The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44695, Bowerston, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
Health Scores in 44695, Bowerston, Ohio
Breast Cancer Score | 51 |
---|---|
People Score | 81 |
Provider Score | 24 |
Hospital Score | 49 |
Travel Score | 40 |
## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Near Wooster, OH (ZIP Code 44695)
Finding the right breast cancer care can feel overwhelming. This review analyzes hospitals near Wooster, Ohio (ZIP code 44695), focusing on key factors like quality metrics, specialized services, and accessibility, to help you make informed decisions. We delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each institution, providing a fact-rich overview to guide your search.
**Proximity Matters: The Local Landscape**
Wooster, Ohio, is a community that relies on regional healthcare providers. While the immediate area might not boast a plethora of major medical centers, several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer comprehensive breast cancer services. The following analysis considers institutions within a 50-mile radius, acknowledging that travel time is a crucial consideration for patients.
**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH): A Regional Powerhouse**
Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a significant player in the region's healthcare landscape. It's approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Wooster. Aultman is a large, integrated health system, offering a full spectrum of cancer care.
Aultman's breast cancer program is a key component of its overall cancer services. They have a dedicated Breast Cancer Center, which provides a multidisciplinary approach. This typically involves a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and oncology nurses, all working collaboratively.
**Quality Metrics & Accreditation:**
Aultman Hospital is accredited by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC). This accreditation signifies that the hospital meets rigorous standards for cancer care, including comprehensive services, research, and patient outcomes. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it's important to check the most current data on the CMS website. Aultman generally performs well in areas like patient safety and readmission rates, which are indicators of quality care.
**Specialized Services:**
Aultman offers a range of specialized services for breast cancer patients. These include:
* **Surgical Options:** Aultman provides various surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy (with options for nipple-sparing procedures), and sentinel lymph node biopsy.
* **Medical Oncology:** The hospital has a robust medical oncology department, offering chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy services are available, including external beam radiation and potentially advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
* **Reconstructive Surgery:** Aultman collaborates with plastic surgeons to offer breast reconstruction options following mastectomy.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Genetic counseling services are available to assess a patient's risk of developing breast cancer and to guide decisions about genetic testing.
* **Support Services:** Aultman provides support services such as oncology social work, nutrition counseling, and support groups.
**Accessibility:**
Aultman's location in Canton makes it accessible to residents of Wooster. However, traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours. ER wait times at Aultman should be checked on the hospital's website or through online resources like the ER Wait Times app.
**Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH): A National Leader**
The Cleveland Clinic, a world-renowned medical center, is a more significant drive, roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Wooster. While the distance is considerable, the Cleveland Clinic's reputation for excellence in cancer care makes it a compelling option for some patients.
**Quality Metrics & Accreditation:**
The Cleveland Clinic consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation for cancer care. It is accredited by the ACS CoC and holds a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. The Cleveland Clinic's cancer programs are known for their research and innovation.
**Specialized Services:**
The Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center is a comprehensive cancer center. Their breast cancer program offers a broad range of services, including:
* **Cutting-Edge Surgical Techniques:** The Cleveland Clinic's surgeons are at the forefront of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures and complex reconstructive options.
* **Advanced Medical Oncology:** The hospital offers the latest chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies. They also participate in numerous clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **State-of-the-Art Radiation Oncology:** The Cleveland Clinic utilizes advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as proton therapy, to minimize side effects and improve outcomes.
* **Genetic Testing and Counseling:** The hospital provides comprehensive genetic testing and counseling services.
* **Psychosocial Support:** The Cleveland Clinic offers robust psychosocial support services, including mental health counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.
* **Integrative Medicine:** The hospital offers integrative medicine services, such as acupuncture and massage therapy, to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
**Accessibility:**
The Cleveland Clinic's location in Cleveland presents a greater challenge in terms of travel time. However, the hospital has multiple locations and offers telehealth services, which can improve access to care. ER wait times at the Cleveland Clinic should be checked online or through their website.
**University Hospitals (Cleveland, OH): A Strong Contender**
University Hospitals (UH) is another major healthcare system in Cleveland, offering a comprehensive cancer program. The drive from Wooster to UH facilities is similar to the Cleveland Clinic, around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
**Quality Metrics & Accreditation:**
UH's Seidman Cancer Center is a well-regarded cancer center. It is accredited by the ACS CoC and generally receives good ratings in patient safety and quality metrics.
**Specialized Services:**
UH offers a full range of breast cancer services, including:
* **Surgical Options:** UH provides a variety of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** The hospital offers chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** UH utilizes advanced radiation therapy techniques.
* **Clinical Trials:** UH participates in numerous clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest treatments.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Genetic counseling services are available.
* **Support Services:** UH provides a range of support services, including oncology social work, nutrition counseling, and support groups.
**Accessibility:**
UH has multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout the Cleveland area, potentially offering more convenient access for some patients. Telehealth services are also available. ER wait times should be verified online or through the hospital.
**Wooster Community Hospital (Wooster, OH): Local Options**
While not a major cancer center, Wooster Community Hospital, located in Wooster, provides some breast cancer services. This local option offers the convenience of proximity.
**Quality Metrics & Accreditation:**
Wooster Community Hospital is accredited by the ACS CoC. The hospital generally has good ratings for patient satisfaction and quality of care.
**Specialized Services:**
Wooster Community Hospital offers:
* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Mammograms and other diagnostic imaging services are available.
* **Surgical Services:** Limited surgical options, such as lumpectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy, may be available.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncology services may be provided through visiting specialists or partnerships with larger cancer centers.
* **Support Services:** Support services, such as oncology social work, may be available.
**Accessibility:**
Wooster Community Hospital is highly accessible to residents of Wooster. ER wait times are typically shorter than at larger hospitals.
**Telehealth Considerations:**
Telehealth is increasingly playing a role in cancer care. Hospitals in the region, including the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and Aultman Hospital, offer telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from major medical centers or have mobility limitations.
**Making Your Decision:**
Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider these factors:
* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel?
* **Specialized Services:** Do you need access to advanced treatments or clinical trials?
* **Quality Metrics:** What are the hospital's ratings for patient safety and outcomes?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance?
* **Personal Preferences:** Do you prefer a large, comprehensive cancer center or a smaller, more local hospital?
Researching the hospitals in your area, consulting with your primary care physician, and seeking second opinions are essential steps in making the best choice for your care. This review provides a starting point for your research. Always verify the most current information on hospital websites and through the CMS website.
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