08555, Roosevelt, New Jersey Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 08555, Roosevelt, New Jersey is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care in the Princeton, NJ Area: A Scorecard**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. This review offers a fact-based assessment of hospitals near Princeton, NJ (ZIP code 08555), focusing on key factors relevant to prostate cancer care. We’ll examine hospital quality metrics, specialized services, and accessibility to help you make informed decisions. Remember, this is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**Hospital Quality and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general measure of quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro (UMCPP)**

UMCPP, located within the 08555 ZIP code, is a flagship hospital in the area. It is part of Penn Medicine. This hospital boasts a four-star CMS rating. This rating suggests a solid performance across various quality indicators. UMCPP’s urology department provides comprehensive services, including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for prostate cancer. They offer robotic-assisted surgery, a minimally invasive technique often preferred for prostatectomies (surgical removal of the prostate). UMCPP also has a robust radiation oncology department, offering various radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

**Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell**

Located a short distance from Princeton, Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell, is another hospital to consider. It currently holds a three-star CMS rating. While the rating is lower than UMCPP, it still provides access to medical services. Capital Health also offers urology services and a cancer center.

**Saint Francis Medical Center**

Located in Trenton, NJ, Saint Francis Medical Center, is another option for patients near the 08555 ZIP code. Saint Francis has a three-star CMS rating.

**ER Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times can be an important consideration, particularly if you experience complications during treatment. While these times fluctuate, understanding the average wait times at local hospitals can be helpful. Data on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites or through platforms like ProPublica.

UMCPP generally has ER wait times that are in line with or slightly better than the national average. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell's ER wait times can vary, so checking current wait times before visiting is advisable. Saint Francis Medical Center's ER wait times are also available.

**Specialty Centers and Prostate Cancer Expertise**

Beyond general hospital ratings, specific centers and expertise in prostate cancer care are crucial.

UMCPP has a dedicated cancer center, the Penn Medicine Princeton Cancer Center, which integrates various specialists, including urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. This multidisciplinary approach is considered best practice for prostate cancer treatment. The center offers advanced diagnostic tools, including MRI and PET scans, to accurately stage the cancer.

Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell also has a cancer center that offers urology services and treatment options.

Saint Francis Medical Center's cancer center provides comprehensive cancer care, including urology services.

**Robotic Surgery Availability**

Robotic-assisted surgery has become a standard treatment option for prostate cancer, offering benefits like smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery times.

UMCPP is a leader in robotic surgery, with experienced surgeons performing a high volume of robotic prostatectomies. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell also offers robotic surgery options. Saint Francis Medical Center also offers robotic surgery.

**Radiation Oncology Services**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for prostate cancer. Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques is essential.

UMCPP's radiation oncology department provides a comprehensive range of radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and brachytherapy. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell also offers radiation therapy services. Saint Francis Medical Center offers radiation therapy as well.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

UMCPP has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring for patients. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell and Saint Francis Medical Center also offer telehealth services.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in prostate cancer care.

UMCPP is affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, which conducts significant research in oncology. This affiliation often provides patients with access to clinical trials. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell and Saint Francis Medical Center may also offer clinical trials.

**Support Services**

Dealing with a prostate cancer diagnosis requires emotional and practical support. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services.

UMCPP provides a range of support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and counseling. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell and Saint Francis Medical Center also offer support services.

**Accessibility and Convenience**

Consider the hospital's location, parking availability, and ease of access.

UMCPP is conveniently located within the 08555 ZIP code, making it easily accessible for residents. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell is a short drive away. Saint Francis Medical Center is located in Trenton, NJ.

**Cost and Insurance**

Understanding the cost of care and whether the hospital accepts your insurance is critical.

Check with each hospital's billing department to understand the costs associated with prostate cancer treatment. Verify that the hospital is in your insurance network.

**Physician Expertise**

The experience and expertise of the urologist and other specialists are paramount.

Research the credentials and experience of the physicians at each hospital. Look for board-certified urologists and radiation oncologists with specific expertise in prostate cancer. Read patient reviews and consider second opinions.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical factor.

Read patient reviews on websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's website. These reviews can provide insights into the quality of care, communication with doctors, and overall patient satisfaction.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision. UMCPP, with its four-star CMS rating, comprehensive cancer center, and robotic surgery capabilities, stands out as a leading option in the Princeton area. Capital Health Medical Center – Hopewell and Saint Francis Medical Center offer additional options, each with its own strengths. Carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, including hospital quality, specialty services, accessibility, and patient experience, to make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Remember to consult with your physician to develop a personalized treatment plan.