44240, Kent, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44240, Kent, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near Hudson, OH (ZIP Code 44240)

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to quality care, from initial screening to advanced treatment, is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near Hudson, Ohio (ZIP Code 44240), evaluating their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Major Players**

The 44240 ZIP code sits within a region served by several major healthcare systems, including Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals (UH), and Summa Health. These systems offer varying levels of specialized care and resources for breast cancer patients. Proximity is a crucial factor, influencing ease of access for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. While this review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, it's essential to consider travel time and potential traffic when choosing a facility.

**Cleveland Clinic: A National Leader**

The Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized healthcare powerhouse, is a significant presence in the region. Their main campus, located in Cleveland, offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. While not directly in Hudson, the Cleveland Clinic's network includes several satellite locations and affiliated hospitals closer to the 44240 ZIP code.

The Cleveland Clinic Main Campus consistently receives high marks for its breast cancer services. They boast a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. Their Breast Cancer Center offers advanced diagnostic imaging, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and genetic counseling services. The clinic participates in numerous clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments.

The Cleveland Clinic's main campus holds a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. However, the CMS rating is based on the main campus, and it's important to investigate the ratings of specific satellite locations and affiliated hospitals.

**University Hospitals: A Strong Local Presence**

University Hospitals (UH) is another major player in the Northeast Ohio healthcare landscape. UH has a strong presence in the Hudson area, with several hospitals and outpatient facilities within a manageable distance.

UH Seidman Cancer Center, with its main campus in Cleveland, is a hub for cancer care. UH offers a robust breast cancer program, with a focus on personalized treatment plans. They have a dedicated breast health center offering comprehensive services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. UH also emphasizes patient support services, such as support groups and survivorship programs.

UH hospitals generally receive good CMS star ratings, though the specific ratings vary depending on the hospital location. It's crucial to check the CMS ratings for individual UH facilities near Hudson to assess their quality of care.

**Summa Health: Community-Focused Care**

Summa Health, with its main campus in Akron, provides another option for breast cancer care. Summa Health offers a range of services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. They have a dedicated breast center that provides comprehensive care.

Summa Health’s CMS star ratings can vary, so it's important to research the ratings of the specific Summa Health facilities closest to Hudson.

**Key Metrics: ER Wait Times and Patient Experience**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, particularly in emergency situations. Longer wait times can indicate potential overcrowding or resource limitations. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often accessible through hospital websites or third-party platforms. Comparing wait times across different hospitals can help patients assess their access to timely care.

Patient experience is another vital indicator of quality. CMS collects data on patient satisfaction through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. These surveys ask patients about their experiences with aspects of care, such as communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment. Analyzing HCAHPS scores can provide insights into the overall patient experience at each hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Treatments**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a significant advantage. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together a team of specialists to provide coordinated care. They may also offer access to advanced treatments, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

Access to advanced surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive procedures and breast reconstruction options, is also important. Hospitals with dedicated breast cancer centers often have surgeons specializing in these techniques.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility limitations.

Investigating the telehealth capabilities of each hospital is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telehealth, and the ease of use of the telehealth platform.

**Specific Hospital Considerations**

* **Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** This hospital, part of the Cleveland Clinic network, is located in Akron, a reasonable drive from Hudson. Research their specific breast cancer services, CMS ratings, and ER wait times.
* **UH Portage Medical Center (Ravenna):** Located in Ravenna, this hospital is closer to Hudson. Investigate their breast cancer program, CMS ratings, and ER wait times to assess their suitability.
* **Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** This is the main campus of Summa Health. Research their breast cancer services, CMS ratings, and ER wait times.

**Researching Specific Hospital Data**

To make an informed decision, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on each hospital. This includes:

* **CMS Hospital Compare:** This website provides CMS star ratings, HCAHPS scores, and other quality data for hospitals.
* **Hospital Websites:** Visit the websites of each hospital to learn about their breast cancer programs, services, and specialists.
* **Third-Party Websites:** Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide hospital ratings and reviews. However, evaluate these sources critically and consider the methodology used.
* **Consult with Your Physician:** Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with your primary care physician or oncologist. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. The hospitals near Hudson, Ohio, offer a range of options, from large, nationally recognized systems to community-focused facilities. By carefully evaluating factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and patient experience, individuals can make informed choices that align with their individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your healthcare team and conduct thorough research to ensure you receive the best possible care.