01267, Williamstown, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01267, Williamstown, Massachusetts is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Berkshires: A Hospital Scorecard Near ZIP Code 01267

Finding the best care for lung cancer is a critical undertaking. For residents of the Berkshires, specifically near ZIP code 01267 (Stockbridge, MA), several hospitals offer varying levels of lung cancer services. This review analyzes the key players, focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes, including hospital quality ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth availability.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Berkshires, while offering a serene environment, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access. The region is largely rural, necessitating careful consideration of travel distances and the availability of specialized services. The following hospitals are within a reasonable radius of 01267 and are assessed based on their lung cancer care capabilities.

**Berkshire Medical Center (BMC), Pittsfield, MA**

Berkshire Medical Center (BMC) in Pittsfield, MA, is the largest hospital in the region and a primary referral center for residents of the Berkshires. BMC is a teaching hospital and a regional leader in various medical specialties.

* **CMS Star Rating:** BMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on factors such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's essential to delve deeper into specific service lines.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** BMC houses a comprehensive cancer center, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, with specialists in pulmonology, thoracic surgery, and oncology working collaboratively.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** BMC is equipped with advanced imaging technologies, including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy, crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** BMC provides a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. They are affiliated with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, providing access to advanced cancer care and clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at BMC can vary. According to recent data, the average ER wait time is around 30-60 minutes. However, wait times can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of the case.
* **Telehealth:** BMC has expanded its telehealth services in recent years, offering virtual consultations for certain specialties, including oncology. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations, reducing the need for in-person visits.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at BMC are generally in line with national averages. Patient feedback is available on the hospital's website, and platforms like Healthgrades and US News & World Report.

**Additional Considerations for BMC:**

* **Travel Distance:** BMC is located in Pittsfield, approximately a 20-30 minute drive from Stockbridge (01267).
* **Clinical Trials:** The Dana-Farber affiliation provides access to clinical trials, which can offer cutting-edge treatment options for some patients.
* **Support Services:** BMC offers a range of support services for cancer patients, including support groups, counseling, and nutritional guidance.

**Fairview Hospital, Great Barrington, MA**

Fairview Hospital, located in Great Barrington, MA, is a smaller community hospital within the Berkshire Health Systems network. While it may not offer the same breadth of services as BMC, it plays a crucial role in providing local healthcare access.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Fairview Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a higher overall quality compared to BMC.
* **Lung Cancer Services:** Fairview Hospital offers diagnostic services and some supportive care for lung cancer patients. However, they primarily rely on referrals to BMC for specialized treatment, including surgery and advanced therapies.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Fairview Hospital provides imaging services, including CT scans, for initial diagnosis.
* **Treatment Options:** Treatment is typically provided at BMC.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Fairview Hospital are generally shorter than at BMC, often under 30 minutes.
* **Telehealth:** Fairview Hospital offers telehealth services, providing virtual consultations with specialists.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores at Fairview Hospital are generally positive, reflecting a focus on patient-centered care.

**Additional Considerations for Fairview Hospital:**

* **Travel Distance:** Fairview Hospital is located in Great Barrington, approximately a 10-15 minute drive from Stockbridge (01267).
* **Convenience:** Fairview offers convenient access to emergency care and initial diagnostic services.
* **Referral Network:** Fairview Hospital has a strong referral network with BMC, ensuring patients receive the necessary specialized care.

**Other Hospitals to Consider (Outside of Immediate Proximity)**

While BMC and Fairview are the primary hospitals serving the 01267 area, patients may also consider hospitals further afield, depending on their specific needs and preferences.

* **Albany Medical Center (Albany, NY):** Located approximately 1.5 hours west of Stockbridge, Albany Medical Center is a major academic medical center offering comprehensive cancer care, including advanced lung cancer treatments and clinical trials.
* **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):** Located approximately 2 hours north of Stockbridge, Dartmouth Hitchcock is a high-performing hospital with a dedicated cancer center.

**Key Factors for Lung Cancer Care**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, several factors are paramount:

* **Expertise:** Look for hospitals with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists specializing in lung cancer.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A multidisciplinary team approach, where specialists from different fields collaborate on a patient's care, is crucial for optimal outcomes.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as PET scans, robotic surgery, and targeted therapies, is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and improve outcomes.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services, including counseling, support groups, and nutritional guidance, are vital for patients' well-being.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider patient satisfaction scores and reviews to gauge the hospital's commitment to patient-centered care.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. Residents near 01267 should carefully consider their individual needs, the severity of their condition, and their preferences for care.

* **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and referrals.
* **Seek Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek second opinions from other specialists to ensure you are receiving the best possible care.
* **Research and Compare:** Thoroughly research hospitals, compare their services, and consider their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth options.
* **Consider Travel:** Factor in travel distances and the convenience of accessing care.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't be afraid to ask questions about treatment options, clinical trials, and support services.

**Conclusion**

For residents near 01267, Berkshire Medical Center (BMC) in Pittsfield is the primary hub for comprehensive lung cancer care, offering a multidisciplinary approach and access to advanced treatments. Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington provides convenient access to diagnostic services and a strong referral network to BMC. Patients should also consider the options of Albany Medical Center and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, individuals can make informed decisions and access the best possible care for lung cancer. Remember that this review is a snapshot in time, and hospital services and ratings can change. It is always best to consult with your physician and conduct your own research to make the most informed choice.