44418, Fowler, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44418, Fowler, Ohio is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Heart of Ohio: A Review for ZIP Code 44418

Finding the right breast cancer care can be overwhelming. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 44418 (Cortland, Ohio) to provide a factual overview, helping you navigate the healthcare landscape. We'll examine key factors like hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options, offering a snapshot of what's available in the region.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. These ratings offer a general indication of a hospital's performance. While not the sole determinant of quality, they provide a valuable starting point.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** Located approximately 20 miles from 44418, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is a major regional player. As of late 2023, its CMS star rating was a respectable, though not top-tier, 3 stars. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is part of the Mercy Health system, a large network that can offer streamlined care pathways.

**Cleveland Clinic Main Campus:** Although further afield (approximately 70 miles), the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus is a nationally recognized institution, consistently ranked among the best hospitals in the United States. Its Breast Cancer Program is highly regarded. The Cleveland Clinic typically earns a 4- or 5-star CMS rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. However, the distance necessitates careful consideration of travel time and logistical factors.

**University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center:** Another option within the Cleveland area, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, is a prominent cancer treatment facility. Its CMS star rating is generally in the 3- to 4-star range. The Seidman Cancer Center offers a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant factor, particularly in urgent situations. Unfortunately, obtaining real-time, consistently updated wait time data for specific hospitals is challenging. However, several online resources provide estimates. Websites like Google and Healthgrades often display estimated wait times, but these figures should be treated as approximations.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** Data suggests that ER wait times at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital can vary, often fluctuating based on the time of day and day of the week. Generally, wait times are in line with the national average, but it's always advisable to call ahead or check online resources for the most current information.

**Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals:** Due to their larger size and higher patient volume, ER wait times at the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals may be longer than at smaller facilities. However, these hospitals also have the resources to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise:**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a key indicator of a hospital's commitment to comprehensive care. These centers often offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced technologies, and clinical trials.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital has a dedicated breast care center that provides a range of services, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, and surgical options. The center's focus is on early detection and personalized treatment plans.

**Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Program:** The Cleveland Clinic's Breast Cancer Program is a nationally recognized center of excellence. It boasts a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers. The program offers access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

**University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center:** The Seidman Cancer Center also features a robust breast cancer program. It offers a comprehensive approach to care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care Options:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** Mercy Health, the parent organization of St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, has expanded its telehealth offerings. Patients can access virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. The availability of specific telehealth services for breast cancer patients may vary.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic is a leader in telehealth. It provides a wide range of virtual care options, including virtual visits with specialists, remote monitoring programs, and online support groups. Telehealth can be particularly valuable for patients who live far from the main campus.

**University Hospitals:** University Hospitals also offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring. The availability of specific services for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Technology:**

Access to advanced diagnostic imaging is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging of breast cancer.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital offers a range of imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The hospital is equipped with modern imaging technology.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic invests heavily in advanced imaging technology, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), MRI, and PET scans. This allows for more accurate and detailed imaging, leading to earlier detection and more precise treatment planning.

**University Hospitals:** University Hospitals also utilizes advanced imaging technologies for breast cancer diagnosis and staging.

**Surgical Options and Treatment Approaches:**

The availability of various surgical options and treatment approaches is essential.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital offers a range of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. The hospital's surgical team is experienced in treating breast cancer.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic offers a comprehensive range of surgical options, including minimally invasive techniques, breast-conserving surgery, and advanced reconstructive procedures. The hospital's surgeons are highly skilled and experienced.

**University Hospitals:** University Hospitals provides a full spectrum of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. The hospital's surgical team is dedicated to providing the best possible outcomes for patients.

**Patient Support and Resources:**

Comprehensive patient support services are crucial for navigating the challenges of breast cancer.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital offers patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources. The hospital is committed to providing comprehensive support to patients and their families.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic has a robust patient support system, including patient navigators, support groups, counseling services, and educational programs. The hospital also offers resources for financial assistance and other support services.

**University Hospitals:** University Hospitals provides patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources. The hospital is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to patients and their families.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic is actively involved in breast cancer research and offers a wide range of clinical trials. Patients have the opportunity to participate in research studies and access innovative therapies.

**University Hospitals:** University Hospitals also participates in breast cancer research and offers clinical trials.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital may offer access to clinical trials through partnerships or collaborations with other institutions.

**Considerations for 44418 Residents:**

Residents of 44418 should consider several factors when choosing a hospital for breast cancer care:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital is a key consideration, especially for frequent appointments and treatments.
* **Specialization:** The availability of a dedicated breast cancer center and experienced specialists is crucial.
* **Technology:** Access to advanced imaging and treatment technologies can improve outcomes.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive patient support services can make a significant difference in the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of the options near 44418, including key hospitals, their ratings, and the services they offer. By carefully considering these factors and consulting with your physician, you can make an informed decision that best meets your individual needs. Remember to always verify information directly with the hospitals and consult with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.