01827, Dunstable, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01827, Dunstable, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 01827 (Lawrence, MA)

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. Proximity to home, the expertise of the medical team, and the availability of cutting-edge treatments are all vital considerations. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Lawrence, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01827), providing a fact-based overview to aid in your research.

**The Landscape: Major Players and Key Considerations**

The healthcare landscape near Lawrence is dominated by several major hospital systems, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. When evaluating hospitals, consider factors like:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), offer a general indicator of hospital quality, based on patient experience, safety, and efficiency.
* **Specialty Centers:** Dedicated lung cancer centers often house multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to lung cancer care, shorter ER wait times can be crucial in emergencies.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of advanced treatments like minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials is essential.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA):** Located approximately 30 miles from Lawrence, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is a nationally renowned institution. MGH consistently receives high ratings and is a flagship hospital within the Mass General Brigham system. MGH is a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical expertise, and cutting-edge clinical trials. MGH’s Thoracic Surgery program is highly regarded, and they are known for their expertise in minimally invasive techniques. They also have a robust research program, contributing to advancements in lung cancer treatment. MGH has a 5-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable, and it is advisable to check current wait times on their website or through third-party apps. Telehealth services are available for certain appointments.

**Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA):** Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, affiliated with MGH, is a leading cancer center specializing in all types of cancer, including lung cancer. Dana-Farber is known for its research-driven approach and offers access to the latest clinical trials and innovative therapies. Dana-Farber's multidisciplinary lung cancer team provides personalized treatment plans. They are located in Boston, approximately 30 miles from Lawrence. Dana-Farber does not have a CMS star rating as it is a specialty cancer center. ER wait times are generally shorter at Dana-Farber's Urgent Care Center than at a full-service ER. Telehealth is available for certain appointments.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Boston, MA):** Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), also located in Boston, is another major hospital within the Mass General Brigham system. BIDMC offers a comprehensive lung cancer program with a focus on multidisciplinary care. BIDMC has a 4-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable; check online for current estimates. Telehealth services are available.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center (Burlington, MA):** Located approximately 15 miles from Lawrence, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center is a convenient option for residents in the area. Lahey has a dedicated Thoracic Oncology Program, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options. Lahey is known for its expertise in robotic surgery for lung cancer. Lahey has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable, and it's recommended to check real-time wait times online. Telehealth services are available.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

**Lowell General Hospital (Lowell, MA):** Located approximately 10 miles from Lawrence, Lowell General Hospital is a community hospital with a cancer center that provides lung cancer care. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Lowell General Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times are generally shorter than at larger Boston hospitals. Telehealth services may be available.

**Holy Family Hospital (Methuen, MA):** Located in Methuen, MA, a short drive from Lawrence, Holy Family Hospital provides cancer care services, including treatment for lung cancer. They offer a range of services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Holy Family Hospital is part of Steward Health Care. Holy Family Hospital has a 2-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable; check online for current estimates. Telehealth services may be available.

**Comparing Key Metrics**

| Hospital | CMS Star Rating | Approximate Distance from Lawrence (miles) | Key Strengths | ER Wait Times (approximate) | Telehealth |
| :------------------------------------- | :-------------- | :------------------------------------------ | :----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | :-------------------------- | :--------- |
| Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) | 5 | 30 | Comprehensive cancer center, advanced treatments, clinical trials, renowned thoracic surgery program | Variable | Yes |
| Dana-Farber Cancer Institute | N/A | 30 | Specialized cancer center, research-driven approach, access to clinical trials, personalized treatment plans | Shorter (Urgent Care) | Yes |
| Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center | 4 | 30 | Comprehensive lung cancer program, multidisciplinary care | Variable | Yes |
| Lahey Hospital & Medical Center | 3 | 15 | Dedicated Thoracic Oncology Program, expertise in robotic surgery | Variable | Yes |
| Lowell General Hospital | 3 | 10 | Community hospital, cancer center offering a range of treatment options | Shorter | May be |
| Holy Family Hospital | 2 | 5 | Cancer care services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. | Variable | May be |

**Important Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer care is most effective when delivered by a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff. Ensure the hospital offers a coordinated multidisciplinary approach.
* **Staging and Diagnostics:** Accurate staging is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan. Look for hospitals that offer advanced diagnostic imaging, including PET/CT scans, and minimally invasive biopsy techniques.
* **Treatment Options:** The best hospitals offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Lung cancer patients often benefit from support services, such as counseling, support groups, and palliative care. Check for these services at the hospitals you are considering.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's patient-centered approach and the quality of care provided.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion**

The hospitals near Lawrence, MA, offer a range of options for lung cancer care, from community hospitals to nationally recognized cancer centers. MGH and Dana-Farber, located in Boston, provide access to the most advanced treatments and clinical trials. Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington offers a convenient option with a strong thoracic oncology program. Lowell General Hospital and Holy Family Hospital provide care closer to home. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Thorough research, consultation with your primary care physician, and discussions with the hospitals' lung cancer specialists are essential to making an informed decision.