01913, Amesbury, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01913, Amesbury, Massachusetts is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the 01913 Vicinity: A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 01913 (Beverly, MA), focusing on key factors relevant to lung cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This is not a ranking, but a comparative analysis to aid informed decision-making.

**Defining the Scope:**

The analysis considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Beverly, MA (01913). This includes hospitals in Boston, Salem, and surrounding communities. Data is drawn from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare databases. Note that data can change, and it's essential to verify information directly with the hospitals.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

Massachusetts boasts several highly-regarded hospitals. CMS star ratings, while not the sole indicator of quality, provide a general overview of hospital performance based on various quality measures.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston:** MGH, a flagship hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School, consistently receives high ratings. It boasts a 5-star CMS rating. MGH’s reputation in oncology is well-established, with a dedicated Cancer Center offering comprehensive services. Its lung cancer program includes advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. MGH is a major referral center, attracting complex cases.

**Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), Boston:** Another Harvard-affiliated hospital, BWH also holds a 5-star CMS rating. BWH's Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center provides integrated cancer care, including specialized lung cancer treatment. The hospital is known for its research focus and access to clinical trials, offering cutting-edge treatment options.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston:** BIDMC, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, has a 4-star CMS rating. Its comprehensive cancer center provides lung cancer care, including surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. BIDMC emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists collaborating to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington:** Lahey Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the region, has a 4-star CMS rating. Lahey’s comprehensive cancer institute offers lung cancer treatment, including surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Lahey is known for its integrated approach to care, with specialists working together to provide patient-centered treatment.

**North Shore Medical Center, Salem:** North Shore Medical Center, part of Mass General Brigham, has a 3-star CMS rating. It offers a cancer center with lung cancer services, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. North Shore Medical Center provides convenient access for residents in the North Shore area.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration for Timely Care:**

ER wait times can be an indicator of hospital efficiency and resource availability. While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, they can be relevant in emergency situations, such as complications arising from treatment. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate.

**MGH and BWH:** As major referral centers, these hospitals may experience higher ER volumes, potentially leading to longer wait times. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone is recommended.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC's ER wait times can vary. Checking current wait times before arriving is advisable.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center:** Lahey’s ER wait times are generally within the regional average, but it's wise to confirm current wait times.

**North Shore Medical Center:** North Shore Medical Center provides ER services, and wait times can vary. Checking current wait times is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Programs:**

The presence of specialized centers and programs is crucial for comprehensive lung cancer care.

**MGH:** MGH's Cancer Center is a leading center for lung cancer treatment. Its multidisciplinary team includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. They offer advanced diagnostics, including genetic testing and liquid biopsies. MGH is at the forefront of research and clinical trials.

**BWH:** The Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center provides comprehensive lung cancer care. The center emphasizes a team-based approach, with specialists collaborating to create personalized treatment plans. BWH offers access to cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC's comprehensive cancer center provides lung cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The center emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center:** Lahey's Cancer Institute offers comprehensive lung cancer care, including surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Lahey is known for its integrated approach to care, with specialists working together to provide patient-centered treatment.

**North Shore Medical Center:** North Shore Medical Center offers a cancer center with lung cancer services, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important for healthcare access, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring.

**MGH and BWH:** Both hospitals have robust telehealth programs, offering virtual appointments for various specialties, including oncology. They provide access to specialists regardless of location.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments for oncology patients.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center:** Lahey Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments for oncology patients.

**North Shore Medical Center:** North Shore Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments for oncology patients.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Access to clinical trials is a critical factor for lung cancer patients, providing access to innovative treatments.

**MGH and BWH:** Both hospitals are major research institutions and offer numerous clinical trials for lung cancer patients. They are actively involved in developing new therapies and treatment approaches.

**BIDMC:** BIDMC participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative therapies.

**Lahey Hospital & Medical Center:** Lahey Hospital participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative therapies.

**North Shore Medical Center:** North Shore Medical Center may offer access to clinical trials, potentially through partnerships with larger institutions.

**Additional Considerations:**

* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Researching patient reviews and experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Proximity:** Factor in the distance to the hospital and ease of access, especially for frequent appointments.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Hospitals near 01913 offer a range of options, from large, research-focused institutions to community hospitals. MGH and BWH, with their high CMS ratings and extensive resources, represent flagship options. BIDMC and Lahey Hospital offer strong programs. North Shore Medical Center provides convenient access for local residents. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their decision. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare providers, and a focus on personalized care are essential.