Breast Cancer Score

15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

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Health Scores

Hospital Score in 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania

Breast Cancer Score 71
People Score 24
Provider Score 85
Hospital Score 62
Travel Score 51

Hospital Score Review of 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near ZIP Code 15563

Finding the right breast cancer care is a complex undertaking. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 15563 (Somerset, Pennsylvania) and provides a fact-rich overview to help navigate the landscape of available services. We'll examine key factors, including hospital quality, specialty centers, and access to care, to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Residents of Somerset County, Pennsylvania, are primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. While the immediate vicinity might offer smaller community hospitals, more comprehensive care often necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers. This review will consider hospitals within a 60- to 90-minute radius, acknowledging the importance of accessibility for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Hospital Quality: CMS Star Ratings and Beyond**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings offer a valuable, albeit simplified, measure of hospital quality. These ratings, based on a variety of metrics, provide a quick snapshot of overall performance. However, it's crucial to delve deeper than just the star rating.

**UPMC Somerset:** Located directly within the 15563 ZIP code, UPMC Somerset is a critical access hospital. As a smaller facility, it may offer basic breast cancer screening and initial diagnosis services. However, complex cases or advanced treatments often necessitate transfer to a larger UPMC facility. UPMC Somerset currently does not have a CMS star rating.

**UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside (Pittsburgh):** Approximately a 90-minute drive, UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside represents a flagship hospital within the UPMC system. This hospital consistently receives high marks for its cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. It is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a significant indicator of research, innovation, and comprehensive care. UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

**AHN Forbes Hospital (Monroeville):** Approximately a 75-minute drive, AHN Forbes Hospital is part of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN). AHN Forbes Hospital has a strong reputation for cancer care and offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. AHN Forbes Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

**ER Wait Times: A Gauge of Access**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial indicator of a hospital's capacity and efficiency. While not directly related to breast cancer care, longer wait times can signal potential delays in other areas, including diagnostic imaging and consultations.

**UPMC Somerset:** Being a smaller facility, ER wait times at UPMC Somerset may vary. However, it's important to note that they are often dependent on the volume of patients and the availability of staff.

**UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside:** As a large, tertiary care center, UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside can experience longer ER wait times, particularly during peak hours. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting.

**AHN Forbes Hospital:** AHN Forbes Hospital, being a large facility, can experience fluctuating ER wait times. Checking online resources or calling ahead is recommended.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise and Innovation**

Specialty centers are dedicated to specific types of cancer and often offer cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** This is the flagship cancer center within the UPMC system, serving as a hub for advanced cancer care, including breast cancer. The Hillman Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive treatment plans.

**AHN Cancer Institute:** The AHN Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care, including specialized breast cancer services. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. It allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

**UPMC:** UPMC has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments for a variety of specialties, including oncology. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

**AHN:** AHN also offers telehealth services, providing patients with access to virtual consultations and follow-up care. The availability of telehealth options can vary depending on the specific physician and the type of appointment.

**Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostics**

Early detection is crucial in breast cancer treatment. Access to screening mammography and advanced diagnostic imaging is essential.

**UPMC Somerset:** Offers mammography services.

**UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside:** Provides a full range of diagnostic imaging services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, and MRI.

**AHN Forbes Hospital:** Offers comprehensive breast imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**Treatment Options: A Multidisciplinary Approach**

Breast cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

**UPMC:** Offers a full spectrum of treatment options, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They participate in numerous clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments.

**AHN:** Provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment, with a team of specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

**Patient Support Services: Navigating the Journey**

Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Access to support services, such as counseling, support groups, and patient navigators, is essential.

**UPMC:** Offers a variety of support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and resources for financial assistance.

**AHN:** Provides patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients navigate their cancer journey.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovation**

Clinical trials offer access to the latest treatments and research advancements.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** Actively participates in numerous clinical trials, providing patients with access to innovative therapies.

**AHN Cancer Institute:** Offers opportunities to participate in clinical trials, allowing patients to benefit from cutting-edge research.

**Financial Considerations: Insurance and Costs**

The cost of breast cancer treatment can be significant. It's essential to understand your insurance coverage and explore financial assistance options.

**UPMC and AHN:** Both systems accept a wide range of insurance plans. They also offer financial counseling and assistance programs to help patients manage the costs of care.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Summary**

**UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside:** This hospital scores highly due to its affiliation with the NCI-designated UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, its 4-star CMS rating, and its comprehensive range of services. However, the longer travel time and potential for longer ER wait times are factors to consider.

**AHN Forbes Hospital:** Offers a strong breast cancer program and a good reputation. The 3-star CMS rating is a positive indicator. The slightly shorter travel time compared to UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside is an advantage.

**UPMC Somerset:** While conveniently located, UPMC Somerset's smaller size and lack of a CMS star rating suggest that patients may need to travel to other UPMC facilities for more specialized care.

**Recommendations for Patients near 15563:**

* **For comprehensive care and access to clinical trials:** Consider UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside or AHN Forbes Hospital.
* **For convenience and initial screening:** UPMC Somerset may be suitable for initial screening and diagnosis, but follow-up care may require travel.
* **Research and Preparation:** Before choosing a hospital, research the specific breast cancer specialists, treatment options, and support services available. Prepare questions to ask during consultations and bring a support person to appointments.
* **Insurance Verification:** Confirm your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket costs with the hospital and your insurance provider.
* **Telehealth Utilization:** Leverage telehealth options for follow-up appointments and consultations to minimize travel and maximize convenience.

This review provides a starting point for navigating the breast cancer care landscape near ZIP code 15563. Patients should consult with their primary care physician and seek personalized recommendations based on their individual needs and circumstances.

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Health Scores Near 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania

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