04238, Hebron, Maine Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 04238, Hebron, Maine is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Lewiston, Maine: A Scorecard for 04238

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a complex journey, demanding not only expert medical care but also accessibility and patient support. For residents of Lewiston, Maine (ZIP code 04238), several hospitals offer specialized services, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-rich overview to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC): The Local Hub**

Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC), located in Lewiston, is the closest major hospital for residents of 04238. It's a 250-bed facility and a vital resource for the community. While it's not a designated Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), CMMC has a dedicated oncology department offering a range of treatments.

CMMC's lung cancer program includes surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy and targeted therapies), and radiation oncology. They also provide support services like patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care. While specific data on lung cancer survival rates is not readily available, CMMC's overall cancer program outcomes can be found on their website and through the Maine Cancer Registry.

CMMC's emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. According to recent data, the average ER wait time at CMMC is approximately 1-2 hours. This is a crucial consideration for patients experiencing respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms. CMMC has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, and CMMC offers telehealth consultations for certain oncology appointments. This can be a significant advantage for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. However, the availability of telehealth for specific lung cancer-related services varies, and patients should inquire directly with the oncology department.

**St. Mary's Regional Medical Center: A Neighboring Option**

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center, also in Lewiston, provides another option for lung cancer care. This hospital also offers a comprehensive cancer program, including surgical, medical, and radiation oncology services. Like CMMC, St. Mary's is not an NCI-designated cancer center.

St. Mary's boasts a dedicated oncology unit and a multidisciplinary team approach to patient care. They emphasize patient education and support, offering resources to help patients and their families cope with the emotional and practical challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

ER wait times at St. Mary's are comparable to CMMC, typically ranging from 1 to 2 hours. St. Mary's has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. Telehealth services are available, but the specifics of lung cancer-related appointments should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Maine Medical Center (MMC): The Flagship Hospital in Portland**

For patients seeking access to a larger, more specialized facility, Maine Medical Center (MMC) in Portland, approximately 35 miles from Lewiston, is a significant option. MMC is the largest hospital in Maine and a major referral center. It is a high-performing hospital in several specialties.

MMC's cancer program is a comprehensive one, and it is a member of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's Network. MMC’s cancer program offers advanced diagnostic capabilities, including state-of-the-art imaging technology and genomic testing. They offer a full range of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.

MMC's thoracic surgery program is particularly strong, with experienced surgeons specializing in minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). The hospital also has a dedicated lung cancer screening program.

MMC's ER wait times are generally longer than those at CMMC and St. Mary's, averaging between 2 and 3 hours. MMC has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. While this is an improvement over the Lewiston hospitals, it is important to be aware of potential delays.

MMC has a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This is a major advantage for patients who live in the Lewiston area, as it reduces the need for frequent travel to Portland.

**Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: A Boston Option**

For patients seeking the highest level of specialization and access to cutting-edge research, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, is a premier option. This is a NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a global leader in cancer care. Boston is approximately 130 miles from Lewiston, making it a more significant travel commitment.

Dana-Farber offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, innovative chemotherapy regimens, and access to clinical trials. They have a dedicated thoracic oncology program staffed by world-renowned experts.

While Dana-Farber is an excellent option, it's important to consider the practical aspects. Travel time and costs can be significant. Patients will also need to coordinate their care with their local providers, and the hospital’s ER wait times are not relevant to this review.

Dana-Farber has a strong telehealth program, but its availability for patients outside of Massachusetts should be confirmed.

**Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC): Bangor’s Cancer Center**

Eastern Maine Medical Center (EMMC) in Bangor, approximately 100 miles from Lewiston, is another option. EMMC offers a full range of cancer services, including surgical, medical, and radiation oncology. EMMC is not an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.

EMMC has a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team approach. They offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including access to clinical trials.

ER wait times at EMMC are typically between 1 and 2 hours. EMMC has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. Telehealth services are available, and patients should inquire about lung cancer-related appointments.

**Key Considerations for Patients in 04238**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer care, patients in the 04238 area should consider several factors:

* **Proximity:** CMMC and St. Mary's are the closest options, offering convenience and easier access.
* **Specialization:** MMC and Dana-Farber offer more specialized services and access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that your insurance plan covers treatment at the chosen hospital.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the physicians and surgeons.
* **Patient Support:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Determine the availability of telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and other needs.
* **ER Wait Times:** Be aware of potential ER wait times, especially if you have urgent symptoms.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** Use CMS star ratings as a general indicator of hospital quality, but remember that these ratings are just one factor to consider.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Lewiston, Maine (04238), the choice of a hospital for lung cancer care depends on individual needs and preferences. CMMC and St. Mary's offer convenient local options, while MMC and Dana-Farber provide access to more specialized services. Careful consideration of the factors outlined above, including ER wait times, telehealth options, and physician expertise, will help patients and their families make the best possible decision for their care.