46787, South Whitley, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 46787, South Whitley, Indiana is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Hospitals Near Roanoke, IN (ZIP Code 46787)

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to top-tier medical care. For residents of Roanoke, Indiana (ZIP Code 46787), the search for the best hospitals involves considering a range of factors, from overall hospital quality and specialized cancer centers to wait times and telehealth options. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of the leading healthcare facilities in the region, focusing on their breast cancer services and overall performance.

**Regional Overview & Key Players**

Roanoke, Indiana, sits within a region served by a network of hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses in the realm of breast cancer care. The primary focus will be on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like accessibility and patient convenience. The major players include large health systems with multiple campuses, as well as smaller, specialized facilities.

**Parkview Health System:** A dominant force in the region, Parkview Health System operates several hospitals that are relevant to this review. Its flagship hospital, **Parkview Regional Medical Center (PRMC)** in Fort Wayne, is a primary contender. PRMC is a large, comprehensive facility and a major referral center.

**Lutheran Health Network:** Another significant health system, Lutheran Health Network, also has a presence in the area. Their facilities, particularly **Lutheran Hospital of Indiana** in Fort Wayne, are important to consider.

**Community Health Network:** While not as geographically close as the others, Community Health Network, with facilities in Indianapolis, may be an option for some patients seeking specific services or second opinions.

**Hospital Quality & CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a publicly available measure of overall quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency.

**Parkview Regional Medical Center** generally receives a good CMS star rating, often hovering around four stars. This indicates a solid level of overall quality and patient satisfaction. However, these ratings can fluctuate, so it's essential to check the most current data on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Lutheran Hospital of Indiana** also typically receives a respectable CMS star rating, often in the three- to four-star range. Again, consulting the most recent CMS data is crucial for an accurate assessment.

**Specialized Cancer Centers & Breast Cancer Programs**

Dedicated cancer centers and specialized breast cancer programs are critical components of comprehensive care. These centers often provide a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans.

**Parkview Cancer Institute (at PRMC)** is a major player in the region. This institute offers a wide range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services. They have a dedicated breast cancer program that focuses on early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. They are accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

**Lutheran Hospital** also has a cancer program, often integrated within a broader oncology service line. The specifics of their breast cancer program should be researched, including the availability of specialized breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They may also have accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

**Surgical Options & Expertise**

The surgical component of breast cancer treatment is a crucial aspect. The availability of experienced breast surgeons and access to advanced surgical techniques is a key consideration.

Both **Parkview Regional Medical Center** and **Lutheran Hospital** have surgical teams that perform breast cancer surgeries, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive procedures. Researching the specific surgeons available at each hospital, their experience, and their specialization within breast surgery is recommended. The types of procedures offered, such as nipple-sparing mastectomies and immediate reconstruction options, should also be investigated.

**Radiation Oncology Services**

Radiation therapy is a common component of breast cancer treatment. Access to state-of-the-art radiation oncology services is essential.

**Parkview Cancer Institute** houses a comprehensive radiation oncology department, equipped with advanced technologies like linear accelerators and image-guided radiation therapy. The availability of techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) should be confirmed.

**Lutheran Hospital** also has radiation oncology services. Determining the specific equipment and techniques available is crucial.

**Medical Oncology & Chemotherapy**

Medical oncologists are responsible for systemic therapies, including chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. The quality of medical oncology services, including access to the latest clinical trials and supportive care, is vital.

Both **Parkview Cancer Institute** and the cancer programs at **Lutheran Hospital** have medical oncology departments. Researching the specific medical oncologists, their experience, and their access to clinical trials is important. The availability of supportive services, such as nurse navigators, social workers, and support groups, should also be considered.

**Diagnostic Imaging & Early Detection**

Early detection is critical in breast cancer. Access to high-quality diagnostic imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, is paramount.

Both **Parkview Regional Medical Center** and **Lutheran Hospital** offer comprehensive diagnostic imaging services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). Confirming the availability of these advanced imaging techniques and the expertise of the radiologists is important. The ease of scheduling mammograms and other imaging tests should also be considered.

**ER Wait Times & Access to Care**

Emergency room wait times can be a factor in overall access to care, particularly in urgent situations.

**Parkview Regional Medical Center** typically has longer ER wait times than smaller facilities. Checking the most recent data on ER wait times, available on websites like the CMS Hospital Compare, is recommended.

**Lutheran Hospital** also has ER services, and wait times should be checked.

**Telehealth & Virtual Care Options**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Parkview Health System** has been expanding its telehealth offerings. Researching the availability of telehealth appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists is recommended.

**Lutheran Health Network** also likely offers telehealth services.

**Patient Experience & Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are important indicators of overall quality. Reviewing patient reviews on websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide insights into the experiences of other patients. However, it is important to recognize that these reviews are subjective.

**Financial Considerations**

Understanding the costs associated with breast cancer treatment is essential. Contacting the hospitals' billing departments to inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance programs is recommended.

**Community Health Network (Indianapolis)**

While further away, Community Health Network in Indianapolis may be an option for some patients. They have specialized cancer centers and may offer services not available locally. However, travel time and convenience must be factored into the decision.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Roanoke, Indiana (ZIP Code 46787), the best hospital for breast cancer care depends on individual needs and preferences. **Parkview Regional Medical Center** and **Lutheran Hospital of Indiana** are the primary contenders, offering comprehensive services and specialized cancer programs. Thorough research, including checking CMS star ratings, investigating specific programs and specialists, and considering factors like ER wait times and telehealth options, is essential to making an informed decision. Consulting with your primary care physician and potentially seeking second opinions from specialists at different hospitals is also highly recommended. This review provides a starting point for your research, but it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.