15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in and Around Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15714): A Scorecard

The quest for quality breast cancer care near Clymer, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15714) necessitates a thorough examination of available resources. This review delves into the landscape of hospitals, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-based assessment to aid informed decision-making for patients and their families.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

Clymer, a small town in Indiana County, finds itself in a region with a mix of rural and more developed healthcare options. While the immediate vicinity might lack large, comprehensive hospitals, several facilities within a reasonable driving distance offer breast cancer services. The focus will be on those hospitals that are likely to be the primary choices for residents of 15714, along with the closest major medical centers.

**Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC): A Local Hub**

Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located in Indiana, PA, is the closest full-service hospital to Clymer. IRMC is a crucial point of reference for residents of 15714. While IRMC does not have a dedicated, standalone “breast center” in the same vein as some larger hospitals, it offers a range of breast cancer services.

IRMC’s Breast Health Center provides diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI. The hospital also offers surgical oncology services, including breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) and mastectomy. Medical oncology and radiation oncology services are available through partnerships and affiliations.

IRMC's CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. As of the latest available data, IRMC's rating should be considered. The CMS star rating reflects a hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

ER wait times are another critical factor. Patients should expect to wait a reasonable amount of time for care. The average ER wait time at IRMC, should be researched. This information can be found on the hospital's website or through publicly available data sources.

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. IRMC likely offers some telehealth options, such as virtual visits with oncologists or breast surgeons. The specifics of these offerings, including the types of appointments available and the technology used, should be confirmed.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside: A Flagship Option (Distance Considerations)**

For more specialized care, residents of 15714 might consider UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh, PA. While a longer drive, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system, renowned for its comprehensive cancer care.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside 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, and support staff, all working collaboratively.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside's CMS star rating is consistently high. The hospital's commitment to quality is reflected in its performance on various metrics.

ER wait times at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It is advisable to check the most current ER wait times on the UPMC website.

Telehealth is a significant focus at UPMC, and the hospital offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living at a distance, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital: Women's Health Expertise (Distance Considerations)**

Another UPMC facility to consider is UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, also in Pittsburgh. Magee-Womens Hospital is a specialized hospital focused on women's health, including breast cancer.

Magee-Womens Hospital is equipped with a dedicated breast cancer center that provides a comprehensive range of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care. The hospital’s expertise in women's health can be an advantage for patients.

Magee-Womens Hospital's CMS star rating is a good indicator of its quality.

ER wait times at Magee-Womens Hospital should be researched on the UPMC website.

Telehealth is a core component of the services offered at Magee-Womens Hospital, providing patients with convenient access to care.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Centers**

Besides the larger hospitals, residents of 15714 might also find breast cancer services at smaller hospitals or outpatient centers. These facilities might offer mammography, diagnostic imaging, and some treatment options.

**Excela Health Latrobe Hospital:**

Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, located in Latrobe, PA, is another hospital that may be a consideration. It is a shorter drive than Pittsburgh hospitals. Excela Health Latrobe Hospital provides breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging and surgical oncology. The hospital's CMS star rating and ER wait times should be researched. Telehealth services are likely available.

**The Importance of Specialized Centers:**

The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center is a significant advantage. These centers typically offer:

* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** A team of specialists working together to create a personalized treatment plan.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Clinical Trials:** Opportunities to participate in clinical trials, potentially accessing cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can provide:

* **Convenient Access to Specialists:** Virtual consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists.
* **Reduced Travel:** Fewer trips to the hospital for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Remote Monitoring:** The ability to monitor patients' health remotely, allowing for early detection of potential problems.
* **Support Groups and Education:** Access to online support groups and educational resources.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times can be a significant concern for patients, especially those experiencing symptoms or complications. It is essential to know the average wait times at the hospitals you are considering.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality:**

CMS star ratings provide a valuable overview of a hospital's performance. These ratings are based on a variety of quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

**Specific Questions to Ask:**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer care, patients should ask specific questions, including:

* **What types of breast cancer services are offered?**
* **Does the hospital have a dedicated breast cancer center?**
* **What is the experience of the breast surgeons and oncologists?**
* **What advanced technologies are available?**
* **What support services are offered?**
* **What telehealth options are available?**
* **What is the hospital's CMS star rating?**
* **What are the average ER wait times?**

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Clymer, PA (15714) have several options for breast cancer care, ranging from local hospitals like IRMC to larger, more specialized centers in Pittsburgh, such as UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and Magee-Womens Hospital. IRMC is a crucial local resource. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and Magee-Womens offer comprehensive care, but require longer travel. Excela Health Latrobe Hospital is another option. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences, considering factors like proximity, the availability of specialized services, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities. Thorough research and informed decision-making are crucial for navigating the breast cancer care landscape.