44313, Akron, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44313, Akron, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Akron, Ohio (ZIP Code 44313)**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. Near Akron, Ohio (ZIP code 44313), several healthcare providers offer a range of services. This review assesses key hospitals based on factors relevant to breast cancer patients, including quality ratings, specialized centers, and access to care.

**Understanding the Landscape: Akron's Healthcare System**

The Akron area is served by a mix of large health systems and smaller community hospitals. These institutions compete for patients, offering a variety of services and treatment options. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care depends on the hospital's resources, expertise, and commitment to this specific area of medicine.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general indication of quality. However, it's important to remember that these ratings are a snapshot and may not fully reflect the nuances of specialized care like breast cancer treatment.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** This hospital, part of the larger Cleveland Clinic system, is a prominent player in the Akron healthcare market. While the Cleveland Clinic system is renowned for its cancer care, the Akron General location's CMS star rating should be checked on the CMS website for the most current assessment. The hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center, which is a key indicator for breast cancer patients. The availability of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, is crucial for coordinated care.

**Summa Health System:** Summa Health System operates several hospitals in the Akron area. Their flagship hospital, Summa Health System – Akron Campus, is another major provider. CMS star ratings for this hospital should be checked on the CMS website. Summa Health has a dedicated cancer institute, offering a range of breast cancer services. The presence of a breast center, with specialized diagnostic and treatment capabilities, is a significant advantage.

**Other Hospitals to Consider**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other facilities may offer breast cancer services. These include smaller community hospitals and outpatient centers.

**Access to Care: ER Wait Times and Telehealth**

Access to timely care is crucial, especially in urgent situations. Emergency room wait times can be a significant factor.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online tools to get an estimate.

**Summa Health System:** Summa Health also has ERs, and their wait times should be checked on their website.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth services are increasingly important for accessing care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Both Cleveland Clinic and Summa Health offer telehealth options, but the availability and specific services may vary. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for breast cancer-related appointments, such as consultations with oncologists or breast surgeons.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

The presence of specialized centers and services is a key indicator of a hospital's commitment to breast cancer care.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** The Cleveland Clinic system is known for its specialized cancer centers. The Akron General location likely offers advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and access to clinical trials.

**Summa Health System:** Summa Health's cancer institute provides a range of breast cancer services. Patients should inquire about the availability of specific services, such as genetic counseling, breast reconstruction options, and support groups.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is critical. Hospitals should offer a full range of diagnostic capabilities.

**Mammography:** High-quality mammography services are essential. Hospitals should offer both screening and diagnostic mammograms. The availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) is a significant advantage.

**Ultrasound:** Breast ultrasound is used to further evaluate suspicious findings.

**MRI:** Breast MRI is often used for high-risk patients or to assess the extent of cancer.

**Biopsy:** Hospitals should offer various biopsy techniques, including core needle biopsy and stereotactic biopsy.

**Treatment Options**

Hospitals should offer a comprehensive range of treatment options.

**Surgery:** Breast surgeons perform lumpectomies, mastectomies, and other surgical procedures.

**Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

**Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells throughout the body.

**Hormone Therapy:** Hormone therapy is used to block the effects of hormones that can fuel breast cancer growth.

**Targeted Therapy:** Targeted therapies are drugs that target specific cancer cells.

**Support Services**

Support services are essential for patients' well-being.

**Patient Navigation:** Patient navigators help patients navigate the healthcare system.

**Support Groups:** Support groups provide emotional support and a sense of community.

**Rehabilitation Services:** Rehabilitation services help patients recover from treatment.

**Financial Assistance:** Financial assistance programs can help patients with the cost of care.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to the latest treatments.

**Specific Hospital Details**

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** This hospital likely has a dedicated breast center with a multidisciplinary team. Patients should confirm the availability of specific services, such as genetic counseling and breast reconstruction options. The hospital's affiliation with the Cleveland Clinic system provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

**Summa Health System:** Summa Health's cancer institute provides a range of breast cancer services. Patients should inquire about the availability of specific services, such as genetic counseling, breast reconstruction options, and support groups. The hospital's commitment to cancer care is evident in its dedicated institute.

**Outpatient Centers:** Several outpatient centers in the area may offer diagnostic services, such as mammograms and biopsies. Patients should inquire about the qualifications of the staff and the quality of the equipment.

**Additional Considerations**

**Physician Qualifications:** Patients should research the qualifications and experience of the physicians. Board certification is an important indicator of expertise.

**Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) indicates a commitment to quality care.

**Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can provide insights into patient experiences. However, it's important to consider the source and the context of the reviews.

**Insurance Coverage:** Patients should confirm that the hospital and physicians are in their insurance network.

**Making Your Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs and preferences. They should gather information from multiple sources, including their primary care physician, specialists, and online resources. They should visit the hospitals, ask questions, and make an informed decision.

**Conclusion**

The Akron, Ohio, area (ZIP code 44313) offers several options for breast cancer care. Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Health System are major players, with dedicated cancer centers and a range of services. Patients should research these and other hospitals, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, specialty centers, access to care, and physician qualifications. By carefully evaluating their options, patients can find the best possible care for their individual needs. Remember to always verify information directly with the hospitals, as services and ratings can change.