41840, Neon, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41840, Neon, Kentucky is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in Hazard, Kentucky: A Data-Driven Overview for 41840**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to quality healthcare. For residents of Hazard, Kentucky (ZIP code 41840), understanding the available resources is crucial. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals and healthcare providers within a reasonable radius, focusing on breast cancer care, accessibility, and key performance indicators.

**Regional Hospital Landscape**

The immediate vicinity of Hazard presents a limited range of hospital options. The primary facility serving the area is **Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center**. It's important to note that CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, a widely used metric for hospital quality, are not always available for smaller, rural hospitals. This doesn’t necessarily reflect poor quality, but rather the challenges in meeting the stringent reporting requirements.

**Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center**

Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center is a critical access hospital. This designation, given to hospitals in rural areas, is designed to ensure access to care. While a CMS star rating may not be available, it is important to assess the hospital's capabilities. It is crucial to investigate the availability of board-certified surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists specializing in breast cancer. Inquire about the hospital's accreditation status from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS), which can signify adherence to quality standards.

**Access and Wait Times**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, especially in emergency situations. Data on ER wait times can vary, and it's best to check resources like the hospital's website or third-party sites that aggregate data. However, this information is often not available for smaller hospitals. Call the hospital to find out what the average wait times are.

**Specialty Centers and Cancer Care**

The presence of a dedicated cancer center or oncology department is a key indicator of breast cancer care capabilities. Inquire if Hazard ARH has an oncology department, and if so, what services are offered. This includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. Investigate the availability of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and oncology nurses.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is paramount. Check the hospital's capabilities for breast cancer screening and diagnostics. This includes mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI. Confirm that the hospital has access to advanced imaging technologies and experienced radiologists specializing in breast imaging.

**Telehealth and Remote Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Inquire if Hazard ARH offers telehealth consultations with oncologists or other specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and accessing second opinions. Telehealth stats, such as the number of telehealth consultations per month or the types of services offered, are valuable metrics.

**Beyond Hazard: Exploring Regional Options**

Given the limitations of local resources, residents of 41840 may need to consider hospitals in nearby cities. This expands the range of options, potentially offering access to more specialized care and advanced technologies.

**University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center (Lexington, KY)**

Located approximately 100 miles from Hazard, the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, advanced treatment options, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. The Markey Cancer Center offers a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The University of Kentucky Hospital, which houses the Markey Cancer Center, has a CMS star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality and performance.
* **Specialty Centers:** Markey Cancer Center has dedicated breast cancer specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** The center offers advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound.
* **Telehealth:** The Markey Cancer Center has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UK Healthcare can be found on their website.

**Norton Cancer Institute (Louisville, KY)**

Norton Cancer Institute, located approximately 180 miles from Hazard, is another option for comprehensive cancer care. It is part of the Norton Healthcare system, which has multiple hospitals and cancer centers in the Louisville area. The Norton Cancer Institute offers a wide range of breast cancer services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Norton Healthcare hospitals have CMS star ratings, which can vary depending on the specific facility.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Norton Cancer Institute has dedicated breast cancer specialists and multidisciplinary teams.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** The institute offers advanced imaging technologies and diagnostic services.
* **Telehealth:** Norton Healthcare has a telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be found on the Norton Healthcare website.

**Other Considerations**

* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Research online patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other breast cancer patients at each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Yelp can provide valuable information.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan. Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage for breast cancer services.
* **Financial Assistance:** Inquire about financial assistance programs or payment options offered by the hospitals, especially if you are concerned about the cost of care.
* **Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as support groups, counseling, and patient navigators.
* **Transportation:** Consider the distance to each hospital and the availability of transportation options. If you live in a rural area, transportation may be a significant factor in accessing care.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for research, but it is essential to gather additional information and consult with your primary care physician or oncologist. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each hospital. By carefully evaluating the available options, you can make an informed decision that ensures access to the best possible care. Remember to prioritize the availability of experienced specialists, advanced diagnostic and treatment options, and supportive services to optimize your chances of a positive outcome.