04267, North Waterford, Maine Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 04267, North Waterford, Maine is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Look at Hospitals Near ZIP Code 04267

Finding the right healthcare for prostate cancer requires careful consideration. This review examines hospitals near the 04267 ZIP code, focusing on their prostate cancer care capabilities, using available data on quality, access, and specialized services. This information is intended to provide a starting point for patients seeking treatment, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 04267 ZIP code encompasses the town of Sabattus, Maine, and is located in Androscoggin County. This region’s healthcare landscape is primarily served by a network of hospitals and medical centers, with the closest major facilities concentrated in Lewiston and Auburn. Access to specialized prostate cancer care, including advanced diagnostics and treatment options, may require travel to larger medical centers further afield.

**Central Maine Medical Center (Lewiston):**

Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston is a prominent healthcare provider in the region. CMMC is a large, acute-care facility offering a range of medical services, including urology and oncology. As of the latest data available, CMMC has a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

CMMC’s urology department provides diagnostic services, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DRE), and imaging studies such as MRI and ultrasound. They offer various treatment options, including surgery (both open and minimally invasive techniques like robotic-assisted prostatectomy), radiation therapy (external beam radiation and brachytherapy), and hormonal therapy.

While specific data on prostate cancer outcomes at CMMC is not always readily available, the hospital participates in national quality reporting programs, which allows them to benchmark their performance against other hospitals. CMMC's emergency room wait times fluctuate, but the hospital strives to provide timely care. Patients can access the latest wait times on their website or through third-party platforms.

**St. Mary's Regional Medical Center (Lewiston):**

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center, also located in Lewiston, is another key healthcare provider in the area. St. Mary's is a non-profit, faith-based hospital. As of the latest data, St. Mary's has a **3-star rating** from CMS.

St. Mary's offers comprehensive urological services, including prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The hospital's urology department provides similar services to CMMC, including surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

St. Mary's has invested in advanced technology and equipment to provide state-of-the-art care. The hospital's focus on patient-centered care and its commitment to quality are important factors for patients to consider. Emergency room wait times at St. Mary's also vary, and patients can find the most up-to-date information on their website.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Care:**

While both CMMC and St. Mary's offer comprehensive prostate cancer care, patients may benefit from seeking specialized services at larger facilities. These facilities often have access to cutting-edge technology, clinical trials, and a higher concentration of specialists.

**Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston, MA):**

While located outside the immediate vicinity of 04267, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, is a nationally recognized cancer center that is accessible to patients in Maine. Dana-Farber is consistently ranked among the top cancer hospitals in the United States. They offer a full spectrum of prostate cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and clinical trials.

Dana-Farber's multidisciplinary approach to care ensures that patients receive comprehensive and individualized treatment plans. Their team of specialists includes urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care providers.

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

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), also in Boston, is another highly-regarded institution for cancer care. MGH is a teaching hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School. MGH offers a comprehensive prostate cancer program, including advanced imaging, surgical options (including robotic-assisted surgery), radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

MGH's prostate cancer specialists are at the forefront of research and innovation, offering patients access to the latest treatment options and clinical trials. They have a strong focus on personalized medicine, tailoring treatment plans to each patient's individual needs.

**Telehealth and Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. Both CMMC and St. Mary's offer telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient convenience. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when scheduling appointments or seeking care.

**Considerations for Patients:**

When choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care, patients should consider several factors:

* **Experience and Expertise:** Look for hospitals with experienced urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, and treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery and advanced radiation therapy techniques.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Seek a hospital that offers a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving a team of specialists who collaborate to develop an individualized treatment plan.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider the hospital's patient satisfaction scores and reviews.
* **Access and Convenience:** Factor in the hospital's location, travel time, and availability of telehealth services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Clinical Trials:** Inquire about the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatment options.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near the 04267 ZIP code, Central Maine Medical Center and St. Mary's Regional Medical Center in Lewiston provide accessible and comprehensive prostate cancer care. However, patients seeking highly specialized care or access to cutting-edge treatments may want to consider the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Patients should carefully research their options, consider their individual needs, and consult with their primary care physician to determine the best course of action. Remember to gather all relevant information, ask questions, and seek a second opinion if needed.