Breast Cancer Score

35147, Sterrett, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

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Hospital Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama

Breast Cancer Score 93
People Score 78
Provider Score 96
Hospital Score 39
Travel Score 59

Hospital Score Review of 35147, Sterrett, Alabama

## Breast Cancer Care in the Birmingham Metro: A Scorecard for ZIP Code 35147

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. For residents of ZIP code 35147 (Leeds, Alabama, and surrounding areas), a range of options are available within a reasonable driving distance, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-based assessment of the leading hospitals in the Birmingham metropolitan area, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer treatment and patient experience.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Birmingham area boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure, including several nationally recognized hospitals and specialized cancer centers. Proximity to these facilities is a significant advantage for residents of 35147, allowing for quicker access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. However, navigating the choices can be overwhelming. This review aims to simplify the process by focusing on key performance indicators and patient-centric factors.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a standardized measure of overall quality. While the ratings are not specifically tailored to breast cancer care, they provide a general indication of a hospital's performance across various aspects of patient care.

**UAB Hospital (Birmingham, AL):** Located in downtown Birmingham, UAB Hospital is the flagship hospital of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Health System. UAB consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive cancer care. UAB Hospital currently holds a 4-star CMS rating. The hospital's O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a prestigious designation indicating a high level of research, treatment, and patient care. This designation means patients have access to cutting-edge clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham (Birmingham, AL):** St. Vincent's Birmingham, part of Ascension Health, is another major player in the Birmingham healthcare market. St. Vincent's has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a dedicated breast health center and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times can be a significant concern, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to breast cancer treatment. Shorter wait times can translate to quicker access to care and reduced stress.

**UAB Hospital:** UAB Hospital's ER wait times typically fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times on hospital websites or third-party platforms like Google Maps before heading to the emergency room.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham:** St. Vincent's Birmingham generally reports wait times that are competitive with other major hospitals in the area. Checking online resources for current wait times is advisable.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise:**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers and experienced medical teams is crucial. These centers often offer advanced diagnostic tools, surgical expertise, and comprehensive support services.

**UAB's O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center:** The O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB is a major draw. The center houses a dedicated breast cancer program with a team of medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. They offer advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound. The center’s participation in clinical trials provides access to the latest treatment options.

**St. Vincent's Breast Health Center:** St. Vincent's Breast Health Center provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. The center offers diagnostic imaging, surgical services, and reconstructive surgery options.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring of patients. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**UAB Hospital:** UAB Health System has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual appointments with oncologists and other specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients needing regular check-ins or follow-up care.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham:** St. Vincent's also offers telehealth options, allowing patients to connect with their care team remotely. The availability and specific services offered may vary.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: Mammography and Beyond:**

Access to advanced diagnostic imaging is critical for early detection and accurate staging of breast cancer.

**UAB Hospital:** UAB Hospital's O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center utilizes state-of-the-art imaging technology, including digital mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound. They also offer image-guided biopsies for precise diagnosis.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham:** St. Vincent's Breast Health Center provides comprehensive diagnostic imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI.

**Surgical Options and Reconstruction:**

The availability of experienced breast surgeons and a range of surgical options, including breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) and mastectomy, is crucial. Reconstructive surgery options are also a key consideration for many patients.

**UAB Hospital:** UAB's O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center boasts a team of highly skilled breast surgeons who perform a wide range of surgical procedures. They offer both immediate and delayed breast reconstruction options, including implant-based and autologous (using the patient's own tissue) reconstruction.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham:** St. Vincent's offers surgical options for breast cancer treatment, including lumpectomy and mastectomy. They also provide reconstructive surgery services.

**Radiation Oncology:**

Radiation therapy is a common component of breast cancer treatment. Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques and experienced radiation oncologists is essential.

**UAB Hospital:** UAB's O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center has a state-of-the-art radiation oncology department, offering advanced techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**St. Vincent's Birmingham:** St. Vincent's provides radiation oncology services, including access to advanced radiation therapy techniques.

**Support Services and Patient Experience:**

Beyond medical treatment, support services play a vital role in the patient experience. These include support groups, counseling, nutritional guidance, and financial assistance.

**UAB Hospital:** UAB's O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center offers a comprehensive range of support services, including support groups, counseling, and access to social workers and patient navigators. They also provide resources for financial assistance.

**St. Vincent's Birmingham:** St. Vincent's provides support services, including patient navigators and support groups.

**Proximity and Accessibility:**

The distance from 35147 to each hospital is a practical consideration. UAB Hospital is approximately 20-30 minutes away, depending on traffic. St. Vincent's Birmingham is also within a similar driving distance.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Patients should confirm that the hospitals they are considering accept their insurance plan. Both UAB Hospital and St. Vincent's Birmingham accept a wide range of insurance plans.

**Making the Choice:**

Choosing the best hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of 35147 have excellent options within a reasonable distance. UAB Hospital, with its NCI designation and comprehensive cancer center, offers a high level of expertise and access to cutting-edge treatments. St. Vincent's Birmingham provides a strong alternative with a dedicated breast health center and a multidisciplinary approach. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their choice. Consulting with their primary care physician and seeking second opinions are always recommended. Thorough research, including reviewing hospital websites, patient testimonials, and physician profiles, will help patients make an informed decision and embark on their treatment journey with confidence.

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Health Scores Near 35147, Sterrett, Alabama

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Health Scores in 35147, Sterrett, Alabama