43787, Stockport, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43787, Stockport, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in Southeastern Ohio: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 43787**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting, and choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable distance of ZIP code 43787 (Woodsfield, Ohio), evaluating their capabilities in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. We will consider factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth options, and overall reputation to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The area around Woodsfield, Ohio, presents a unique challenge. It's a largely rural region, and access to specialized medical care can be limited. Residents often rely on hospitals in neighboring counties or even across state lines. This review will prioritize hospitals within a 50-75 mile radius, recognizing that travel time is a significant consideration for patients.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

One of the closest hospitals with a significant presence is **Wheeling Hospital** in Wheeling, West Virginia. While not directly in Ohio, it serves a large population in the Ohio Valley. Wheeling Hospital has a mixed record. It has a 3-star rating from CMS, indicating average performance across various quality measures. ER wait times are typically around 30-60 minutes, which is within the national average. Wheeling Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. However, specific data on breast cancer survival rates and the number of breast cancer cases treated annually is not readily available.

Further afield, but potentially accessible, is **WVU Medicine Barnesville Hospital**. It is a smaller hospital and does not have a CMS star rating, but is located closer to the 43787 zip code. It offers a breast health program, including mammography and diagnostic services. It is a smaller facility, so it may not have the same breadth of services as larger hospitals.

**Specialized Centers and Expertise**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a crucial indicator of a hospital's commitment to this disease. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff to provide coordinated care.

Wheeling Hospital has a cancer center, but specifics regarding its breast cancer program, such as the availability of dedicated breast surgeons, specialized nurses, and support groups, would require further investigation.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: Screening and Imaging**

Early detection is paramount in breast cancer treatment. Hospitals near 43787 should offer a full suite of diagnostic services, including:

* **Mammography:** Both 2D and 3D (tomosynthesis) mammography are essential for screening and diagnosis.
* **Ultrasound:** Used to evaluate suspicious areas found on mammograms.
* **MRI:** Magnetic resonance imaging can provide more detailed images, particularly for women with dense breasts or those at high risk.
* **Biopsy:** Image-guided biopsies are necessary to confirm a diagnosis and determine the cancer's characteristics.

Information on the availability of these services, including the type of mammography offered and the qualifications of the radiologists, should be readily available on the hospital's website or through direct inquiry.

**Treatment Options: Surgery, Radiation, and Chemotherapy**

The hospitals should offer a range of treatment options, including:

* **Surgery:** Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast) are common surgical procedures.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Used to kill cancer cells after surgery or as a primary treatment.
* **Chemotherapy:** Drugs used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
* **Hormone Therapy:** Used to block hormones that can fuel breast cancer growth.
* **Targeted Therapy:** Drugs that target specific cancer cells.

The availability of these treatments, as well as the expertise of the surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, should be carefully considered.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It allows patients to connect with specialists remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. Hospitals near 43787 should offer telehealth options for breast cancer patients.

Information on telehealth availability, including the types of services offered, the technology used, and the ease of access, is essential.

**Support Services: Beyond Medical Treatment**

Breast cancer treatment involves much more than medical procedures. Hospitals should offer a range of support services, including:

* **Patient Navigators:** To help patients navigate the healthcare system.
* **Support Groups:** To connect patients with others who have similar experiences.
* **Counseling:** To address emotional and psychological needs.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** To help patients recover from treatment.
* **Financial Assistance:** To help patients with the costs of care.

The availability of these services can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical concern, especially during a medical crisis. Hospitals near 43787 should have reasonable wait times. These can vary depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Patients should be aware of the average wait times at the hospitals they are considering.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of a hospital's performance. However, they are not a perfect measure of quality. Patients should not rely solely on star ratings when choosing a hospital. They should also consider other factors, such as the hospital's reputation, the expertise of its physicians, and the availability of specialized services.

**Patient Reviews and Reputation**

Online patient reviews and the hospital's overall reputation are important factors to consider. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and U.S. News & World Report provide patient reviews and ratings. These can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Specific Hospital Analysis (Based on Available Information)**

Based on the limited readily available data, a clear "best" hospital for breast cancer care near 43787 is difficult to determine. Wheeling Hospital, while the closest flagship hospital, has a mixed record. The lack of specific data on breast cancer outcomes and the limited CMS star rating raise concerns. Smaller hospitals, like WVU Medicine Barnesville Hospital, may offer more personalized care, but might lack the comprehensive services of a larger facility.

**Recommendations for Patients**

Patients in the 43787 area should:

1. **Research thoroughly:** Contact the hospitals to gather detailed information about their breast cancer programs.
2. **Ask specific questions:** Inquire about the number of breast cancer cases treated annually, survival rates, the experience of the surgeons and oncologists, the availability of specialized services, and the support services offered.
3. **Consider travel time:** Factor in the time it takes to travel to and from the hospital for appointments and treatment.
4. **Consult with their primary care physician:** Seek their recommendation and guidance.
5. **Consider seeking a second opinion:** If possible, obtain a second opinion from a different hospital or specialist.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for patients in the 43787 area. Further research, including direct inquiries to the hospitals and consultation with healthcare providers, is essential to make an informed decision. The best hospital is the one that offers the best combination of expertise, services, support, and accessibility for the individual patient.