44718, Canton, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44718, Canton, Ohio is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care Near Canton, Ohio: A Scorecard for 44718

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal and critical decision. For residents of the Canton, Ohio area, specifically those residing near ZIP code 44718, several hospitals offer comprehensive services. This review provides a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics to help patients navigate their options. It's important to remember that this is not a substitute for medical advice and patients should always consult with their physicians.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Ratings**

The immediate vicinity of 44718 is served by a network of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Two institutions stand out as major players: Aultman Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital. These hospitals, alongside others in the region, offer varying levels of breast cancer care, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and support services.

**Aultman Hospital: A Canton Cornerstone**

Aultman Hospital, located in Canton, Ohio, is a prominent healthcare provider for the region. Aultman is a large hospital with a comprehensive cancer center. The hospital’s performance is reflected in its publicly available ratings. Aultman Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Aultman’s Breast Center provides a range of services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and surgical options. The hospital has a dedicated team of breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. Aultman also offers genetic counseling for patients with a family history of breast cancer. The hospital is actively involved in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatment options.

**Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital: A Regional Presence**

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, also located in Canton, is part of the larger Cleveland Clinic health system. This affiliation provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources. Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating indicates a similar level of overall quality to Aultman, though the specific metrics contributing to the score may vary.

Mercy Hospital’s Breast Center offers a similar array of services to Aultman, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The hospital emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together various specialists to create individualized treatment plans. Mercy Hospital has a strong reputation for its surgical expertise and its commitment to patient-centered care. The hospital also offers support groups and educational programs for patients and their families.

**Emergency Room Considerations: Wait Times and Efficiency**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant factor for patients, especially during a health crisis. While not directly related to breast cancer care, ER efficiency can reflect a hospital's overall operational effectiveness. Data on ER wait times is often publicly available, though it can fluctuate.

Aultman Hospital typically reports ER wait times that are in line with the national average. Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital also strives to maintain reasonable wait times, though these can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should check the most recent data on hospital websites or through online resources to get the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Technologies**

Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital have invested in advanced technologies for breast cancer detection and treatment. These technologies can include 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the accuracy of screening, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The availability of these technologies is a key consideration when choosing a hospital.

Beyond technology, specialty centers often offer a more focused and coordinated approach to care. These centers bring together a team of experts who specialize in breast cancer treatment. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital have dedicated breast centers. These centers offer a range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital offer telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or who have mobility issues.

The availability of telehealth services varies by specialty and by insurance coverage. Patients should check with their insurance provider and their physician to determine if telehealth is an option for their specific needs.

**Surgical Options and Expertise**

The surgical expertise available at a hospital is a critical factor in breast cancer care. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital have experienced breast surgeons who perform a range of procedures, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive surgery.

The specific surgical techniques offered can vary. Patients should discuss their surgical options with their surgeon to determine the best approach for their individual needs. The experience and training of the surgical team are also important considerations.

**Radiation Oncology: Precision and Innovation**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital have radiation oncology departments that offer a range of treatment options, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), can improve treatment outcomes and reduce side effects. Patients should discuss their radiation therapy options with their radiation oncologist to determine the best approach for their individual needs.

**Medical Oncology: Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies**

Medical oncologists play a critical role in the treatment of breast cancer, prescribing chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital have medical oncology departments that offer comprehensive cancer care.

The availability of clinical trials is an important consideration for patients. Clinical trials provide access to cutting-edge treatment options that may not be available elsewhere. Patients should discuss their eligibility for clinical trials with their medical oncologist.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital offer a range of support services to help patients cope with their diagnosis and treatment. These services can include:

* **Support groups:** Providing a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others.
* **Counseling services:** Offering individual and group therapy to help patients manage their emotions and cope with stress.
* **Nutrition counseling:** Providing guidance on healthy eating habits to support recovery.
* **Physical therapy:** Helping patients regain strength and mobility after surgery or other treatments.
* **Financial counseling:** Assisting patients with navigating the financial aspects of cancer care.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare. Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by a hospital. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital participate in patient satisfaction surveys, such as the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey.

The results of these surveys are publicly available and can provide patients with valuable information about the experiences of other patients. Patients should also consider reading online reviews and talking to other patients to get a better understanding of the hospital's reputation.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

The cost of breast cancer care can be substantial. Patients should understand their insurance coverage and the potential out-of-pocket expenses. Both Aultman and Mercy Hospital accept a wide range of insurance plans. Patients should contact their insurance provider to verify coverage and to understand their financial responsibilities.

Both hospitals also offer financial assistance programs for patients who are unable to afford the cost of care. Patients should inquire about these programs at the hospital's financial counseling department.

**The Verdict: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a complex decision. For residents near 44718, Aultman Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital offer comprehensive services. Both hospitals have dedicated breast centers, experienced medical professionals, and access to advanced technologies. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when making their choice. This review provides a framework for understanding the key factors to consider, but it is essential to consult with a physician to make the best decision for their health.