02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Harwich, MA (ZIP Code 02637): A Detailed Hospital Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality medical care is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near Harwich, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02637), providing a fact-rich overview of their lung cancer services, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Cape Cod Healthcare System: A Local Hub**

Cape Cod Healthcare (CCHC) is the primary healthcare provider serving the Cape Cod region. It operates two hospitals: Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis and Falmouth Hospital. Both are important considerations for residents of Harwich.

**Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis:**

Cape Cod Hospital (CCH) is the larger of the two, a 279-bed facility. It is the flagship hospital of the CCHC system. As of November 2023, Cape Cod Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. CMS star ratings are a general indicator and should be considered alongside other data.

CCH offers a comprehensive cancer program, including services for lung cancer. They have a dedicated oncology department with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology for diagnosis and staging, including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy.

Regarding ER wait times, Cape Cod Hospital’s average wait time can fluctuate. Publicly available data often shows wait times around the national average, but it's crucial to check real-time data through sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms. The hospital's website usually provides the most current information.

CCHC has been expanding its telehealth offerings. Telehealth consultations with oncologists and other specialists are available, providing convenient access to care for patients, especially those in geographically dispersed areas. The specifics of telehealth availability (e.g., types of appointments, scheduling) can be found on the CCHC website.

**Falmouth Hospital:**

Falmouth Hospital, also part of CCHC, is a smaller hospital with 95 beds. While it may not offer the same breadth of services as Cape Cod Hospital, it provides essential care and can be a convenient option for residents of Harwich. As of November 2023, Falmouth Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Cape Cod Hospital.

Falmouth Hospital provides cancer care, including chemotherapy and supportive services. Patients often receive diagnostic imaging and initial treatment here, but more complex cases may be referred to Cape Cod Hospital.

ER wait times at Falmouth Hospital are generally shorter than those at Cape Cod Hospital, although this can vary. Checking the hospital’s website or a third-party source for the most up-to-date information is recommended.

Telehealth services are also available at Falmouth Hospital, though the scope may be more limited than at Cape Cod Hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Programs within CCHC:**

CCHC has a Cancer Center that coordinates care for patients across the system. This center offers multidisciplinary care, bringing together specialists from various fields to create individualized treatment plans. The Cancer Center also provides support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and educational resources.

**Beyond Cape Cod Healthcare: Considerations for Advanced Care**

While CCHC is the primary provider for residents of Harwich, patients with complex lung cancer cases may need to consider hospitals further afield, particularly those with specialized cancer centers.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Boston:**

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston is a nationally recognized leader in cancer care. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School and consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States. MGH is approximately a two-hour drive from Harwich.

MGH’s Cancer Center offers a world-class lung cancer program. They have a dedicated thoracic oncology center with a team of highly specialized physicians, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pulmonologists. They are at the forefront of research and clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

MGH has a 5-star CMS rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. However, it's important to remember that CMS ratings are just one factor to consider.

ER wait times at MGH can be longer than at local hospitals, given its high patient volume. Checking real-time wait times on the MGH website or through third-party apps is essential.

MGH has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from Boston. They offer a variety of telehealth options, including video visits and remote monitoring.

**Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston:**

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, also located in Boston, is another leading cancer center. It is a separate entity from MGH but often collaborates with them. Dana-Farber is approximately a two-hour drive from Harwich.

Dana-Farber specializes in cancer treatment and research. Their lung cancer program is highly regarded, offering comprehensive care and access to clinical trials. They have a team of expert physicians and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Dana-Farber does not have a CMS star rating because it is a specialty cancer center. However, its reputation for excellence is well-established.

ER wait times at Dana-Farber are generally shorter than at MGH, as it is a specialty center and has a smaller ER.

Dana-Farber has a strong telehealth program, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston:**

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) is another Boston hospital to consider. It is approximately a two-hour drive from Harwich.

BIDMC has a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer services. Their thoracic oncology program offers advanced treatments and access to clinical trials.

BIDMC has a 3-star CMS rating.

ER wait times at BIDMC can vary. It's best to check their website for real-time information.

BIDMC offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital:**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for lung cancer care.

* **Stage of Cancer:** Patients with early-stage lung cancer may be well-served by local hospitals like Cape Cod Hospital or Falmouth Hospital. Patients with more advanced or complex cases may benefit from the specialized expertise and resources of hospitals like MGH, Dana-Farber, or BIDMC.
* **Access to Specialists:** Ensure the hospital has the necessary specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pulmonologists.
* **Treatment Options:** Consider the availability of different treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
* **Technology:** Look for hospitals with advanced imaging technology and other diagnostic and treatment tools.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about the availability of support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and counseling.
* **Telehealth:** Assess the availability and convenience of telehealth services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Read patient reviews and check hospital ratings from reputable sources, such as U.S. News & World Report.
* **Travel Distance:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of travel.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Harwich, MA (ZIP code 02637), Cape Cod Healthcare provides the primary source of care. Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital offer a range of services, including cancer care. For more complex cases, or for access to advanced treatments and clinical trials, hospitals in Boston, such as MGH, Dana-Farber, and BIDMC, should be considered. Patients should carefully weigh their individual needs and preferences when making their decision. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or oncologist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Always verify information directly with the hospitals as details can change.