanced Treatments:** The hospital should offer access to the latest treatments, including clinical trials.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive cancer care includes support services such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of care and patient satisfaction.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.

**Making an Informed Decision**

For residents near ZIP code 38255, HCMC provides a local option for initial breast cancer care. However, for more specialized care, advanced treatments, or access to clinical trials, patients may need to consider facilities in Jackson, Memphis, or Nashville. Thorough research, consultation with primary care physicians, and consideration of individual needs are essential in making an informed decision. Patients should actively seek information, ask questions, and advocate for their own care. This review offers a starting point for understanding the available resources, but it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.