17005, Berrysburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17005, Berrysburg, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near 17005

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near the 17005 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This analysis aims to provide a clearer picture for patients navigating this complex healthcare landscape.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Focus**

The geographical focus of this review centers on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of the 17005 ZIP code, which encompasses the Carlisle, Pennsylvania area. The evaluation prioritizes facilities with established breast cancer programs, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. Emphasis is placed on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, where applicable, and publicly reported wait times.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

Several hospitals in the region stand out as potential flagship facilities for breast cancer care. These often have the resources to offer comprehensive services and participate in clinical trials. The CMS star rating system, while not a perfect measure, provides a snapshot of overall hospital quality based on patient experience, safety, and effectiveness.

* **UPMC Harrisburg (Harrisburg, PA):** Located approximately 30 miles east of Carlisle, UPMC Harrisburg is a major regional medical center. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's important to check the most recent data on the CMS Hospital Compare website. UPMC's network often includes specialized cancer centers, and patients should investigate the specific programs offered at UPMC Harrisburg. This includes assessing their breast cancer program's accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA):** Situated roughly 15 miles east of Carlisle, Hershey Medical Center is a well-regarded academic medical center. It typically boasts a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. The hospital’s Cancer Institute is a significant resource, offering multidisciplinary breast cancer care. Patients should research the specific accreditations and certifications held by the Cancer Institute, such as those from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).

* **WellSpan York Hospital (York, PA):** Located about 40 miles southeast of Carlisle, WellSpan York Hospital is another major regional hospital. Check the most recent CMS star rating for this hospital on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Patients should investigate the hospital's breast cancer program, looking for details on its diagnostic capabilities, surgical options, and medical oncology services.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Consideration**

While not directly related to breast cancer care, emergency room wait times can be a factor in overall patient experience, particularly for patients experiencing complications or side effects from treatment. Publicly available data on ER wait times, often available through hospital websites or third-party sources like ProPublica, can offer some insight. It's crucial to understand that these are averages and individual experiences may vary.

* **UPMC Harrisburg:** Investigate the average ER wait times, which can fluctuate. Check the hospital's website or a third-party source for the most up-to-date information.

* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Similar to UPMC Harrisburg, research the average ER wait times. Academic medical centers can sometimes experience longer wait times due to the complexity of cases they handle.

* **WellSpan York Hospital:** Check the average ER wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Delving Deeper**

Beyond general hospital ratings, the presence of specialized breast cancer centers and programs is a key differentiator. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff to provide comprehensive care.

* **Breast Cancer Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated breast cancer centers. These centers often provide advanced imaging services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound. They should also offer genetic counseling and testing for patients at high risk.

* **Surgical Oncology:** Evaluate the surgical options offered, including lumpectomy, mastectomy (with various reconstruction options), and sentinel lymph node biopsy. Look for surgeons experienced in minimally invasive techniques.

* **Medical Oncology:** Investigate the availability of medical oncology services, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Assess the hospital's participation in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

* **Radiation Oncology:** Assess the radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and brachytherapy.

* **Supportive Care:** A strong breast cancer program includes supportive care services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutritional counseling, psychological support, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services. Hospitals should offer telehealth options to improve patient access and convenience.

* **Virtual Consultations:** Inquire about the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists.

* **Remote Monitoring:** Explore the use of remote monitoring technologies to track patient symptoms and side effects.

* **Support Groups and Education:** Investigate the availability of virtual support groups and educational resources.

**Specific Considerations for Each Hospital (Examples)**

* **UPMC Harrisburg:** Investigate the specific accreditations of their cancer center. Research the types of surgical procedures offered, including the availability of nipple-sparing mastectomies. Check for their participation in clinical trials.

* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Explore the resources available at the Cancer Institute, including its multidisciplinary approach. Research the hospital's telehealth capabilities, including the availability of virtual appointments.

* **WellSpan York Hospital:** Investigate the hospital's breast cancer program, focusing on its diagnostic imaging capabilities and its surgical options. Assess the availability of supportive care services.

**Data Sources and Verification**

The information presented in this review is based on publicly available data. However, hospital services and ratings can change. Patients should independently verify all information by:

* **Visiting the CMS Hospital Compare website:** This is the primary source for CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Checking hospital websites:** Review the hospital's website for detailed information about its breast cancer program, services offered, and physician profiles.
* **Contacting the hospital directly:** Call the hospital's breast cancer center or patient services department to ask specific questions and clarify any uncertainties.
* **Consulting with your primary care physician:** Seek your doctor's recommendations and discuss the best options for your individual needs.

**Beyond the Numbers: Patient Experience**

While data and ratings are important, patient experience is paramount. Consider:

* **Patient reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to gain insights into their experiences with the hospital and its staff.
* **Personal preferences:** Consider your own preferences regarding location, convenience, and the type of care you are seeking.
* **Communication and rapport:** Choose a hospital and a care team with whom you feel comfortable and who communicate effectively.

**Conclusion: A Starting Point**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for research, offering a fact-rich overview of hospitals near the 17005 ZIP code. By combining this information with independent research, personal preferences, and consultations with healthcare professionals, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care. Remember that this is not an exhaustive list, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Always verify information with the hospitals directly and consult with your own physician.