44685, Uniontown, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44685, Uniontown, Ohio is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44685

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to high-quality, comprehensive care is paramount. This review examines the hospitals near ZIP code 44685, focusing on factors critical to breast cancer treatment, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. While no single hospital is perfect, this analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the available resources and potential strengths of each institution.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The area surrounding ZIP code 44685, which encompasses areas like Wooster, Ohio, is served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity plays a significant role in treatment decisions, especially during times of crisis. The ability to quickly access care, whether for initial diagnosis, chemotherapy, or post-surgical follow-up, is crucial.

**Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital:**

Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital, a prominent player in the region, offers a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care. As part of the larger Cleveland Clinic system, it benefits from the expertise and resources of a nationally recognized healthcare network. While specific CMS star ratings for this particular hospital are not always publicly available, the Cleveland Clinic system consistently receives high marks for quality and patient safety.

The hospital's breast cancer program includes a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. This integrated approach is vital for providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. They offer advanced imaging technologies, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, to aid in early detection and accurate diagnosis.

ER wait times at Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital can vary, but the hospital strives to maintain efficient operations. Patients seeking emergency care should be aware that wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day and the volume of patients. Telehealth services are increasingly available, providing patients with convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital actively promotes telehealth to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):**

Located a reasonable driving distance from 44685, Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is another significant healthcare provider in the region. Aultman is known for its commitment to community health and offers a dedicated breast cancer program. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall performance, reflecting its quality of care, patient safety, and patient satisfaction. Aultman Hospital's CMS star rating is generally available and should be consulted for up-to-date information.

Aultman's breast cancer program includes a comprehensive range of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care. They offer advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. The hospital's multidisciplinary team collaborates to develop individualized treatment plans, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

ER wait times at Aultman Hospital are an important consideration for patients needing immediate care. While specific wait times fluctuate, patients can typically find real-time updates on the hospital's website or through online resources. Aultman has also invested in telehealth capabilities, allowing patients to access virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources from the comfort of their homes.

**University Hospitals (Various Locations):**

University Hospitals, another major healthcare system in Northeast Ohio, operates several hospitals within a reasonable distance of 44685. These hospitals, including UH Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, offer a range of breast cancer services. The CMS star ratings for individual UH hospitals can vary, so it's essential to check the specific ratings for each location.

UH hospitals typically offer comprehensive breast cancer programs, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Their breast cancer centers are often staffed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They provide access to advanced imaging technologies, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. UH hospitals often participate in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

ER wait times at UH hospitals can vary depending on the location and the time of day. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online resources to get real-time updates on wait times. UH has also expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with convenient access to virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources.

**Factors to Consider:**

Beyond the specific hospitals, several factors are crucial when choosing a breast cancer treatment center.

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC). Accreditation signifies a commitment to high-quality care and adherence to rigorous standards.
* **Specialized Centers:** Does the hospital have a dedicated breast center? These centers often offer a more coordinated and patient-centered approach to care.
* **Multidisciplinary Team:** A team approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, is essential for comprehensive care.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography and MRI, can improve early detection and diagnosis.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as counseling, support groups, and patient navigators.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Review patient satisfaction surveys and testimonials to get insights into the patient experience.

**Telehealth and its Growing Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in breast cancer care. It allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas, have mobility issues, or have difficulty traveling to appointments. Telehealth can also reduce the burden on patients and their families, saving time and travel costs. Hospitals in the region are actively expanding their telehealth offerings, providing patients with more convenient access to care.

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

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially during a crisis. While all hospitals strive to minimize wait times, they can fluctuate based on various factors. Patients needing emergency care should be aware of the potential for delays and should check the hospital's website or use online resources to get real-time updates on wait times.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near ZIP code 44685 offer a range of breast cancer services. Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital, Aultman Hospital, and University Hospitals are significant players in the region, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a treatment center. Factors such as CMS star ratings, specialized centers, multidisciplinary teams, advanced imaging, telehealth capabilities, and ER wait times should all be considered. By carefully evaluating these factors, patients can make informed decisions and access the high-quality, comprehensive care they deserve. Patients should always consult with their primary care physician and seek second opinions to make the best choice for their individual circumstances.