33647, Tampa, Florida Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 33647, Tampa, Florida is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Tampa's 33647

Finding the right breast cancer care is a journey, and location plays a crucial role. This review analyzes hospitals near the 33647 ZIP code in Tampa, Florida, focusing on key factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to help patients make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 33647 ZIP code, encompassing areas like New Tampa, places residents within a reasonable distance of several major hospitals. The quality of breast cancer care varies, and understanding the nuances of each facility is essential. This review prioritizes data, aiming to provide a clear picture of the available options.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

Several hospitals in the vicinity of 33647 are considered regional leaders. These institutions often boast comprehensive cancer centers and a wide range of services.

* **AdventHealth Tampa:** Located within a short drive, AdventHealth Tampa is a major player. It is a large, full-service hospital with a dedicated cancer institute. CMS star ratings are a key indicator of overall quality. AdventHealth Tampa consistently scores well, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and outcomes. The hospital's ER wait times are generally reported, providing insight into the speed of access to emergency care. AdventHealth Tampa offers a range of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, and radiation therapy. They have a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, a significant advantage for patients seeking convenience and accessibility.

* **Tampa General Hospital (TGH):** TGH, a nationally recognized teaching hospital, is another prominent option. It is a Level I trauma center and has a comprehensive cancer center. TGH's CMS star rating reflects its performance across various quality metrics. The hospital's ER wait times are publicly available, allowing patients to assess the potential wait times. TGH provides a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including advanced surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and radiation oncology. Their telehealth platform is expanding, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

* **HCA Florida Brandon Hospital:** Located nearby, Brandon Hospital is part of the HCA Florida network. It is a large hospital with a dedicated cancer center. The CMS star rating provides an overview of the hospital's performance. Brandon Hospital's ER wait times are reported, enabling patients to gauge the speed of emergency care access. Brandon Hospital offers a range of breast cancer services, including surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They are actively developing their telehealth capabilities to enhance patient access to care.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, specialized centers offer focused expertise in breast cancer care.

* **Moffitt Cancer Center:** While a bit further away, Moffitt Cancer Center is a nationally renowned cancer center. It is a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. Moffitt's reputation for research and innovation is well-established. They offer cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. Moffitt's telehealth program is extensive, providing virtual consultations, support groups, and educational resources.

* **Breast Cancer Centers within Hospitals:** Many hospitals, including those mentioned above, have dedicated breast cancer centers. These centers often bring together a team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, to provide coordinated care. They typically offer advanced imaging services, such as 3D mammography and MRI, and access to the latest treatment options.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms or needing immediate care. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and hospital websites provide insights into average wait times. Shorter wait times indicate more efficient emergency care. Patients should consider the ER wait times of each hospital when making decisions about where to seek care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. Telehealth offers virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring options. The availability and quality of telehealth services vary among hospitals. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when choosing a hospital or specialist. Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients living in rural areas or with mobility limitations.

**Specific Service Offerings: A Closer Look**

The specific services offered by each hospital are a critical consideration.

* **Imaging:** Advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), MRI, and ultrasound, are essential for early detection and diagnosis. Patients should inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.
* **Surgery:** Surgical options include lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel node biopsy. The experience and expertise of the surgical team are crucial.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. Hospitals should have dedicated chemotherapy infusion centers and experienced oncology nurses.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy is often used to treat breast cancer. Hospitals should have advanced radiation therapy equipment and experienced radiation oncologists.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatment options. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance, are essential for patients and their families.

**Data Sources and Verification**

This review relies on publicly available data from sources like the CMS, hospital websites, and reputable healthcare rating organizations. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, data can change. Patients should always verify information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. They should research the hospitals in their area, evaluate their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and service offerings. Consulting with their primary care physician or a breast cancer specialist is also crucial.

**Navigating the Future**

The landscape of breast cancer care is constantly evolving. New treatments, technologies, and approaches are emerging. Patients should stay informed about the latest developments and work with their healthcare team to create a personalized care plan. The hospitals near the 33647 ZIP code offer a range of options, and by carefully considering the factors discussed in this review, patients can make informed decisions and access the best possible care.