44402, Bristolville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44402, Bristolville, Ohio is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Youngstown Area: A Scorecard for 44402

Finding the right breast cancer care can be a daunting task. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 44402 (Austintown, Ohio) to provide a fact-based assessment of their capabilities, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. This information is intended to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**The Landscape of Care: A Look at the Key Players**

The Youngstown area, encompassing ZIP code 44402, is served by a network of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in the realm of breast cancer treatment. Two major players dominate the scene: Mercy Health and Steward Health. The following analysis will dissect their offerings, along with those of other relevant facilities.

**Mercy Health: A Systemic Approach**

Mercy Health has a significant presence in the region. Their flagship hospital, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, is a primary point of care for many residents of the 44402 area. St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating is not the highest possible, it still reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety, assessed across multiple categories.

St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. They have a dedicated breast center, providing a range of services from screening mammograms to advanced diagnostic imaging, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). They also offer breast ultrasound and breast MRI. The hospital’s breast center is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), a mark of quality indicating adherence to rigorous standards.

Mercy Health also provides surgical oncology services, including breast surgery. They have a team of surgeons specializing in breast cancer treatment, offering options such as lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel lymph node biopsy. They collaborate with medical oncologists and radiation oncologists to provide a multidisciplinary approach to care.

Regarding ER wait times, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital’s performance varies. Data indicates that wait times can fluctuate, so patients should be prepared for potential delays. The hospital’s website provides real-time wait time information, which is a valuable resource for patients.

Mercy Health also emphasizes telehealth. They offer virtual visits for certain appointments, including follow-up consultations and medication management. This can be particularly convenient for patients who live further away or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services varies depending on the specific physician and the type of appointment.

**Steward Health: Another Major Contender**

Steward Health operates Northside Regional Medical Center in Youngstown, another hospital serving the 44402 area. Northside Regional Medical Center currently has a 2-star rating from CMS.

Northside Regional Medical Center has a breast cancer program, providing diagnostic services and surgical options. They offer mammography, ultrasound, and breast biopsy services. They also have surgeons specializing in breast cancer surgery.

The hospital's ER wait times are a crucial factor for patients. Data indicates that wait times can be variable, so patients should be prepared for potential delays. The hospital's website provides real-time wait time information, which is a valuable resource.

Steward Health is expanding its telehealth offerings. Patients can access virtual consultations and follow-up appointments through their online portal. The availability of telehealth services varies depending on the specific physician and the type of appointment.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Outpatient Centers**

Beyond the major hospital systems, several other facilities play a role in breast cancer care in the area. These include outpatient imaging centers and specialized clinics.

Several outpatient imaging centers offer mammography and other breast imaging services. These centers often provide convenient scheduling and potentially shorter wait times for screening mammograms. Patients should verify the accreditation of these centers to ensure quality.

Specialized clinics, such as those focused on breast health, can provide a more focused approach to care. These clinics often have dedicated teams of specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

**The Importance of Accreditation and Certification**

Accreditation and certification are crucial indicators of quality in breast cancer care. The American College of Radiology (ACR) accredits breast imaging centers, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for equipment, personnel, and procedures. The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) offers accreditation to comprehensive breast centers, signifying a commitment to providing high-quality, multidisciplinary care. Patients should always inquire about the accreditation status of any facility they are considering.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant concern for patients. Long wait times can be stressful and can delay the initiation of treatment. Patients should check the real-time wait time information available on hospital websites before going to the ER.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, including breast cancer care. Virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management can provide convenient access to care, particularly for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. Patients should inquire about the telehealth options available at each facility.

**Specialty Centers and Multidisciplinary Care**

The best breast cancer programs offer a multidisciplinary approach, involving a team of specialists working together to provide comprehensive care. This team typically includes breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses. Patients should inquire about the availability of a multidisciplinary team at any facility they are considering.

**Specifics on Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy is a crucial component of breast cancer treatment for many patients. Patients should inquire about the availability of radiation oncology services at each hospital. This includes access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).

**Navigating the System: Patient Resources**

Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging. Patients should inquire about the availability of patient navigators or care coordinators at each facility. These individuals can help patients understand their diagnosis, coordinate appointments, and access support services.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of breast cancer care can be significant. Patients should inquire about the hospital's billing practices and insurance coverage. They should also explore financial assistance programs that may be available.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right breast cancer care facility is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and priorities. This review provides a starting point for evaluating the hospitals near ZIP code 44402. Patients should conduct their own research, ask questions, and consult with their primary care physician to make the best decision for their care. Remember to verify all information, as hospital offerings and ratings can change.