15427, Daisytown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15427, Daisytown, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near 15427

Finding the right care for a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. This review offers a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 15427 (Connellsville, PA), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer treatment. This information is intended to provide a starting point for your research and should be supplemented by consultations with medical professionals.

**Proximity and Accessibility:**

Connellsville, Pennsylvania, sits in a region with a mix of community hospitals and access to larger medical centers. Residents of 15427 will likely find themselves primarily served by facilities within a 30- to 60-mile radius, including those in Uniontown, Greensburg, and potentially Pittsburgh. Travel time and accessibility, especially for frequent appointments, are crucial considerations.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to hospitals based on quality and patient experience. While not a definitive measure, it offers a valuable benchmark.

* **UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh):** Approximately 50 miles from 15427, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a major academic medical center and a flagship of the UPMC system. As of the most recent data, it has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. This indicates above-average performance across various quality measures. It is important to note that CMS star ratings are based on a variety of factors, and a lower rating does not necessarily mean that a hospital is a bad choice for breast cancer treatment.
* **Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital (Greensburg):** Located roughly 30 miles from Connellsville, Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This indicates average performance.

It's important to check the most current CMS data, as ratings can fluctuate. Furthermore, consider that these ratings are broad and may not fully reflect the nuances of specific specialties like breast cancer care.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Specialized breast cancer centers offer comprehensive care, often including multidisciplinary teams of surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff.

* **UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** While not a single physical location, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a network of facilities, including locations at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and other hospitals in the region. This network provides access to advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and supportive services. They often have dedicated breast cancer programs.
* **Excela Health Cancer Centers:** Excela Health operates cancer centers at its various hospital locations, including Westmoreland Hospital. These centers typically offer a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

**Breast Cancer Specific Metrics:**

Beyond general hospital quality, look for metrics specifically related to breast cancer care:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) indicates adherence to high standards of care. Check if hospitals near 15427 hold these accreditations.
* **Surgical Volumes:** Hospitals that perform a high volume of breast cancer surgeries may have more experienced surgeons and better outcomes. While specific volume data is not always publicly available, you can inquire with the hospitals.
* **Multidisciplinary Team Approach:** A coordinated approach involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and other specialists is crucial for optimal care. Investigate the composition of the breast cancer teams at each hospital.
* **Genetic Counseling and Testing:** Access to genetic counseling and testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations is important for patients with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials for breast cancer at each facility.

**ER Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a practical consideration, especially if you experience complications during treatment. While ER wait times don't directly reflect breast cancer care quality, they can indicate overall hospital efficiency.

* **Data Sources:** Publicly available data on ER wait times can be found on websites like Hospital Compare (CMS) and some state health department websites. However, this data can be delayed and may not always reflect current conditions.
* **Regional Variations:** ER wait times vary by hospital and time of day. Expect longer waits at larger hospitals and during peak hours.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important for healthcare access, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

* **UPMC Telemedicine:** UPMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments for various specialties, including oncology. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live a distance from the hospital.
* **Excela Health Telehealth:** Excela Health also offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with specialists.
* **Considerations:** Evaluate the availability of telehealth options for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. Consider the ease of use of the telehealth platform and the availability of technical support.

**Support Services:**

Breast cancer treatment often requires significant emotional and practical support.

* **Support Groups:** Look for hospitals that offer support groups for patients and their families.
* **Patient Navigators:** Patient navigators help guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** Access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lymphedema therapy is important for recovery after surgery and treatment.

**Specific Hospital Profiles (Illustrative):**

* **UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside:** Offers a comprehensive breast cancer program within the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center network. Likely has access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary team. Telehealth options are available. Travel time from 15427 is approximately 1 hour.
* **Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital:** Provides breast cancer services at its cancer center. Might offer a more convenient location for residents of 15427. Consider the breadth of services and the availability of specialized support. Travel time is approximately 30-45 minutes.

**Financial Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospitals you are considering are in your insurance network.
* **Cost of Care:** Inquire about the estimated cost of treatment, including consultations, tests, surgery, and follow-up care.
* **Financial Assistance:** Explore the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who need help paying for care.

**Making Your Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following steps:

1. **Gather Information:** Research the hospitals near 15427, using the information provided in this review and other resources.
2. **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with your primary care physician. They can provide referrals to specialists and offer guidance.
3. **Schedule Consultations:** Schedule consultations with breast cancer specialists at the hospitals you are considering.
4. **Ask Questions:** Prepare a list of questions to ask the specialists, including questions about their experience, the treatment plan, and the support services available.
5. **Trust Your Instincts:** Choose the hospital and the care team that you feel most comfortable with and that best meets your individual needs.

**Disclaimer:** This review provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Data availability and hospital services can change, so verify information directly with the hospitals.