08733, Lakehurst, New Jersey Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 08733, Lakehurst, New Jersey is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 08733

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital is a crucial first step. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 08733 (Toms River, New Jersey) to provide a fact-rich overview of their prostate cancer care capabilities, focusing on factors relevant to patients: quality ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape around Toms River is dominated by a few key players. Proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia opens up additional options, but local hospitals often serve as the primary points of care. This review will prioritize institutions within a reasonable driving distance, considering both accessibility and the breadth of services offered.

**Community Medical Center (Toms River, NJ):**

Community Medical Center (CMC), part of RWJBarnabas Health, is a central figure in the Toms River healthcare ecosystem. As a large, acute-care hospital, CMC offers comprehensive medical services, including oncology and urology departments. CMS data shows that CMC has a 3-star rating. While this rating is not the highest, it reflects a complex assessment of various aspects of care, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. It's important to note that CMS star ratings are a general indicator and should be considered alongside other factors.

CMC's oncology department provides a range of treatment options for prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. They have a dedicated team of urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology for diagnosis and staging, including MRI and PET scans.

Regarding ER wait times, data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and third-party sources can provide insights. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data often indicates average wait times for similar hospitals. Patients should check the hospital’s website or third-party sources like ProPublica or Healthgrades for the most current information.

Telehealth services are increasingly important. CMC, as part of a large health system, likely offers some telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Patients should inquire directly about the availability of virtual appointments with their urologist or oncologist.

**Jersey Shore University Medical Center (Neptune, NJ):**

Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC), also part of RWJBarnabas Health, is located approximately 20-30 minutes north of Toms River. JSUMC is a flagship hospital within the system and often serves as a referral center for more complex cases. JSUMC has a 3-star rating from CMS.

JSUMC boasts a comprehensive cancer center, the David & Pat Tepper Family Cancer Pavilion, which is a significant advantage for prostate cancer patients. This specialized center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to collaborate on patient care. The pavilion is equipped with advanced radiation therapy technologies, including advanced linear accelerators.

The hospital’s urology department is staffed by experienced specialists who perform a wide range of procedures, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique that often leads to faster recovery times. JSUMC also provides access to clinical trials, which can offer patients cutting-edge treatment options.

ER wait times at JSUMC, like at CMC, fluctuate. Patients should consult the hospital's website or third-party sources for the most up-to-date information. Telehealth services are likely available, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**Other Considerations:**

While the above hospitals are the primary options for residents near 08733, patients may consider traveling further for specialized care.

**Philadelphia Area Hospitals:**

The Philadelphia area, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Toms River, offers access to some of the nation's leading cancer centers.

**University of Pennsylvania Health System:**

The University of Pennsylvania's Abramson Cancer Center is a nationally recognized cancer center. The Abramson Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, indicating a high level of expertise in cancer research and treatment. They provide a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

**Jefferson Health:**

Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, another major Philadelphia healthcare provider, also has a strong oncology program. Jefferson offers a wide range of prostate cancer treatments and access to clinical trials.

**New York City Hospitals:**

New York City, approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive, is another option for prostate cancer care.

**Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center:**

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) is a world-renowned cancer center with a dedicated prostate cancer program. MSKCC is a leading center for research and treatment of prostate cancer, offering a wide range of advanced therapies and clinical trials.

**Mount Sinai Hospital:**

Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City also has a strong oncology program.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific hospitals, several factors should influence a patient's decision:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the urologist, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist. Look for board certifications and experience in treating prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like IMRT and brachytherapy), and hormone therapy.
* **Technology:** Evaluate the availability of advanced imaging and treatment technologies, such as MRI, PET scans, and robotic surgery.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's patient-centered care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care. Many hospitals offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online support groups. These services can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. Inquire about the telehealth options available at each hospital.

**Clinical Trials:**

Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. Ask your doctor about the availability of clinical trials at the hospitals you are considering.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near ZIP code 08733, highlighting the key hospitals in the area and the factors to consider. Patients should conduct thorough research, consult with their primary care physician, and discuss their individual needs and preferences with specialists to make the best choice for their care. Remember that this review is a snapshot in time. Hospital services and ratings can change. Always confirm information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers.