36373, Shorterville, Alabama Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 36373, Shorterville, Alabama is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Dothan Area: A Scorecard

Finding the right breast cancer care is a deeply personal journey, and access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review focuses on the hospitals and resources available near ZIP code 36373 (Ozark, Alabama) to provide a factual overview for those seeking treatment or considering relocation. This is not a ranking, but a compilation of available data to aid informed decision-making.

**Regional Hub: Southeast Health Medical Center (Dothan)**

Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, a short drive from Ozark, serves as a major regional healthcare provider. While not directly within the 36373 ZIP code, its proximity and comprehensive services make it a central point of consideration. Southeast Health is a large, acute care facility and a designated Level II Trauma Center. It's important to note that CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics. The most recent publicly available data indicates Southeast Health Medical Center has a CMS star rating. These ratings are dynamic and reflect a snapshot in time, so it's essential to check the CMS website for the most up-to-date information.

Southeast Health boasts a dedicated Cancer Center, offering a range of services including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The center provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists to create personalized treatment plans. Specifics on their breast cancer program, such as the number of breast cancer cases treated annually, the availability of clinical trials, and the types of advanced imaging technologies used (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI) are key data points to investigate directly with the hospital.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially during a health crisis. Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate. The data may be available through the hospital's website or through third-party websites that aggregate this information. It's important to understand that these are averages and individual wait times can vary.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond general oncology, it's important to investigate specific programs within the Cancer Center. Does the center have a dedicated breast cancer program? Are there specialized breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists? Do they offer genetic counseling and testing for individuals at high risk? Inquire about the availability of support groups, patient navigators, and survivorship programs. These resources can significantly impact the patient experience.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support. Southeast Health likely offers some telehealth services. Investigate the availability of virtual appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. Find out if remote monitoring tools are used to track patient progress and manage side effects.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

While Southeast Health is a major player, other hospitals in the broader region may offer relevant services. It's important to research all options.

**Smaller Hospitals and Clinics:**

Smaller hospitals and clinics in the area may offer basic diagnostic services, such as mammograms. These facilities may serve as a point of entry for screening and initial diagnosis. However, complex cases often require referral to a larger facility with specialized resources.

**Outpatient Facilities:**

Outpatient facilities, such as imaging centers and radiation therapy centers, may be located independently of hospitals. These facilities can provide convenient access to specific services. Research the accreditation and quality of these facilities.

**Data Collection and Verification:**

The information presented here is based on publicly available data and general knowledge of the healthcare landscape. However, healthcare data is constantly evolving. The most reliable information comes directly from the hospitals themselves. Contact each hospital's patient services or cancer center directly to verify information, obtain specific data, and ask detailed questions about their programs and services.

**Key Questions to Ask:**

When contacting hospitals, prepare a list of specific questions. These should include:

* What is the hospital's CMS star rating?
* What is the average ER wait time?
* How many breast cancer cases are treated annually?
* What types of breast cancer specialists are on staff (e.g., breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists)?
* Does the hospital offer genetic counseling and testing?
* Are clinical trials available?
* What types of advanced imaging technologies are used?
* What support services are available (e.g., patient navigators, support groups, survivorship programs)?
* What telehealth services are offered?
* What are the hospital's infection control practices?

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs are a significant concern. Verify which insurance plans are accepted by each hospital and specialist. Inquire about financial assistance programs and payment options. The hospital's billing department can provide detailed information on costs and payment plans.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:**

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Search online for reviews on websites such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews. However, remember that these reviews are subjective and should be considered alongside other objective data.

**Second Opinions:**

Seeking a second opinion is always a good practice, especially when dealing with a serious diagnosis like breast cancer. Discuss this with your primary care physician and consider consulting with specialists at different hospitals or cancer centers.

**The Importance of Accreditation:**

Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC), is an important indicator of quality. Accreditation signifies that the hospital meets specific standards for cancer care. Inquire about the hospital's accreditation status and the specific programs accredited.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the complexities of breast cancer care requires diligent research and informed decision-making. This review provides a starting point for understanding the available resources near ZIP code 36373. By gathering specific data from the hospitals, asking detailed questions, and considering individual needs and preferences, patients can make informed choices that align with their personal health goals. Remember to verify all information directly with the healthcare providers and consult with your physician to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.