44691, Wooster, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44691, Wooster, Ohio is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care Near Wooster, Ohio: A Scorecard for 44691

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires clear information and access to quality care. For residents near Wooster, Ohio (ZIP code 44691), several hospitals offer comprehensive services. This review analyzes key factors, from CMS star ratings to specialized programs, to provide a snapshot of the available options.

**Defining the Landscape:**

The primary hospitals serving the 44691 area include Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital, and University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland. These facilities represent the core of available care, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. While smaller clinics and outpatient centers exist, this review focuses on the major players capable of providing comprehensive breast cancer treatment.

**Aultman Hospital: A Canton Cornerstone**

Aultman Hospital, located in Canton, Ohio, is a significant regional healthcare provider. As of November 2023, Aultman Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a facility's overall quality, based on measures like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. A 3-star rating indicates average performance.

Aultman's Breast Center offers a range of services, including diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, and breast MRI. They also provide stereotactic breast biopsy capabilities, a minimally invasive procedure used to obtain tissue samples. The hospital's cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, signifying adherence to high standards of care. Aultman's website highlights its multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery collaborating on patient care.

ER wait times at Aultman Hospital can fluctuate. While specific real-time data is difficult to obtain, general averages suggest that wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to check online resources or call ahead for the most current estimates.

**Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital: A Local Presence**

Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital, situated directly in Wooster, provides a convenient option for residents. While it's a smaller facility compared to Aultman, it offers a connection to the broader Cleveland Clinic network.

Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital does not have a CMS star rating of its own, as it is a smaller facility. However, it benefits from the resources and expertise of the Cleveland Clinic system. The hospital's breast care services include diagnostic imaging, surgical consultations, and access to medical oncology services. Patients may be referred to the main Cleveland Clinic campus for more specialized treatments or clinical trials.

ER wait times at Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital are generally shorter than those at larger facilities. However, it's still prudent to check online resources or call ahead for the most current estimates.

**University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center: Ashland's Option**

University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, Ohio, provides another option for patients in the region. The hospital is part of the University Hospitals system, which includes a large network of hospitals and specialists.

University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center also does not have a CMS star rating, as it is a smaller facility. The hospital offers diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, and surgical consultations. Patients may be referred to other University Hospitals facilities for more specialized care, including radiation oncology and advanced surgical procedures.

ER wait times at University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center are generally comparable to those at Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital, but it's still important to check online resources or call ahead for the most current estimates.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. All three hospitals offer some form of telehealth services.

Aultman Hospital provides telehealth options for certain appointments, including follow-up visits with oncologists and support services. Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital and University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center also offer telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their providers remotely. The availability of specific telehealth services can vary depending on the specialty and the provider. Patients should inquire with their physicians about available telehealth options.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Delving Deeper**

Beyond basic services, specialized programs and centers can significantly impact the quality of breast cancer care. Aultman Hospital’s cancer program accreditation is a key indicator of quality.

Cleveland Clinic, with its main campus in Cleveland, offers a renowned breast cancer center. This center provides access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a comprehensive range of services. Patients in the Wooster area may be referred to the Cleveland Clinic main campus for advanced care.

University Hospitals also has a strong breast cancer program, with a focus on multidisciplinary care and patient support. Patients can access a wide range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery.

**Specific Considerations: Patient Experience and Support**

Beyond clinical measures, patient experience and support services are crucial aspects of breast cancer care. All three hospitals offer patient navigators and support groups.

Patient navigators help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and offering emotional support. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Concern**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring immediate attention. While specific real-time data is difficult to obtain, it's important to consider these general guidelines:

* **Aultman Hospital:** Can experience longer wait times, potentially exceeding an hour during peak hours.
* **Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital:** Generally shorter wait times, often under an hour.
* **University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center:** Similar wait times to Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital, often under an hour.

It's always recommended to check online resources or call ahead to get the most current estimates.

**Clinical Trials and Research: Access to Innovation**

Access to clinical trials and research opportunities can be a significant advantage for patients. The Cleveland Clinic, with its main campus in Cleveland, is a leading research institution and offers numerous clinical trials for breast cancer. Aultman Hospital and University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center may offer access to clinical trials through collaborations with larger institutions.

**Reconstructive Surgery: Restoring Form and Function**

Reconstructive surgery is an important aspect of breast cancer treatment for many patients. All three hospitals offer reconstructive surgery services, either on-site or through referral to specialists.

**Making an Informed Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents near Wooster, Ohio (44691) have several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

* **Aultman Hospital:** Offers a comprehensive range of services, including cancer program accreditation.
* **Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital:** Provides convenient local access to the Cleveland Clinic system.
* **University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center:** Offers another option with access to the University Hospitals network.

When making a decision, patients should consider factors such as CMS star ratings, access to specialized programs, ER wait times, telehealth options, and the availability of support services. Consulting with a primary care physician or a breast cancer specialist is essential to develop a personalized treatment plan and choose the hospital that best meets individual needs.