02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Southeastern Massachusetts: A Scorecard for 02769 Residents

Finding the best care for lung cancer is a critical undertaking, and for residents of the ZIP code 02769 (Seekonk, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas), several hospitals offer treatment options. This review delves into the landscape of lung cancer care, focusing on key metrics to help patients make informed decisions. We'll examine hospital quality, specialized services, accessibility, and emerging technologies, providing a fact-rich overview to guide your search.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The 02769 ZIP code sits in a region with a mix of community hospitals and larger, more specialized medical centers. Proximity is a significant factor in healthcare, influencing access to appointments, follow-up care, and support services. The following hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance and are likely to be considered by residents of this area.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** This hospital, a major teaching facility, is a significant player in the region. It is part of Lifespan, a large health system. Rhode Island Hospital is a Level I trauma center, meaning it can handle the most complex and severe cases. Regarding lung cancer, the hospital offers a comprehensive oncology program. They are likely to have a multidisciplinary team including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Rhode Island Hospital generally receives a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it provides a benchmark for comparison.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it's essential to check the latest information available on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Specialty Centers:** Rhode Island Hospital houses the Miriam Hospital, which is a cancer center. The Miriam Hospital is known for its cancer care, including lung cancer treatment.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important. Rhode Island Hospital, as a large health system, likely offers telehealth options for follow-up appointments, consultations, and potentially some aspects of cancer care. Check their website for specific telehealth services offered.

**Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center (Boston, MA):** While further afield, the Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center is a renowned cancer center, and patients from the 02769 area may consider it. This center offers cutting-edge treatments and access to clinical trials.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Brigham and Women's Hospital, a key component of this cancer center, typically receives a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality care.

**ER Wait Times:** Given the distance, ER wait times are less relevant for this facility. However, it's worth noting that this center is a destination for highly specialized care, and wait times for appointments with specialists may be longer.

**Specialty Centers:** This is a dedicated cancer center, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. They are at the forefront of cancer research and clinical trials.

**Telehealth:** Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center likely offers telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):** This community hospital is located relatively close to the 02769 area. It provides a range of medical services, including oncology.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital typically receives a 3-star rating from CMS.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor for this hospital. Check the latest information available on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Specialty Centers:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital has a cancer center and offers services for lung cancer patients.

**Telehealth:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital may offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, consultations, and potentially some aspects of cancer care. Check their website for specific telehealth services offered.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Big Names**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, other factors should be considered.

**Community Hospitals:** Community hospitals like Sturdy Memorial Hospital can offer convenient access to care, especially for initial diagnoses, routine follow-ups, and supportive services. They may collaborate with larger cancer centers for more specialized treatments.

**Oncologist Availability:** The availability of experienced medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is paramount. Research the credentials and experience of the physicians at each hospital. Check their board certifications and professional affiliations.

**Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary team. Ensure the hospital offers a coordinated approach involving pulmonologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, and support staff (social workers, dietitians, etc.).

**Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET/CT scans, bronchoscopy, and minimally invasive biopsy techniques, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.

**Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and potentially improve outcomes. Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials.

**Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, palliative care, and pain management.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Check the hospital's scores on patient satisfaction surveys, such as those available on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Specifics: Diving Deeper into the Metrics**

**ER Wait Times:** While ER wait times are not directly related to lung cancer treatment, they are a measure of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle emergencies. Shorter wait times can be a sign of better overall hospital management.

**Telehealth Stats:** Telehealth utilization has increased significantly in recent years. Hospitals should provide telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations.

**Specialty Centers:** Specialty centers offer specialized expertise and resources for specific types of cancer. They often have dedicated teams of specialists and access to advanced technologies.

**CMS Star Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality. While not the only factor to consider, they can be a useful starting point for comparison.

**Accessibility:** Consider the ease of access to the hospital, including parking, public transportation, and the availability of support services for patients with mobility issues.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan and that the services you need are covered.

**Financial Considerations:** Cancer treatment can be expensive. Inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs and payment options.

**The Importance of Research and Consultation**

This review provides a starting point for your research. It is essential to gather as much information as possible and consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare professionals.

**Key Questions to Ask:**

* What is the hospital's experience in treating lung cancer?
* What types of lung cancer treatments do they offer?
* Do they participate in clinical trials?
* What is the experience of the surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists?
* What support services are available?
* What are the hospital's patient satisfaction scores?
* What is the hospital's financial assistance policy?

**The Bottom Line:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, residents of the 02769 area can make informed choices and access the best possible care. Remember to prioritize your individual needs, preferences, and the recommendations of your healthcare providers.