15557, Rockwood, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15557, Rockwood, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Somerset County: A Scorecard for 15557

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a complex journey. This review analyzes the hospitals near ZIP code 15557 (Rockwood, Pennsylvania) to provide a factual overview of their breast cancer services, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, wait times, and specialized programs. This information aims to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The immediate vicinity of Rockwood (15557) is primarily served by hospitals in Somerset, Johnstown, and potentially, facilities further afield in Pittsburgh. While no hospitals are directly within the ZIP code, understanding the regional healthcare landscape is crucial. The primary players in this area are UPMC Somerset, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, and the larger UPMC system accessible from the region.

**UPMC Somerset: A Local Hub**

UPMC Somerset, located in Somerset, is the closest major hospital. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it provides essential services to a rural population. However, it's crucial to understand that critical access hospitals have different regulatory requirements than larger facilities. UPMC Somerset offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and surgical capabilities.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings, from one to five stars, offer a general indication of a hospital's performance. Currently, UPMC Somerset's CMS star rating is unavailable. This lack of a rating doesn't necessarily indicate poor care, but it does mean that publicly available data on its performance is limited. Patients should inquire directly about specific quality metrics.

**ER Wait Times: A Time-Sensitive Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, understanding the general trends is helpful. Information on ER wait times can often be found on hospital websites or through third-party platforms that aggregate this data. In the absence of real-time data, prospective patients should contact the hospital directly to inquire about average wait times.

**Diagnostic Imaging: The Foundation of Early Detection**

Early detection is key in breast cancer treatment. UPMC Somerset offers diagnostic imaging services, including mammography. Patients should confirm the availability of advanced imaging techniques like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and inquire about the qualifications of the radiologists interpreting the images.

**Surgical Options: A Spectrum of Care**

The surgical options available at a hospital are crucial. UPMC Somerset provides surgical services, including breast cancer surgery. Patients should investigate the types of breast cancer surgeries performed, the experience of the surgeons, and the availability of reconstructive surgery options.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Beyond Basic Care**

Specialty centers and programs can significantly enhance the quality of breast cancer care. These programs may offer multidisciplinary teams, specialized support services, and access to clinical trials. UPMC Somerset may have affiliations with larger UPMC cancer centers, which could provide access to these advanced resources.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and access to support groups. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer care at UPMC Somerset.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center: A Larger Regional Option**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown is another significant regional hospital. As a larger facility than UPMC Somerset, it often offers a broader range of services and specialists.

**CMS Star Rating: Evaluating Conemaugh**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center's CMS star rating is available. Patients should consult the CMS website for the most current rating, as it can change. The star rating provides a comparative benchmark for quality.

**ER Wait Times: Assessing Emergency Access**

ER wait times at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center should be investigated. As a larger facility, wait times may be different than at UPMC Somerset. Data on ER wait times is often available on the hospital's website or through third-party sources.

**Diagnostic Imaging: Advanced Technology**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center likely offers a more extensive range of diagnostic imaging services than UPMC Somerset. Patients should confirm the availability of 3D mammography, breast MRI, and other advanced imaging techniques.

**Surgical Options: A Wider Range of Expertise**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center typically offers a broader range of surgical options, including more specialized breast cancer surgeries and reconstructive procedures. Patients should research the surgeons' experience and the availability of specific surgical techniques.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Comprehensive Cancer Care**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center may have a dedicated cancer center or affiliation with a larger cancer network. This could provide access to multidisciplinary teams, specialized support services, and clinical trials.

**Telehealth: Connecting with Specialists**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center likely offers telehealth services for breast cancer patients. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.

**UPMC System: Accessing Broader Expertise**

The UPMC system, with facilities in Pittsburgh, offers access to a vast network of specialists and advanced cancer care. While a longer travel distance, it's a consideration for complex cases or patients seeking specific treatments.

**Accessing UPMC Pittsburgh:**

Patients near 15557 can access UPMC facilities in Pittsburgh, but this requires travel. This access provides patients with more options.

**CMS Star Ratings: UPMC’s Performance**

UPMC hospitals in Pittsburgh generally have strong CMS star ratings. Patients should consult the CMS website for the most current ratings of specific UPMC facilities.

**ER Wait Times: Navigating Large Facilities**

ER wait times at UPMC facilities in Pittsburgh can vary. Patients should check the hospital websites or third-party platforms for real-time or average wait time data.

**Diagnostic Imaging: State-of-the-Art Technology**

UPMC facilities in Pittsburgh offer state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, including advanced mammography techniques, breast MRI, and PET scans.

**Surgical Options: Comprehensive Surgical Capabilities**

UPMC hospitals in Pittsburgh offer a full spectrum of breast cancer surgical options, including complex procedures and reconstructive surgery.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Leading-Edge Care**

UPMC has a comprehensive cancer center, providing access to multidisciplinary teams, clinical trials, and cutting-edge treatments.

**Telehealth: Expanding Reach**

UPMC offers extensive telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Additional Considerations**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, patients should consider other factors. These include the availability of support groups, patient navigators, and access to financial assistance programs. Patients should also research the experience and qualifications of the surgeons and oncologists.

**Making an Informed Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of the available options near 15557. Patients should use this information as a starting point, conducting further research, asking questions, and consulting with their primary care physician to make the best choice for their individual needs. It is important to remember that this is a snapshot in time, and healthcare services can change. Always verify information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers.