16146, Sharon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 16146, Sharon, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near ZIP Code 16146

Finding the best breast cancer care is a critical journey, demanding meticulous research and informed decision-making. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 16146 (New Castle, Pennsylvania) to provide a factual assessment of their capabilities, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. This analysis considers factors such as hospital quality ratings, specialized services, wait times, and telehealth offerings, offering a snapshot of the available resources for patients in the area.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape near New Castle, PA, is primarily shaped by a network of hospitals and affiliated clinics. The closest major medical centers are located in Pittsburgh, offering a wider array of specialized services and advanced technologies. However, several local facilities provide essential care and serve as crucial access points for initial screenings and treatment. This review will examine the prominent players in this region, offering a comprehensive understanding of the options available.

**UPMC Jameson (New Castle, PA): A Local Anchor**

UPMC Jameson, located directly within the 16146 ZIP code, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the community. While not a flagship cancer center, it plays a vital role in the initial stages of breast cancer care. Patients can access mammography screenings and diagnostic services, including biopsies, within the hospital. UPMC Jameson has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating average overall quality.

Regarding emergency room wait times, data from CMS reveals an average wait time of around 30 minutes. This is a crucial factor for patients experiencing symptoms that require immediate attention. However, it is important to note that ER wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume.

UPMC Jameson's telehealth offerings are limited, with a focus on general medical consultations and follow-up appointments. However, they are actively expanding their telehealth capabilities, which may include cancer-related consultations in the future.

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

Approximately 50 miles from New Castle, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh is a major referral center and a comprehensive cancer treatment facility. This hospital is a flagship institution within the UPMC network, offering a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher level of quality compared to UPMC Jameson. The hospital's breast cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons (ACS), indicating adherence to rigorous quality standards. The hospital has a dedicated breast cancer center, staffed by multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and supportive care professionals.

ER wait times at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside are typically longer than at UPMC Jameson, averaging around 45 minutes. This is a common characteristic of larger, more specialized hospitals that often handle a higher volume of emergency cases.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with oncologists, support groups, and educational resources. This allows patients to access specialized care from the comfort of their homes, especially beneficial for those living in more rural areas.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA): Specializing in Women's Health**

Also located in Pittsburgh, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is a dedicated women's hospital and a center of excellence for breast cancer care. It is approximately 50 miles from New Castle. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, and innovative therapies.

UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is known for its expertise in breast reconstruction and its commitment to patient-centered care. It has a 4-star CMS rating and is accredited by the ACS. The hospital's breast cancer program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists collaborating to develop individualized treatment plans.

ER wait times at Magee-Womens Hospital are comparable to UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, averaging around 40 minutes. The hospital's telehealth program is well-developed, offering virtual consultations, educational resources, and support services specifically tailored to women's health needs.

**Heritage Valley Health System (Beaver, PA): A Closer Alternative**

Located approximately 30 miles from New Castle, Heritage Valley Health System provides another option for breast cancer care. Heritage Valley has a network of hospitals and outpatient centers in the region.

Heritage Valley Beaver, one of the system's main hospitals, offers mammography screenings, diagnostic services, and some surgical options. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

ER wait times at Heritage Valley Beaver average around 35 minutes, shorter than the Pittsburgh hospitals. The system is expanding its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Comparing and Contrasting: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer care, several factors should be considered. Proximity is a significant factor, with UPMC Jameson offering the most convenient access for residents of New Castle. However, the specialized services and expertise available at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh may be crucial for patients requiring advanced treatment options.

The CMS star ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality, but they should be viewed in conjunction with other factors, such as accreditation by specialized organizations like the ACS. ER wait times are important, particularly for patients experiencing urgent symptoms. Telehealth offerings can significantly enhance access to care, especially for patients who live far from major medical centers.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond the general hospital ratings, specific specialty centers and programs within each hospital are critical. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital have dedicated breast cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams. These centers often offer access to clinical trials, cutting-edge therapies, and support services such as genetic counseling and survivorship programs.

Heritage Valley Beaver offers a more limited range of services but provides a local option for initial screenings and some treatments. UPMC Jameson focuses on primary care and initial diagnostics.

**Telehealth's Growing Role:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care, allowing patients to access specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital have well-developed telehealth programs, offering virtual consultations and educational resources. Heritage Valley Health System is also expanding its telehealth capabilities. UPMC Jameson's telehealth offerings are more limited.

**Access to Clinical Trials:**

Patients seeking innovative treatments and therapies may benefit from access to clinical trials. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, as major research institutions, are more likely to offer clinical trial participation opportunities.

**Patient Support Services:**

Breast cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. Hospitals offer various support services, including counseling, support groups, and patient navigation programs. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital have robust support services, while Heritage Valley and UPMC Jameson offer more limited resources.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision, requiring careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. While UPMC Jameson provides convenient local access for initial screenings and some treatments, patients requiring specialized care, advanced therapies, or access to clinical trials may find UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside or UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh to be the most suitable options. Heritage Valley Health System offers a closer alternative to the Pittsburgh hospitals. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians, gather information from multiple sources, and consider their individual circumstances when making this critical decision. The information provided in this review offers a factual starting point for navigating the healthcare landscape near ZIP code 16146.