17037, Ickesburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17037, Ickesburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for 17037

Finding the right breast cancer care is a deeply personal journey, and location matters. For residents near ZIP code 17037 (Hershey, PA), access to quality healthcare is a significant factor. This review offers a fact-rich assessment of hospitals in the Harrisburg area, focusing on breast cancer services, quality metrics, and accessibility. We'll delve into flagship hospitals, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to help you navigate your options.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major teaching hospital, anchors the healthcare landscape near 17037. It's a Level I trauma center and consistently ranks high in U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals. While specific breast cancer rankings fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center generally performs well in cancer care. Its Breast Cancer Program offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

The hospital’s Breast Care Center provides comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstruction), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. Hershey Medical Center is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a significant indicator of quality. This accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards for patient care, including a focus on multidisciplinary care, patient navigation, and survivorship programs.

Hershey Medical Center’s CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall hospital quality. While the rating can fluctuate, it's a valuable data point. The most recent available data should be consulted to confirm the current rating. Prospective patients should also check the hospital's website for its patient satisfaction scores and read patient reviews.

**Accessibility and Wait Times at Hershey Medical Center**

Accessibility is a critical factor. Hershey Medical Center is a large facility, and parking can sometimes be challenging. The hospital offers valet parking and multiple parking garages. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most practical mode of transport.

ER wait times are another consideration. These times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the emergency. Current ER wait times are typically available on the hospital's website or through online resources like Google. However, it's important to note that these are averages and may not reflect individual experiences.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital: A Comprehensive Option**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, another major player in the region, offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. It’s a large, well-established hospital with a wide range of services. The hospital's breast cancer program provides a multidisciplinary approach, similar to Hershey Medical Center.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. The hospital also has a Breast Care Center, which is accredited by the NAPBC. This accreditation reflects the hospital's commitment to providing high-quality breast cancer care.

The hospital's CMS star rating is another important data point to consider. Prospective patients should consult the most recent available data to determine the current rating. Patient satisfaction scores and reviews are also valuable resources for evaluating the hospital's performance.

**Accessibility and Wait Times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital is located in Harrisburg, PA, and accessibility is generally good. The hospital offers parking on-site. Public transportation options are available, but driving is often the most convenient choice.

ER wait times are another factor to consider. Like Hershey Medical Center, wait times can fluctuate. The hospital's website or online resources provide current ER wait time information.

**Specialized Centers and Programs**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the Harrisburg area offers specialized centers and programs. These can provide focused expertise and support for breast cancer patients.

**The PinnacleHealth Cancer Institute (UPMC):** This institute offers comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer services. It provides a range of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

**The Penn State Cancer Institute:** This institute at Hershey Medical Center offers advanced cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. It provides access to clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is increasingly important in healthcare. Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. These services can be particularly valuable for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

Telehealth can also facilitate access to specialists, reduce travel time, and improve patient convenience. However, it's important to understand the limitations of telehealth, such as the inability to perform physical examinations.

**Specific Telehealth Stats (Where Available)**

Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual consultations or the percentage of patients using telehealth services, are often available on the hospitals' websites or in their annual reports. These numbers can provide valuable insights into the hospitals' telehealth capabilities and utilization rates.

**Patient Navigation and Support Services**

Patient navigation is a crucial aspect of breast cancer care. Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offer patient navigation services. Patient navigators help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access support services.

Support services, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance, are also essential for breast cancer patients. Both hospitals offer these services.

**Comparing the Options: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer care, consider several factors:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the NAPBC.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital has a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
* **Specialized Centers:** Consider whether the hospital has a dedicated breast care center.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Evaluate the hospital's telehealth services.
* **Patient Navigation and Support Services:** Assess the availability of patient navigation and support services.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Review the hospital's CMS star rating (check the most recent data).
* **ER Wait Times:** Check current ER wait times.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews to get insights into the patient experience.
* **Proximity:** Consider the hospital's location and accessibility.

**The Bottom Line**

For residents near ZIP code 17037, Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are the primary options for breast cancer care. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. Both have NAPBC accreditation, a key indicator of quality.

The choice between these hospitals depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider the factors outlined above, including the hospital's CMS star rating, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews. Visiting the hospitals' websites, speaking with your primary care physician, and consulting with breast cancer specialists are crucial steps in making an informed decision. The best choice is the one that best meets your specific needs and provides the highest quality of care.