44663, New Philadelphia, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44663, New Philadelphia, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44663

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized resources and experienced team, is a crucial first step. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 44663, offering a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. We'll examine key factors like hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options, providing a clear picture of available care.

**The Landscape of Care: Proximity and Options**

ZIP code 44663, encompassing the city of Salem, Ohio, places residents within a reasonable radius of several hospitals. The most prominent options include those in Salem itself, as well as facilities in nearby cities like Youngstown and Canton. Proximity is a key consideration, especially during frequent appointments and treatments.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a general indication of hospital quality. While not the sole determinant, these ratings provide a valuable starting point.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Located approximately 30 miles from Salem, Aultman Hospital is a major regional player. It boasts a comprehensive breast cancer program, including a dedicated breast center. Aultman’s CMS star rating should be checked on the CMS website as it fluctuates. The hospital's reputation often includes its advanced imaging capabilities, including 3D mammography, and its focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques. Aultman's cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Youngstown, OH):** Situated roughly 35 miles from Salem, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is part of the Mercy Health system. Its cancer program offers a broad range of services, from diagnosis and staging to treatment and supportive care. Like Aultman, its CMS star rating should be verified on the CMS website. The hospital's breast cancer program typically features access to clinical trials and a strong emphasis on patient education and support services.

**Salem Regional Medical Center (Salem, OH):** Salem Regional Medical Center is the closest hospital to ZIP code 44663. Check the CMS website for its current star rating. As a community hospital, Salem Regional provides essential services, including breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging. While it may not have the extensive specialized resources of larger hospitals, it offers convenient access for residents of Salem and surrounding areas. It often collaborates with larger hospitals for more complex cases, ensuring patients receive the appropriate level of care.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, particularly during a crisis. While wait times fluctuate, understanding the typical range provides valuable insight. Data on ER wait times can often be found on hospital websites or through third-party sources like Healthgrades or U.S. News & World Report. These sources may provide average wait times, allowing patients to assess the potential time commitment. Be aware that these are averages and can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Dedicated Programs**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized breast centers and dedicated programs are crucial for comprehensive care. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists under one roof.

**Aultman Cancer Center:** Aultman's cancer center is a significant resource for breast cancer patients. It typically offers a comprehensive range of services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. They often feature dedicated breast surgeons, medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer, and access to clinical trials.

**Mercy Health Cancer Centers (St. Elizabeth Youngstown):** Mercy Health's cancer centers, including the one at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, typically offer a similar range of services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. These centers often emphasize patient-centered care and provide access to support groups and educational resources.

**Salem Regional Medical Center:** While smaller than the other two, Salem Regional Medical Center often has a dedicated breast health program that offers screening, diagnostic imaging, and potentially some surgical services. They often collaborate with larger hospitals for more complex cases, ensuring patients receive the necessary specialized care.

**Telehealth and Remote Care Options**

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

**Aultman and Mercy Health:** Both Aultman and Mercy Health typically offer telehealth options for cancer patients. These may include virtual consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and access to support groups and educational resources. Check their websites for specific telehealth services.

**Salem Regional Medical Center:** Salem Regional may also offer telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists. Contact the hospital directly to inquire about their telehealth capabilities.

**Specific Treatment Modalities and Technologies**

The availability of advanced treatment modalities and technologies is a key factor in assessing a hospital's capabilities.

**Aultman:** Aultman often offers advanced imaging techniques, including 3D mammography and MRI, for early detection and diagnosis. They typically have access to advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures, and radiation therapy options.

**Mercy Health:** Mercy Health often provides similar advanced imaging and treatment options. They often feature access to clinical trials and innovative therapies.

**Salem Regional Medical Center:** Salem Regional offers standard imaging and surgical options. They may collaborate with larger hospitals for access to more specialized treatments.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Breast cancer treatment is not just about medical procedures; it's about holistic care. Support services play a crucial role in patient well-being.

**Aultman and Mercy Health:** Both hospitals typically offer comprehensive support services, including:

* **Patient navigators:** To guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system.
* **Support groups:** To connect patients with others facing similar challenges.
* **Counseling services:** To address emotional and psychological needs.
* **Nutritional counseling:** To support healthy eating habits.
* **Physical therapy:** To aid in recovery and manage side effects.
* **Financial assistance programs:** To help with the costs of treatment.

**Salem Regional Medical Center:** Salem Regional may offer some of these support services, but the scope may be more limited.

**Research and Clinical Trials**

Access to clinical trials is crucial for patients seeking innovative treatments.

**Aultman and Mercy Health:** These larger hospitals often participate in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge therapies.

**Salem Regional Medical Center:** Salem Regional may have limited access to clinical trials, but they may refer patients to larger hospitals for participation.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations**

Before choosing a hospital, patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand the potential out-of-pocket expenses. Contact the hospital's billing department and your insurance provider to clarify coverage details.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of the hospitals near ZIP code 44663. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their choice. It is recommended to:

* **Research each hospital's website:** For detailed information on services, physicians, and patient testimonials.
* **Contact the hospitals directly:** To ask specific questions about their breast cancer programs.
* **Talk to your primary care physician:** For recommendations and referrals.
* **Consider patient reviews and testimonials:** From reliable sources.
* **Visit the hospitals, if possible:** To assess the environment and meet with staff.

By carefully considering these factors, patients can make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best meets their needs during this challenging time. Remember to always consult with your healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.