15104, Braddock, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15104, Braddock, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in and Around 15104: A Scorecard

The fight against breast cancer is a complex one, demanding access to cutting-edge treatments, experienced specialists, and compassionate care. For residents of the 15104 ZIP code, encompassing the areas of Allison Park, Hampton Township, and surrounding communities in Pennsylvania, several hospitals offer comprehensive breast cancer services. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of the leading contenders, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Highmark Allegheny Valley Hospital (Natrona Heights, PA): A Local Hub**

Highmark Allegheny Valley Hospital, located a short drive from 15104, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the area. While it doesn’t boast a dedicated, standalone breast cancer center, it provides essential services. The hospital’s overall CMS star rating is currently unavailable, but it's crucial to check the most recent data on the official CMS website.

Allegheny Valley Hospital offers breast cancer screening through its radiology department, including mammograms and potentially other advanced imaging techniques. The availability of these services locally is convenient for residents. However, individuals with complex cases may need to seek specialized care elsewhere.

ER wait times at Allegheny Valley Hospital are a key consideration. Information on current wait times can be found on websites like ER Wait Times or through the hospital's website. Shorter wait times are a significant advantage, especially in emergency situations or when prompt medical attention is needed.

Telehealth options are becoming increasingly important. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists at Allegheny Valley Hospital. Telehealth can provide convenience for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to expert advice.

**UPMC Passavant (McCandless, PA): A Strong Contender**

UPMC Passavant, situated in nearby McCandless, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. It's a UPMC facility, which generally indicates a commitment to quality and a network of specialized services. Passavant does not have a dedicated breast cancer center, but it offers comprehensive breast cancer services.

UPMC Passavant generally has a good reputation. However, it's essential to verify its current CMS star rating on the official CMS website. This rating provides a snapshot of the hospital's overall quality, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

The hospital's radiology department provides breast cancer screening, including mammograms, and potentially advanced imaging like breast MRI and ultrasound. Patients should confirm the availability of these specific modalities.

ER wait times at UPMC Passavant are another important factor. Information on current wait times can be found on websites like ER Wait Times or through the hospital's website. Shorter wait times are a significant advantage, especially in emergency situations or when prompt medical attention is needed.

Telehealth is increasingly integrated into healthcare delivery. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists at UPMC Passavant. Telehealth can provide convenience for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to expert advice.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA): A Regional Leader**

UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, located in Pittsburgh, is a regional powerhouse and a dedicated women's health facility. It's renowned for its comprehensive breast cancer program. Magee-Womens Hospital is a major referral center, drawing patients from a wide geographic area.

Magee-Womens Hospital is a high-performing hospital. It's essential to check its current CMS star rating on the official CMS website. This rating provides a snapshot of the hospital's overall quality, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

Magee-Womens Hospital boasts a dedicated breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients have access to a team of specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff. This coordinated approach is a major advantage.

The hospital provides a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging (including 3D mammography, breast MRI, and ultrasound), genetic counseling and testing, surgical options (including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The availability of clinical trials is particularly important, as it provides access to the latest advancements in cancer treatment.

ER wait times at Magee-Womens Hospital can be longer due to the hospital's high volume and specialized focus. Information on current wait times can be found on websites like ER Wait Times or through the hospital's website. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times and consider this when planning care.

Telehealth is integrated into Magee-Womens Hospital's services. Patients can inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. Telehealth can provide convenience for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to expert advice.

**West Penn Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA): Another Strong Option**

West Penn Hospital, also located in Pittsburgh, is another major healthcare provider in the region and a strong option for breast cancer care. It offers a comprehensive breast cancer program.

West Penn Hospital's CMS star rating should be verified on the official CMS website. This rating provides a snapshot of the hospital's overall quality, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

West Penn Hospital's breast cancer program provides a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists working together to provide coordinated care. This includes breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and support staff.

The hospital offers a wide range of services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging (including 3D mammography, breast MRI, and ultrasound), surgical options (including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The availability of clinical trials is particularly important, as it provides access to the latest advancements in cancer treatment.

ER wait times at West Penn Hospital can fluctuate. Information on current wait times can be found on websites like ER Wait Times or through the hospital's website. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times and consider this when planning care.

Telehealth is increasingly integrated into West Penn Hospital's services. Patients can inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. Telehealth can provide convenience for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to expert advice.

**Comparing the Options: A Summary**

For residents of the 15104 ZIP code, the choice of where to receive breast cancer care depends on individual needs and preferences. Highmark Allegheny Valley Hospital offers convenient local screening and basic services. UPMC Passavant provides a good option with access to the UPMC network. UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital and West Penn Hospital, both in Pittsburgh, offer comprehensive, specialized care with dedicated breast cancer centers and a multidisciplinary approach.

Patients should consider the following factors when making their decision:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Check the most recent ratings on the official CMS website to assess overall hospital quality.
* **Specialized Services:** Determine the availability of the specific services needed, such as advanced imaging, genetic counseling, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Look for hospitals with dedicated breast cancer centers and a team of specialists working together.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times, especially if prompt medical attention is needed.
* **Telehealth Options:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations for convenience and access to expert advice.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital and ease of access.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists are in-network with your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care and patient experience.

By carefully evaluating these factors, residents of the 15104 ZIP code can make informed decisions about their breast cancer care, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment and support. Remember to always consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to specialists as needed.