17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for 17044

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting task. For residents near ZIP code 17044 (Hershey, Pennsylvania), access to high-quality care is paramount. This review analyzes the major healthcare providers in the Harrisburg metropolitan area, focusing on their breast cancer services, performance metrics, and patient experience, to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for informed decision-making.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare in this region is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major academic medical center. Hershey Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it reflects a solid performance across various quality measures. CMS star ratings are based on a complex algorithm encompassing mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

**Hershey Medical Center's Breast Cancer Services:**

Hershey Medical Center's Cancer Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They boast a dedicated breast cancer program with a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and reconstructive surgeons. The hospital is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, signifying adherence to rigorous standards for cancer care.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing complications from treatment. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center generally reports wait times in line with regional averages. Patients should always call ahead or utilize online resources to check current wait times before arriving at the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Hershey Medical Center houses advanced specialty centers, including a comprehensive breast imaging center equipped with mammography, ultrasound, and MRI capabilities. Their breast surgeons perform a range of procedures, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and sentinel node biopsies. The hospital also offers genetic counseling and testing for patients with a family history of breast cancer.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual appointments for oncology patients. The hospital utilizes remote patient monitoring systems to track patient symptoms and vital signs, enabling proactive intervention and improved care coordination. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits or patient satisfaction scores, are often proprietary information, but patients can inquire about these offerings during their initial consultation.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:**

Another significant player in the region is Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill, a short drive from Hershey. Geisinger Holy Spirit also offers breast cancer services. While Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital's CMS star rating is not readily available, the Geisinger Health System is known for its integrated care model.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital's Breast Cancer Services:**

Geisinger Holy Spirit's breast cancer program includes a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer comprehensive breast imaging services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and perform a variety of surgical procedures. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation is evident in its participation in clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care (Geisinger):**

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit are generally comparable to those at Hershey Medical Center. Patients should always check real-time wait times before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise (Geisinger):**

Geisinger Holy Spirit has a dedicated breast care center providing a range of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care. The hospital’s focus on patient-centered care is reflected in its support services, including patient navigators and support groups.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring (Geisinger):**

Geisinger has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring for oncology patients. The system's integrated electronic health record system facilitates seamless communication between providers and patients.

**Other Considerations:**

**Community General Osteopathic Hospital (Harrisburg):**

Community General Osteopathic Hospital in Harrisburg also provides breast cancer services, though typically on a smaller scale compared to Hershey Medical Center and Geisinger Holy Spirit. Patients should research the specific services offered and the expertise of the medical team.

**Outpatient Centers and Diagnostic Facilities:**

Several outpatient imaging centers and diagnostic facilities in the area offer breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. These facilities can provide convenient access to mammograms and other imaging tests. However, patients should ensure that these facilities are accredited and that their records can be easily shared with their primary oncologist.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of breast cancer care. Online patient reviews, hospital websites, and patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Patients should research the experiences of other patients, paying attention to factors such as communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction with the care received.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:**

Insurance coverage and financial considerations are essential factors in choosing a healthcare provider. Patients should verify their insurance coverage with each hospital and inquire about the costs of specific procedures and treatments. Financial assistance programs may be available for eligible patients.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer research. Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital. Hershey Medical Center and Geisinger Holy Spirit, being larger academic centers, are more likely to offer a wider range of clinical trials.

**Breast Cancer Score Summary (Near 17044):**

**Hershey Medical Center:**

* **Strengths:** Comprehensive services, multidisciplinary team, advanced imaging capabilities, strong research presence, accredited cancer program.
* **Weaknesses:** 3-star CMS rating (though still a solid score), longer ER wait times compared to some smaller facilities.
* **Overall:** A leading choice for comprehensive breast cancer care, particularly for complex cases.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:**

* **Strengths:** Integrated care model, focus on patient-centered care, robust telehealth program, participation in clinical trials.
* **Weaknesses:** CMS star rating not readily available, may have fewer specialized services compared to Hershey Medical Center.
* **Overall:** A strong option for comprehensive breast cancer care with a focus on patient experience.

**Community General Osteopathic Hospital:**

* **Strengths:** Convenient location, potentially shorter wait times.
* **Weaknesses:** Smaller scale, fewer specialized services compared to the larger hospitals.
* **Overall:** May be suitable for basic screening and follow-up care, but patients with complex needs may need to seek care at a larger facility.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near ZIP code 17044, Hershey Medical Center and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital are the primary options for breast cancer care. Both offer comprehensive services, experienced medical teams, and access to advanced technologies. The best choice for each patient depends on their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Patients should research the specific services offered, the expertise of the medical team, and the patient experience at each hospital to make an informed decision. Consulting with a primary care physician or oncologist is essential to determine the best course of action. Remember to factor in ER wait times, telehealth options, and financial considerations when making your choice.