20373, Naval Anacost Annex, District of Columbia Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 20373, Naval Anacost Annex, District of Columbia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 20373**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Choosing the right medical facility is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 20373, analyzing their prostate cancer care offerings, including specialized centers, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and other critical factors. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape: ZIP Code 20373**

ZIP code 20373 is associated with the Naval Support Activity Bethesda, Maryland, and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. This location significantly influences the healthcare landscape, with a strong presence of military medical facilities and access to a diverse patient population.

**Walter Reed National Military Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) stands as a prominent healthcare provider in the area. As a flagship military hospital, it serves active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. WRNMMC is known for its comprehensive cancer care, including prostate cancer treatment.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Centers at WRNMMC**

WRNMMC likely houses a dedicated urology department with specialists in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. These specialists would be expected to provide a range of services, including:

* **Advanced Diagnostics:** Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DRE), and potentially advanced imaging techniques like multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Treatment Options:** WRNMMC likely offers a full spectrum of treatment options, including:
* **Surgery:** Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgical approach.
* **Radiation Therapy:** External beam radiation therapy (EBRT), including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), and potentially brachytherapy (internal radiation).
* **Hormone Therapy:** Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to slow cancer growth.
* **Chemotherapy:** For advanced or metastatic prostate cancer.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Metrics**

As a federal medical facility, WRNMMC is not subject to the same CMS star rating system as civilian hospitals. However, WRNMMC is held to rigorous standards of care and quality metrics by the Department of Defense. The hospital likely tracks and reports data on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cancer care, such as:

* **Survival Rates:** Five-year survival rates for prostate cancer patients.
* **Complication Rates:** Rates of complications following surgery or other treatments.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores based on surveys.
* **Adherence to Guidelines:** Compliance with national guidelines for prostate cancer care.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care**

ER wait times at WRNMMC can fluctuate depending on patient volume and the severity of cases. As a major medical center, WRNMMC's ER is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. However, patients with non-urgent conditions may experience longer wait times. It is advisable to contact the hospital directly or check online resources for real-time wait time updates.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. WRNMMC likely offers telehealth services, including:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Remote consultations with urologists and other specialists.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Virtual follow-up appointments for patients undergoing treatment.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Remote monitoring of patients' health parameters.
* **Patient Education:** Online resources and educational materials for patients.

**Other Hospitals in Proximity**

While WRNMMC is the primary focus, other hospitals near 20373 may offer prostate cancer care. These could include:

* **Suburban Hospital (Bethesda, MD):** This hospital may offer urology services and prostate cancer treatment. Its CMS star rating and specific prostate cancer care offerings should be investigated.
* **Sibley Memorial Hospital (Washington, DC):** Located within a reasonable distance, Sibley Memorial Hospital may have a urology department and cancer care services. Its CMS star rating and treatment options should be assessed.
* **MedStar Washington Hospital Center (Washington, DC):** This hospital could have a urology department and cancer care services. Its CMS star rating and treatment options should be assessed.

**Researching Other Hospitals**

When evaluating other hospitals, consider the following:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for star ratings and quality data.
* **Urology Department:** Investigate the size and expertise of the urology department.
* **Specialized Centers:** Look for dedicated cancer centers or prostate cancer programs.
* **Treatment Options:** Confirm the availability of advanced treatment options like robotic surgery and radiation therapy.
* **Physician Experience:** Research the experience and expertise of the urologists and radiation oncologists.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to gain insights into their experiences.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan.

**Key Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care involves several crucial factors:

* **Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the urologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists.
* **Technology:** Access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of a full range of treatment options to suit individual needs.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support services such as patient education, counseling, and support groups.
* **Patient Experience:** The overall patient experience, including communication, compassion, and access to care.

**Conclusion**

For individuals near ZIP code 20373, WRNMMC is a central point for prostate cancer care. However, a comprehensive evaluation should include exploring other hospitals in the area. Researching each hospital's specific offerings, CMS star ratings (where applicable), physician experience, and patient reviews is crucial. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that aligns with individual needs and preferences, offering the highest quality of care and support throughout the cancer journey. Always consult with a primary care physician or urologist to discuss your specific situation and make an informed decision.