15723, Chambersville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15723, Chambersville, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care Near Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15723): A Comprehensive Review

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to top-tier medical care. For residents of Clymer, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15723) and the surrounding areas, several hospitals offer comprehensive breast cancer services. This review delves into the key facilities, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and key performance indicators to help patients make informed decisions.

**Defining the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Clymer, a rural community in Indiana County, necessitates a focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This review will primarily concentrate on facilities within a 60-mile radius, encompassing both community hospitals and larger, regional medical centers. This geographic scope provides a realistic assessment of available care options.

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

Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located in Indiana, PA, is the closest major hospital to Clymer. IRMC offers a range of services, including a dedicated breast health center. While it doesn't boast a specific CMS star rating, IRMC is a vital resource for the local community. The hospital provides diagnostic imaging, including mammography and ultrasound, crucial for early detection and monitoring.

IRMC's breast health center offers a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care between radiologists, surgeons, and oncologists. While specific ER wait times are not readily available, the hospital generally serves a manageable patient volume, making it a convenient option for urgent needs. The hospital also provides some telehealth services, offering virtual consultations for certain specialties, though specific breast cancer telehealth statistics are not publicly available. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments for follow-up care and consultations.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh): A Regional Powerhouse**

Approximately 60 miles from Clymer, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh represents a significant escalation in care. This flagship hospital within the UPMC system is a nationally recognized center for cancer treatment. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside holds a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a commitment to quality and patient safety.

The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, located within UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, is a renowned facility specializing in breast cancer. It offers a comprehensive array of services, including advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography and MRI. The center's multidisciplinary teams consist of highly specialized breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons.

ER wait times at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside can vary, particularly during peak hours. Patients can access real-time wait time information via the UPMC website. The Hillman Cancer Center also offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure, providing convenient access to care for patients residing outside of Pittsburgh. Specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer patients are readily available on the UPMC website.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital (Pittsburgh): A Women's Health Specialist**

UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, also in Pittsburgh, is another UPMC facility within the 60-mile radius. As a dedicated women's hospital, Magee-Womens offers specialized breast cancer care. While it is part of the UPMC system, it has a separate identity. UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital holds a 4-star CMS rating, demonstrating a commitment to quality.

Magee-Womens Hospital features a dedicated breast health center with state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic capabilities. The hospital's breast cancer program provides comprehensive treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The hospital's multidisciplinary teams collaborate to create personalized treatment plans for each patient.

ER wait times at Magee-Womens Hospital are generally available on the UPMC website. The hospital also offers a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific telehealth statistics for breast cancer patients can be found on the UPMC website.

**Excela Health System: Westmoreland County Options**

Excela Health, a regional health system, offers several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. Excela Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg is approximately 50 miles from Clymer. Excela Latrobe Hospital in Latrobe is also an option.

Excela Health's hospitals provide breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, including mammography and ultrasound. They offer surgical and medical oncology services, providing a range of treatment options. While neither hospital has a specific CMS star rating, Excela Health is a major provider in the region.

ER wait times at Excela Health hospitals can vary. Patients should check the Excela Health website for real-time wait time information. The health system offers some telehealth services, including virtual consultations, but specific breast cancer telehealth statistics are not readily available.

**Comparing the Options: Key Considerations**

When selecting a breast cancer care provider, several factors should be considered. Proximity is a crucial factor, especially for frequent appointments and follow-up care. The availability of specialized services, such as advanced imaging and clinical trials, is also important. The expertise of the medical team, including the experience of the surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists, is paramount.

CMS star ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality and patient safety. However, it is essential to consider individual needs and preferences. Telehealth capabilities can be a significant advantage, especially for patients living in rural areas.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are an important practical consideration, especially during a health crisis. While the UPMC system generally provides real-time wait time information online, patients should confirm the latest data before heading to the ER. Smaller community hospitals, like IRMC, may have shorter wait times, but this can vary.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for cancer patients. UPMC's extensive telehealth program offers a significant advantage, providing convenient access to specialists and support services. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at their preferred hospital.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For residents of Clymer, PA (15723), several excellent breast cancer care options are available. IRMC provides convenient local care, while UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital offer specialized services and advanced technologies. Excela Health hospitals provide additional options in the region.

Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when selecting a provider. Researching the hospitals' websites, contacting the breast health centers, and consulting with their primary care physicians can help patients make informed decisions. The best approach is to gather information, ask questions, and choose the facility that best meets their specific needs and offers the highest level of care.