47536, Fulda, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47536, Fulda, Indiana is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Your Backyard: A Review of Hospitals Near 47536

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized care and supportive resources, is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the 47536 ZIP code, offering a fact-rich overview to help you make informed decisions. We'll delve into key metrics, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a clear picture of the available options.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 47536 ZIP code encompasses the town of Jasper, Indiana, and surrounding areas. This region is served primarily by a network of community hospitals and regional medical centers. Access to larger, tertiary care facilities in nearby cities like Evansville and Louisville is also a consideration.

**Local Hospital Spotlight: Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center (Jasper, IN)**

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, located directly within the 47536 ZIP code, is a primary point of care for many residents. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating readily available on the CMS website, it's a critical access hospital, meaning it is a rural hospital that provides a safety net for patients in the area. Memorial Hospital offers a comprehensive breast health program, including diagnostic imaging, such as mammograms and ultrasounds, and biopsy services. They also provide surgical options and access to medical oncology and radiation therapy through their partnerships with other providers.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Consideration**

ER wait times are a key indicator of a hospital's capacity and efficiency. While real-time data fluctuates, understanding average wait times is essential. Memorial Hospital's ER wait times are generally reported to be around 30-45 minutes. It is important to confirm the most up-to-date wait times on hospital websites or through third-party apps like Google before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Cancer Care**

Memorial Hospital has a dedicated cancer center that offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. This center typically brings together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. They also offer support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Memorial Hospital provides telehealth services, which can improve access to specialists and reduce travel burdens for patients. Patients can often attend follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and receive medication management through virtual platforms.

**Venturing Beyond Jasper: Regional Options**

While Memorial Hospital is the local hub, patients may seek specialized care at larger regional hospitals.

**Deaconess Health System (Evansville, IN)**

Located approximately an hour's drive from Jasper, Deaconess Health System in Evansville is a major healthcare provider in the region. Deaconess has multiple hospitals, including Deaconess Hospital, Deaconess Gateway Hospital, and Deaconess Midtown Hospital. Deaconess Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. Deaconess Gateway Hospital has a 4-star rating. Deaconess Midtown Hospital has a 3-star rating.

Deaconess offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical options, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials. Their Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to care, with dedicated breast cancer specialists.

**ER Wait Times at Deaconess**

ER wait times at Deaconess hospitals can vary. Deaconess Hospital, for example, often reports wait times in the 1-2 hour range. Deaconess Gateway Hospital often reports wait times in the 30-60 minute range. It is crucial to check real-time wait times on their website or through online platforms before visiting.

**Telehealth at Deaconess**

Deaconess Health System has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients needing convenient access to specialists or managing chronic conditions.

**Norton Healthcare (Louisville, KY)**

Approximately a two-hour drive from Jasper, Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky, offers another option for specialized breast cancer care. Norton Healthcare has multiple hospitals, including Norton Hospital, Norton Audubon Hospital, and Norton Brownsboro Hospital. Norton Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. Norton Audubon Hospital has a 3-star rating. Norton Brownsboro Hospital has a 4-star rating.

Norton Healthcare's Norton Cancer Institute offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, medical oncology, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. They also have a strong focus on research and innovation in cancer treatment.

**ER Wait Times at Norton**

ER wait times at Norton hospitals can vary. Norton Hospital, for example, often reports wait times in the 1-2 hour range. Norton Audubon Hospital often reports wait times in the 1-2 hour range. Norton Brownsboro Hospital often reports wait times in the 30-60 minute range. It is crucial to check real-time wait times on their website or through online platforms before visiting.

**Telehealth at Norton**

Norton Healthcare has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can provide patients with convenient access to specialists and support.

**Key Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for breast cancer care, consider these factors:

* **Expertise:** Does the hospital have a dedicated breast cancer center with experienced specialists?
* **Technology:** Does the hospital offer advanced diagnostic imaging and treatment options?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital offer a team-based approach to care, involving surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists?
* **Support Services:** Does the hospital provide support groups, patient navigation, and other resources?
* **Access:** Is the hospital conveniently located, and does it offer telehealth options?
* **ER Wait Times:** Understand average wait times to make informed decisions about where to seek care in an emergency.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the sole indicator of quality, CMS star ratings can offer a general overview of hospital performance.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the recommendations of your primary care physician. Research the hospitals in your area, compare their services, and don't hesitate to ask questions. Visiting the hospitals, if possible, and meeting with the care team can also help you feel more confident in your choice. The goal is to find a hospital that provides the best possible care and support throughout your breast cancer journey.