47634, Richland, Indiana Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 47634, Richland, Indiana is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care: A Hospital Scorecard Near Princeton, Indiana (ZIP Code 47634)**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires navigating a complex healthcare landscape. For residents of Princeton, Indiana (ZIP code 47634), understanding the capabilities of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review provides a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics and resources relevant to breast cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. The goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**The Landscape: Regional Healthcare Providers**

The immediate vicinity of Princeton, Indiana, is primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These institutions represent the core options for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for the community.

**Evansville, Indiana: The Primary Hub**

Evansville, approximately 30 miles south of Princeton, serves as a regional medical hub. It boasts several hospitals offering a range of services, including comprehensive cancer care.

**Deaconess Health System:** Deaconess is a prominent healthcare provider in the Evansville area. It operates multiple hospitals, including Deaconess Hospital, which is a major referral center. Deaconess Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it indicates an average performance across various quality metrics. Deaconess offers a dedicated cancer center, providing multidisciplinary care for various cancer types, including breast cancer. The center typically includes medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. Information on specific breast cancer survival rates and patient outcomes is available upon request, though these figures can vary.

**Emergency Room Considerations:** ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially during a crisis. Deaconess Hospital's ER wait times fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms before arriving.

**Telehealth Integration:** Deaconess Health System has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Telehealth can reduce travel burdens and improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Specific telehealth availability for breast cancer patients, including the types of appointments offered, should be verified directly with the hospital.

**St. Vincent Evansville:** Another major player in Evansville, St. Vincent Evansville is part of Ascension, a large Catholic health system. St. Vincent Evansville has a 3-star CMS rating. St. Vincent Evansville also has a dedicated cancer center. The center likely provides a range of breast cancer services, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. The hospital's website or patient services can provide details on specific breast cancer specialists and treatment options.

**ER Wait Times:** Like Deaconess, St. Vincent Evansville's ER wait times vary. Patients should consult the hospital's website or other online resources for current wait times.

**Telehealth:** St. Vincent Evansville has also increased its telehealth capabilities. The availability of telehealth appointments for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Smaller Community Hospitals: Local Options**

While Evansville provides the most comprehensive options, smaller hospitals closer to Princeton offer some services and can be valuable for specific aspects of care.

**Gibson General Hospital (Princeton, IN):** Located directly in Princeton, Gibson General Hospital is a critical access hospital serving the local community. It may offer initial diagnostic services, such as mammograms and biopsies, and provide a point of access for patients. However, for complex treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, patients are typically referred to larger hospitals in Evansville or other regional centers. Gibson General Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Gibson General Hospital are typically shorter than those in Evansville, but this can fluctuate.

**Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services at Gibson General Hospital should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Good Samaritan Hospital (Vincennes, IN):** Located approximately 40 miles north of Princeton, Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes is another option. It may offer some diagnostic and treatment services, but it is important to confirm the specific capabilities related to breast cancer care. Good Samaritan Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times should be checked with the hospital directly.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth options should be verified with the hospital.

**Key Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

Beyond hospital ratings and ER wait times, several factors are critical for breast cancer patients.

**Specialized Breast Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated breast centers. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and specialized nurses. They may also offer support services, such as genetic counseling, patient navigators, and support groups.

**Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) indicates a commitment to quality and comprehensive care.

**Surgeon Experience:** The experience of the breast surgeon is crucial. Inquire about the surgeon's training, experience, and the number of breast cancer surgeries performed annually.

**Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a full range of treatment options, including surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at the hospital.

**Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, social workers, support groups, and rehabilitation services.

**Financial Considerations:** Understand the hospital's billing practices, insurance coverage, and financial assistance programs.

**Specific Breast Cancer Services**

**Mammography and Diagnostic Imaging:** The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is crucial for early detection. Ensure the hospital offers these services.

**Surgical Options:** Discuss surgical options with the surgeon, including lumpectomy, mastectomy (with or without reconstruction), and sentinel lymph node biopsy.

**Oncology Services:** The hospital should have a well-equipped oncology department with experienced medical oncologists and radiation oncologists.

**Chemotherapy and Infusion Services:** The availability of chemotherapy and infusion services, including comfortable infusion suites and experienced nurses, is essential.

**Radiation Therapy:** If radiation therapy is required, ensure the hospital has advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Reconstruction Options:** If a mastectomy is planned, inquire about breast reconstruction options, including immediate or delayed reconstruction, and the availability of plastic surgeons.

**Patient Navigation:** Patient navigators are invaluable in helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Inquire about the availability of a patient navigator at the hospital.

**Support Groups:** Support groups provide a valuable opportunity for patients to connect with others who have experienced breast cancer.

**Telehealth's Role in Breast Cancer Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in breast cancer care. It can be used for:

* **Follow-up appointments:** Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
* **Medication management:** Telehealth can facilitate medication refills and address any side effects.
* **Consultations:** Telehealth can provide access to specialists who may not be available locally.
* **Psychological support:** Telehealth can offer access to therapists and counselors.
* **Educational resources:** Telehealth can provide access to educational materials and support groups.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

For residents of Princeton, Indiana (ZIP code 47634), the best breast cancer care options are primarily found in Evansville, with Gibson General Hospital serving as a local point of access. Patients should carefully research the hospitals, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized breast centers, surgeon experience, treatment options, support services, and telehealth capabilities. By gathering this information and consulting with their primary care physicians, patients can make informed decisions and choose the healthcare provider that best meets their individual needs.