41240, Paintsville, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41240, Paintsville, Kentucky is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 41240: A Comprehensive Review**

The ZIP code 41240, encompassing the city of Paintsville, Kentucky, and surrounding areas, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This review delves into the available breast cancer care options, focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services, offering a detailed look for patients seeking the best possible treatment near this location.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a valuable rating system for hospitals, using a star system to indicate overall quality. While no hospitals are located directly within the 41240 ZIP code, several regional facilities serve as primary healthcare providers for residents.

**Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center (PBRMC)** in Paintsville, KY, is a key player. PBRMC, a 75-bed facility, is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special designation and funding due to its rural location and role in serving a medically underserved population. CMS star ratings may not be directly available for critical access hospitals, but PBRMC is a vital resource for initial diagnosis and stabilization. The hospital offers basic diagnostic services, including mammography, but advanced treatments often require referral to larger regional centers.

**Cabell Huntington Hospital** in Huntington, West Virginia, is a larger, more comprehensive facility that frequently serves patients from the 41240 area. Cabell Huntington Hospital is a tertiary care center with a more extensive range of specialty services. It is part of the Mountain Health Network, which includes St. Mary's Medical Center, also in Huntington. Cabell Huntington Hospital has a four-star CMS rating, indicating above-average quality.

**St. Mary's Medical Center** in Huntington, West Virginia, also part of the Mountain Health Network, is another significant option. St. Mary's Medical Center, with a four-star CMS rating, provides a broad spectrum of healthcare services. This hospital is known for its comprehensive cancer care programs, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The hospital's breast cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

**King's Daughters Medical Center** in Ashland, Kentucky, is another regional hospital serving the area. King's Daughters Medical Center is a large regional referral center. It is a multi-campus system with a comprehensive cancer center. The hospital has a three-star CMS rating.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in healthcare accessibility, especially during a potential cancer crisis. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but generally, hospitals with higher patient volumes tend to have longer wait times.

PBRMC, as a critical access hospital, aims to provide timely emergency care to its community. However, due to its size and resources, it may have longer wait times compared to larger hospitals.

Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center, both in Huntington, West Virginia, typically have higher ER volumes. Patients can expect to experience longer wait times, particularly during peak hours.

King's Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, Kentucky, is a large regional referral center. Wait times can vary, but the hospital is equipped to handle a large volume of patients.

It's essential to check real-time wait times using online tools or hospital websites before seeking emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Programs**

Specialized breast cancer centers offer comprehensive care, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services.

Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, both have well-developed cancer programs. These hospitals offer multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and oncology nurses. They provide access to advanced treatment options, including clinical trials.

King's Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, Kentucky, has a dedicated cancer center. The center provides a range of services, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital is committed to providing comprehensive cancer care to its patients.

PBRMC in Paintsville, KY, provides basic diagnostic services. However, advanced treatment options are typically referred to larger regional centers.

**Telehealth and Remote Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care.

Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, offer telehealth services. These services can include virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of patients, and support groups.

King's Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, Kentucky, has expanded its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

PBRMC in Paintsville, KY, may offer telehealth services through partnerships with larger healthcare systems.

The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specific specialty and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Diagnostic Capabilities and Imaging Services**

Early detection is crucial in breast cancer treatment. Access to advanced diagnostic imaging services is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging.

PBRMC in Paintsville, KY, offers basic diagnostic services, including mammography.

Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center, and King's Daughters Medical Center provide a full range of imaging services, including:

* **Mammography:** Digital mammography and 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) are available at these hospitals.
* **Ultrasound:** Breast ultrasound is used to evaluate suspicious findings.
* **MRI:** Breast MRI is used for further evaluation of abnormalities and for high-risk patients.
* **Biopsy:** Image-guided biopsies (ultrasound-guided, stereotactic, and MRI-guided) are performed to confirm a diagnosis.

**Surgical Options and Treatment Approaches**

Surgical options for breast cancer vary depending on the stage and type of cancer.

Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center, and King's Daughters Medical Center offer a wide range of surgical options, including:

* **Lumpectomy:** Removal of the tumor and a margin of surrounding tissue.
* **Mastectomy:** Removal of the entire breast.
* **Sentinel lymph node biopsy:** Removal of the sentinel lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.
* **Axillary lymph node dissection:** Removal of lymph nodes in the armpit if cancer has spread.
* **Breast reconstruction:** Surgical procedures to restore the shape and appearance of the breast after mastectomy.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy**

Medical oncologists specialize in the medical treatment of cancer, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center, and King's Daughters Medical Center have medical oncology departments. These hospitals offer chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. The medical oncology teams work closely with surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center, and King's Daughters Medical Center have radiation oncology departments. These hospitals offer external beam radiation therapy, including:

* **3D conformal radiation therapy:** Radiation is precisely targeted to the tumor.
* **Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT):** Radiation beams are shaped to conform to the tumor's shape.
* **Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT):** High doses of radiation are delivered in a few sessions.

**Support Services and Resources**

Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Support services are essential for patients and their families.

Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center, and King's Daughters Medical Center offer a range of support services, including:

* **Nurse navigators:** Registered nurses who guide patients through the treatment process.
* **Support groups:** Groups where patients can share experiences and provide emotional support.
* **Counseling:** Mental health professionals who provide individual and family counseling.
* **Nutrition counseling:** Registered dietitians who provide guidance on healthy eating.
* **Financial assistance:** Resources to help patients with the cost of treatment.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations**

Insurance coverage and financial considerations are critical aspects of healthcare access. Patients should verify their insurance coverage with their providers and understand their out-of-pocket costs. Financial assistance programs may be available to help patients with the cost of treatment.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 41240, access to comprehensive breast cancer care requires considering a range of factors. While Paintsville's PBRMC provides essential services, larger regional centers like Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center (both in Huntington, WV), and King's Daughters Medical Center (Ashland, KY) offer more advanced diagnostic and treatment options. Patients should research hospitals, compare services, consider CMS star ratings, assess ER wait times, and utilize telehealth options when available. By carefully evaluating these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their breast cancer care and access the best possible treatment.