16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16124, Fredonia, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near ZIP Code 16124**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Proximity, expertise, and access to cutting-edge technology are crucial factors. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 16124 (Hermitage, Pennsylvania) to provide a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care.

**Defining the Landscape: Understanding the Scope**

The area surrounding Hermitage, PA, offers a range of healthcare options, from community hospitals to larger regional medical centers. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering the potential need for frequent appointments and treatments. We will assess each facility based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Glance**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall performance. However, it's important to remember that these are just one piece of the puzzle.

**UPMC Horizon (Greenville, PA):** UPMC Horizon is a regional hospital, approximately 20 minutes from Hermitage. While it may not have a dedicated breast cancer center with all the bells and whistles, it is part of the larger UPMC system. UPMC is known for its cancer care. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key consideration.

**UPMC Jameson (New Castle, PA):** Located roughly 25 minutes from Hermitage, UPMC Jameson is another potential option within the UPMC network. It is important to check its CMS star rating.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times can be a crucial factor, particularly during times of acute need. While not directly related to breast cancer treatment, shorter wait times can indicate efficient operations and potentially better overall patient flow. Data on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources. It is important to consult those resources.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Breast Cancer Care**

Dedicated breast cancer centers offer comprehensive services under one roof. These centers typically have a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff. They often provide access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a flagship cancer center. While not directly in Hermitage, it is part of the UPMC system and is a major referral center for cancer care in the region. The center offers a wide range of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Its reputation for research and clinical trials is significant.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Youngstown, OH):** Located approximately 45 minutes from Hermitage, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is part of the Mercy Health system. It has a cancer center that provides comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer treatment.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Accessing Care Remotely**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer patients greater convenience and access to specialists, regardless of location.

**UPMC Telehealth:** UPMC has a well-established telehealth program, potentially offering virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This is a significant advantage for patients who may have difficulty traveling for appointments.

**Mercy Health Telehealth:** Mercy Health also offers telehealth services. It is important to check the specific services available.

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

High-quality diagnostic imaging is essential for breast cancer detection and staging. Hospitals should offer a full range of imaging modalities, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**UPMC Imaging Services:** UPMC hospitals typically have state-of-the-art imaging facilities, including advanced mammography technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis).

**Mercy Health Imaging Services:** Mercy Health hospitals also offer comprehensive imaging services.

**Surgical Options: Tailoring Treatment to the Individual**

Breast cancer surgery options include lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy. Hospitals should offer a range of surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures.

**UPMC Surgical Services:** UPMC surgeons are experienced in various breast cancer surgical techniques.

**Mercy Health Surgical Services:** Mercy Health surgeons also provide surgical options.

**Radiation Therapy: Targeted Treatment**

Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Hospitals should have advanced radiation therapy equipment and experienced radiation oncologists.

**UPMC Radiation Oncology:** UPMC has advanced radiation therapy capabilities.

**Mercy Health Radiation Oncology:** Mercy Health also provides radiation therapy.

**Medical Oncology: Systemic Treatment**

Medical oncologists specialize in systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies. Hospitals should have experienced medical oncologists and access to the latest treatment options.

**UPMC Medical Oncology:** UPMC provides medical oncology services.

**Mercy Health Medical Oncology:** Mercy Health also offers medical oncology services.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Breast cancer treatment is a journey that requires comprehensive support services. These services may include:

* **Patient navigators:** To guide patients through the healthcare system.
* **Support groups:** To provide emotional support and connect patients with others.
* **Rehabilitation services:** To help patients recover from treatment.
* **Genetic counseling:** To assess risk and guide prevention strategies.

**UPMC Support Services:** UPMC often provides a range of support services.

**Mercy Health Support Services:** Mercy Health also offers support services.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Cutting-Edge Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatment options. Hospitals with active research programs are more likely to offer clinical trials.

**UPMC Clinical Trials:** UPMC is known for its research and clinical trials.

**Mercy Health Clinical Trials:** Mercy Health also may offer clinical trials.

**Financial Considerations: Understanding Costs and Insurance**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. Patients should inquire about the hospital's billing practices, insurance coverage, and financial assistance programs.

**Hospital Websites and Insurance Information:** Hospital websites and insurance providers are valuable resources.

**Making an Informed Decision: Key Takeaways**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex process. Patients near ZIP code 16124 have several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

* **UPMC Horizon and UPMC Jameson:** Offer proximity and access to the UPMC system.
* **UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** A major referral center for cancer care.
* **St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** Provides comprehensive cancer care.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Research:** Thoroughly research each hospital, paying close attention to CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of specialty centers.
2. **Consultation:** Schedule consultations with oncologists and surgeons at multiple hospitals to discuss treatment options and get a feel for the care team.
3. **Ask Questions:** Ask specific questions about the hospital's experience with breast cancer treatment, access to clinical trials, and support services.
4. **Consider Telehealth:** Inquire about telehealth options for follow-up appointments and consultations.
5. **Insurance:** Confirm insurance coverage and understand the hospital's billing practices.

By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, patients near ZIP code 16124 can make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best meets their individual needs.