44254, Lodi, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44254, Lodi, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Northeast Ohio: A Scorecard for 44254 (Ravenna)

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a daunting task. This review focuses on hospitals near Ravenna, Ohio (ZIP code 44254), providing a fact-based assessment to help navigate this critical healthcare landscape. We'll examine key factors like hospital quality ratings, specialized services, and access to care, including telehealth options. This information is current as of October 26, 2023.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

Ravenna, Ohio, is strategically positioned within a region offering a spectrum of healthcare options. While Ravenna itself may not boast a major medical center, several prominent hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance, offering comprehensive breast cancer care. This review will concentrate on those within a 30- to 60-minute radius, considering accessibility for residents of 44254.

**University Hospitals (UH) System:**

University Hospitals (UH) is a major player in the Northeast Ohio healthcare market. The system’s flagship hospital, **UH Cleveland Medical Center**, located approximately 45 miles northwest of Ravenna, is a nationally recognized facility. UH Cleveland Medical Center holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. CMS ratings are a useful, albeit imperfect, benchmark for comparing hospitals.

UH Cleveland Medical Center has a dedicated **Seidman Cancer Center**, which provides comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer services. The Seidman Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. They have a strong research focus, offering patients access to clinical trials and the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment.

**Cleveland Clinic System:**

The Cleveland Clinic, another prominent healthcare system, is also accessible from Ravenna. The **Cleveland Clinic Main Campus**, located roughly 50 miles northwest, is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The Cleveland Clinic Main Campus currently holds a **4-star CMS rating**. This high rating reflects its commitment to quality and patient care.

The Cleveland Clinic’s **Taussig Cancer Center** is renowned for its breast cancer program. The center offers a full range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options (including minimally invasive techniques), radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The Cleveland Clinic is known for its expertise in complex breast cancer cases and its research-driven approach to treatment. They have a robust breast cancer screening program and offer genetic counseling for patients at risk.

**Summa Health System:**

Summa Health, with its flagship hospital, **Summa Health Akron Campus**, is closer to Ravenna, approximately 25 miles west. Summa Health Akron Campus has a **3-star CMS rating**. While not as highly rated as the Cleveland Clinic, Summa Health offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including cancer care.

Summa Health's **Breast Care Center** provides screening, diagnosis, and treatment for breast cancer. They offer mammography, ultrasound, and other imaging services. Summa Health's cancer program includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The hospital is actively involved in community outreach and education programs focused on breast cancer awareness and prevention.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration, especially when dealing with potential complications or urgent needs related to cancer treatment. While specific wait times can fluctuate significantly, it's important to consider the average wait times reported by each hospital. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website provides some insights, although it's essential to remember that these are averages and individual experiences may vary.

**UH Cleveland Medical Center** and the **Cleveland Clinic Main Campus** generally have longer ER wait times than smaller community hospitals due to their high patient volume. **Summa Health Akron Campus** may have shorter wait times, but this can vary depending on the day and time. Checking real-time ER wait times on hospital websites or using third-party apps can provide more up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond general cancer care, specialized programs can significantly impact the quality of breast cancer treatment. Both the **Cleveland Clinic** and **UH Cleveland Medical Center** have robust programs for breast reconstruction, offering a variety of surgical options. These programs often involve plastic surgeons specializing in breast reconstruction.

The **Cleveland Clinic** is known for its advanced surgical techniques, including nipple-sparing mastectomies. Both systems offer supportive care services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, to help patients manage the side effects of treatment.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for cancer patients. It offers convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. Both **UH** and the **Cleveland Clinic** have invested heavily in telehealth platforms.

**UH** offers telehealth appointments for various specialties, including oncology. This allows patients to consult with their care team remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. **The Cleveland Clinic** also provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly helpful for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Summa Health** is also expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs. These programs can help patients manage their symptoms and stay connected with their care team.

**Access to Clinical Trials:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer research. The **Cleveland Clinic** and **UH Cleveland Medical Center** have active research programs and offer numerous clinical trials for breast cancer patients. These trials may involve new drugs, surgical techniques, or radiation therapy approaches. Patients should discuss their eligibility for clinical trials with their oncologist.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. CMS collects data on patient satisfaction through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. This survey asks patients about their experiences with various aspects of their care, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**UH Cleveland Medical Center** and the **Cleveland Clinic Main Campus** generally score well on patient satisfaction surveys, reflecting their commitment to patient-centered care. **Summa Health Akron Campus** also strives to provide a positive patient experience. Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews can provide additional insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:**

Navigating insurance coverage and understanding the financial implications of cancer treatment is essential. Patients should verify their insurance coverage with each hospital and inquire about financial assistance programs. The financial burden of cancer treatment can be significant, and hospitals often offer resources to help patients manage their costs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. For residents of Ravenna (44254), the **Cleveland Clinic Main Campus** and **UH Cleveland Medical Center** offer comprehensive breast cancer programs and are within a reasonable driving distance. **Summa Health Akron Campus** provides a closer option.

Consider factors such as CMS star ratings, specialized services, ER wait times, telehealth options, and patient experience when making your decision. Consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals from specialists to help you navigate the process. Remember to prioritize your needs and preferences when selecting a hospital and care team. This review provides a starting point; further research and consultation are essential for making an informed choice.