15428, Dawson, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15428, Dawson, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Laurel Highlands: A Scorecard for ZIP Code 15428

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey can be overwhelming. For residents of ZIP code 15428 (Connellsville, PA, and surrounding areas), access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals and healthcare resources near this area, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of 15428 is primarily served by smaller community hospitals. However, residents also have access to larger regional medical centers within a reasonable driving distance. The focus here will be on the most relevant options, including their strengths and weaknesses.

**Excela Health System:**

Excela Health is a major player in the region, with several hospitals within reach of 15428. Excela Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant, PA, is one of the closest facilities. While not a designated comprehensive cancer center, Frick Hospital offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and chemotherapy.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Excela Frick Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, considering factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Frick Hospital provides breast cancer screening through mammography and offers surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy. Patients requiring more complex treatments, such as radiation therapy, would likely be referred to other Excela facilities or regional centers.
* **ER Wait Times:** The emergency room wait times at Frick Hospital can vary. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before arriving, especially during peak hours.
* **Telehealth:** Excela Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. This can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and certain types of consultations.

**UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center):**

UPMC, a nationally recognized healthcare system, offers more advanced cancer care options within driving distance of 15428. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside hospitals in Pittsburgh are the flagship facilities. These hospitals are known for their comprehensive cancer centers and specialized breast cancer programs.

* **UPMC Presbyterian:** This hospital is a major referral center for complex cancer cases. It is home to the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, a leading cancer research and treatment facility.
* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Presbyterian has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The Hillman Cancer Center provides a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging (MRI, PET scans), surgical oncology, radiation oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy), and reconstructive surgery. They also offer clinical trials and supportive care services, such as genetic counseling and survivorship programs.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at UPMC Presbyterian can be longer than at smaller hospitals, reflecting its role as a major trauma center and referral hub.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. This is particularly useful for follow-up visits and consultations.
* **UPMC Shadyside:** Located in Pittsburgh, UPMC Shadyside is another key player in the UPMC system.
* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Shadyside also holds a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Shadyside offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. It collaborates closely with the Hillman Cancer Center.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Shadyside are generally similar to those at Presbyterian.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC Shadyside also provides telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Distance and Travel Time:** The drive to Pittsburgh from 15428 can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on traffic and the specific location. This travel time should be factored into the decision-making process, particularly for frequent appointments.
* **Specialty Centers:** While Excela Frick offers basic services, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and UPMC Shadyside's programs are specifically designed for complex cancer cases. They offer access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary teams.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are important indicators of quality. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website provide patient feedback on hospitals and providers.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in-network with your insurance plan. This can significantly impact out-of-pocket costs.
* **Second Opinions:** Seeking a second opinion from a different oncologist or cancer center is always a good idea, especially after a diagnosis. This can help confirm the diagnosis and ensure you are receiving the most appropriate treatment plan.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling. These resources can be invaluable during the cancer journey.

**Specifics for Breast Cancer Care:**

* **Screening:** Mammography is the cornerstone of breast cancer screening. Both Excela Frick and UPMC facilities offer mammography services. UPMC facilities typically offer 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve detection rates.
* **Diagnosis:** If a suspicious finding is detected on a mammogram, further diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy, may be necessary. UPMC facilities have state-of-the-art imaging technology.
* **Surgery:** Surgical options for breast cancer include lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast). Both Excela and UPMC offer these procedures. UPMC hospitals offer advanced surgical techniques, such as nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy is often used after lumpectomy or mastectomy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. UPMC facilities have advanced radiation therapy equipment, including linear accelerators and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. UPMC hospitals have medical oncology departments that provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.
* **Hormone Therapy:** Hormone therapy is often used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. This therapy blocks the effects of estrogen or progesterone on cancer cells.
* **Targeted Therapy:** Targeted therapies are drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth. UPMC facilities offer access to a wide range of targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** UPMC's Hillman Cancer Center participates in numerous clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Telehealth Specifics:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. Both Excela Health and UPMC offer telehealth services for breast cancer patients. These services can include:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Appointments with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists via video conferencing.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Check-ups and monitoring after treatment.
* **Medication Management:** Discussions about medications and side effects.
* **Support Group Meetings:** Virtual support groups for patients and their families.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. It is essential to check current wait times before going to the ER. Both Excela and UPMC facilities provide online tools or phone numbers to check wait times.

**The Bottom Line:**

For residents of 15428, the choice of where to receive breast cancer care involves a balance of convenience, expertise, and access to advanced treatments. Excela Frick Hospital offers local access to basic services. UPMC, with its flagship hospitals in Pittsburgh, provides comprehensive cancer care, including access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise. The decision should be based on individual needs, the stage of the cancer, insurance coverage, and personal preferences. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and oncologists to determine the best course of action.