34465, Beverly Hills, Florida Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 34465, Beverly Hills, Florida is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Citrus County: A Scorecard for 34465

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 34465, offering insights into their capabilities, performance metrics, and resources for breast cancer patients. We'll examine flagship institutions, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and provide a framework for informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape: The Importance of Proximity and Choice**

ZIP code 34465 encompasses Crystal River, Florida, a community in Citrus County. While proximity to treatment centers is a significant factor for patients, the availability of specialized care and comprehensive services is paramount. This review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both local options and those in nearby metropolitan areas.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

**Citrus Memorial Hospital (Crystal River, FL):** Located within the 34465 ZIP code, Citrus Memorial Hospital is a key player. This hospital is part of the HCA Healthcare network, a large for-profit healthcare system. Citrus Memorial Hospital is a 3-star hospital based on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings. While this rating suggests areas for improvement, it is important to note that CMS ratings are just one metric and should not be the sole factor in choosing a hospital.

Citrus Memorial offers a dedicated Breast Health Center, providing diagnostic imaging services like mammograms, ultrasounds, and breast biopsies. They have a multidisciplinary approach, which means that a team of specialists works together to create a personalized treatment plan. This team typically includes surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals. The hospital also has a cancer registry to track cancer cases and outcomes, which is important for quality improvement and research.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at Citrus Memorial Hospital can vary. According to recent data, the median wait time to see a provider is around 20-30 minutes. However, this can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the volume of patients, and the severity of their conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** Citrus Memorial Hospital has a cancer care program accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This accreditation signifies a commitment to providing high-quality cancer care, including access to clinical trials and supportive services.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services are available at Citrus Memorial Hospital, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and other healthcare needs. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have difficulty traveling.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

**AdventHealth Ocala (Ocala, FL):** Located approximately 30 miles east of Crystal River, AdventHealth Ocala is another significant option. This hospital is part of the AdventHealth network, a faith-based non-profit healthcare system. AdventHealth Ocala has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Citrus Memorial Hospital.

AdventHealth Ocala has a comprehensive cancer center, offering a wide range of services for breast cancer patients. This includes advanced imaging technologies, surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The hospital also has a dedicated breast cancer support group and patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of their care.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at AdventHealth Ocala are generally longer than at Citrus Memorial Hospital. The median wait time to see a provider is usually around 40-60 minutes.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** AdventHealth Ocala has a nationally accredited cancer program by the Commission on Cancer. This accreditation demonstrates the hospital's commitment to providing high-quality cancer care, including access to clinical trials and supportive services.

**Telehealth Availability:** AdventHealth Ocala offers telehealth services, allowing patients to access care remotely. The hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years, providing more options for patients to connect with providers.

**Bayfront Health Seven Rivers (Crystal River, FL):** This hospital is located within the 34465 ZIP code. Bayfront Health Seven Rivers is a 2-star hospital based on the CMS star ratings.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at Bayfront Health Seven Rivers can vary. The median wait time to see a provider is usually around 30-45 minutes.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** Bayfront Health Seven Rivers offers a range of cancer care services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**Telehealth Availability:** Bayfront Health Seven Rivers offers telehealth services.

**Assessing Key Factors for Breast Cancer Care:**

Beyond CMS star ratings and ER wait times, several factors are crucial when evaluating hospitals for breast cancer care:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care. Accredited hospitals demonstrate a commitment to multidisciplinary care, comprehensive services, and quality improvement initiatives.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A collaborative approach involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and other specialists is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI, PET scans), surgical techniques, and radiation therapy modalities is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, genetic counseling, psychological support, and survivorship programs, enhance the patient experience and promote overall well-being.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials provides access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores offer valuable insights into the quality of care, communication, and overall experience.

**Making an Informed Choice:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and priorities.

**Recommendations:**

* **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and referrals to specialists.
* **Research Hospital Websites:** Explore the websites of the hospitals mentioned above to learn more about their services, programs, and staff.
* **Schedule Consultations:** Meet with breast cancer specialists at the hospitals you are considering to discuss your diagnosis, treatment options, and any questions you may have.
* **Consider Your Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospitals you are considering are in your insurance network.
* **Prioritize Quality of Care:** Focus on hospitals with a strong track record of providing high-quality breast cancer care, as evidenced by accreditation, a multidisciplinary approach, and positive patient outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment requires careful consideration and informed decision-making. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 34465, highlighting key factors to consider and offering insights into the capabilities of local and regional healthcare providers. By conducting thorough research, consulting with healthcare professionals, and prioritizing quality of care, patients can make informed choices that support their journey towards recovery. The best hospital for each individual depends on their specific needs and circumstances.