02739, Mattapoisett, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02739, Mattapoisett, Massachusetts is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Fall River, MA (ZIP Code 02739)**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to top-tier medical care. This review examines hospitals near Fall River, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02739), focusing on their prostate cancer services, overall quality, and accessibility. The information presented is based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**Defining the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Credentials**

The immediate vicinity of Fall River is served by several hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in prostate cancer care. These hospitals are assessed based on their overall performance, specialized services, and patient experience. The focus is on facilities that offer a comprehensive approach, from early detection to advanced treatment options.

**Saint Anne's Hospital, Fall River, MA**

Saint Anne's Hospital, located directly in Fall River, is a key healthcare provider for the local community. It is part of the Steward Health Care System. While its CMS star rating fluctuates, it generally hovers around a 3-star rating. This rating reflects its overall performance across various quality measures. Patients should note that these ratings are a snapshot and should be considered alongside other factors.

Saint Anne's offers urology services, which are crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis and management. They have a team of urologists who are experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. However, the specifics of their prostate cancer program, such as the availability of advanced surgical techniques (e.g., robotic-assisted surgery), the number of prostate cancer patients treated annually, and the availability of clinical trials, would require direct inquiry.

**Charlton Memorial Hospital, Fall River, MA**

Charlton Memorial Hospital, also in Fall River, is another major healthcare provider in the area. It is part of the Southcoast Health System. Similar to Saint Anne's, its CMS star rating is typically around 3 stars.

Charlton Memorial has a urology department that provides care for various urological conditions, including prostate cancer. Patients should inquire about the specific services offered, including diagnostic capabilities (e.g., MRI fusion biopsies), treatment options (e.g., surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy), and support services (e.g., patient education, support groups).

**Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI (Approximately 20 miles from Fall River)**

Rhode Island Hospital, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a flagship hospital in the region. It is part of Lifespan Health System. It consistently receives a 4-star or 5-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to the local hospitals in Fall River.

Rhode Island Hospital has a well-regarded urology department and a dedicated cancer center. It offers a comprehensive prostate cancer program, including advanced diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgical options (e.g., robotic-assisted prostatectomy), radiation therapy (e.g., external beam radiation, brachytherapy), and access to clinical trials. Its proximity to Fall River makes it a viable option for patients seeking more specialized care.

**Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI (Approximately 20 miles from Fall River)**

The Miriam Hospital, also in Providence, is another Lifespan facility. It often receives a 4- or 5-star CMS rating. This hospital is known for its focus on patient-centered care.

The Miriam Hospital’s urology department provides a range of services for prostate cancer. Patients can expect access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Like Rhode Island Hospital, its location in Providence makes it accessible to Fall River residents.

**Assessing Key Performance Indicators: ER Wait Times and Telehealth**

ER wait times are a critical factor in assessing hospital accessibility, especially in urgent situations. Publicly available data, such as that provided by CMS, often includes average ER wait times. Patients should research these wait times for each hospital to understand potential delays in receiving care. Keep in mind that wait times can fluctuate.

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Hospitals near Fall River are likely to offer telehealth options, especially given the trend toward virtual care. Patients should inquire about telehealth availability for urology appointments, cancer consultations, and supportive care services.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Treatment Options**

The presence of specialty centers, such as comprehensive cancer centers, is crucial for prostate cancer care. These centers often offer multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. They also provide access to advanced treatment options, such as robotic surgery, advanced radiation therapies (e.g., IMRT, SBRT), and clinical trials.

**Robotic Surgery:** Robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that offers benefits such as reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. Patients should inquire about the availability of robotic surgery at each hospital.

**Radiation Therapy:** Advanced radiation therapies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), offer more precise targeting of the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Patients should ask about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare. Patients should research hospital ratings and reviews, focusing on feedback related to urology and cancer care. Factors to consider include communication with healthcare providers, the availability of support services, and the overall patient experience.

Support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources, play a vital role in helping patients navigate the complexities of prostate cancer. Patients should inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.

**Making an Informed Decision: Factors to Consider**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care involves several factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** Provides a general overview of overall quality.
* **Specialized Services:** Availability of advanced diagnostic tools, surgical options, and radiation therapies.
* **Physician Expertise:** Experience and qualifications of urologists and other specialists.
* **Patient Experience:** Hospital ratings and reviews, patient feedback.
* **Accessibility:** ER wait times, telehealth options, and proximity to Fall River.
* **Support Services:** Availability of patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Patients near Fall River have access to several hospitals for prostate cancer care. While local hospitals like Saint Anne's and Charlton Memorial provide essential services, Rhode Island Hospital and Miriam Hospital in Providence offer more specialized care and higher overall quality ratings. Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering their specific needs and preferences. Consulting with a primary care physician or urologist is crucial for personalized recommendations and guidance. By considering all the factors, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care for their prostate cancer.