17057, Middletown, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17057, Middletown, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 17057

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is daunting. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the 17057 ZIP code (Hershey, Pennsylvania) to provide a fact-based assessment of their breast cancer care offerings, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located directly within the 17057 ZIP code, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. This flagship hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including factors relevant to breast cancer treatment such as patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates.

Hershey Medical Center's Breast Cancer Program is comprehensive. It features a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to collaborate on each patient's care. The hospital is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, a significant indicator of quality. This accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards for cancer care, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.

**Specialized Centers and Advanced Technology**

Hershey Medical Center houses a dedicated Breast Center, providing a centralized location for screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The center offers advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of breast cancer, particularly in women with dense breasts. They also utilize breast MRI and ultrasound as needed.

The hospital's radiation oncology department offers advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which can target tumors with greater precision while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The medical oncology team provides chemotherapy and targeted therapies, including access to clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth Integration**

While the Hershey Medical Center is a large and well-equipped facility, patients should be aware of potential wait times in the Emergency Department. Data indicates that ER wait times can fluctuate, so it's crucial to consider this factor when seeking urgent care. The hospital publishes its ER wait times online, providing transparency for patients.

Hershey Medical Center has embraced telehealth to expand access to care. Telehealth appointments are available for certain oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those who have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital: A Regional Presence**

Located a short drive from Hershey, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers another option for breast cancer care. While not directly within the 17057 ZIP code, it serves a significant patient population in the region. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating.

The hospital's cancer program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This accreditation demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality cancer care. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital's breast cancer services include surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery.

**Diagnostic and Treatment Options**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers a range of diagnostic services, including mammography, ultrasound, and breast MRI. They also provide access to genetic counseling and testing for patients with a family history of breast cancer or other related cancers.

The hospital's radiation oncology department utilizes advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as IMRT and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT). The medical oncology team offers chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth Availability**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital also publishes its ER wait times online, allowing patients to make informed decisions about where to seek emergency care. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

The hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, including virtual consultations for oncology patients. Telehealth appointments can provide convenient access to care for follow-up visits, medication management, and supportive care services.

**Other Considerations: Community Hospitals and Outpatient Centers**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other healthcare providers in the Harrisburg area contribute to breast cancer care. These include community hospitals and outpatient centers that offer screening mammograms, diagnostic services, and some treatment options.

**Holy Spirit Hospital (Geisinger Holy Spirit):** This hospital, located in Camp Hill, PA, is a part of the Geisinger Health System and offers breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment. They also have a breast center.

**Outpatient Centers:** Many outpatient centers and imaging facilities offer screening mammograms and diagnostic services. These centers can be a convenient option for routine screening and follow-up care.

**Key Considerations for Patients**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care involves several factors beyond CMS star ratings and ER wait times. Patients should consider the following:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
* **Advanced Technology:** Inquire about the availability of advanced imaging and radiation therapy techniques.
* **Clinical Trials:** Ask about access to clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments.
* **Patient Support Services:** Consider the availability of support groups, counseling, and survivorship programs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences, such as the hospital's location, atmosphere, and patient satisfaction scores.

**Telehealth and Its Role**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in breast cancer care. It can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care services. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options at the hospitals they are considering.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical consideration, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or needing urgent care. Checking the hospital's published ER wait times can help patients make informed decisions about where to seek emergency care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review has provided a fact-based overview of the hospitals near the 17057 ZIP code, including their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. By carefully considering these factors and consulting with their healthcare providers, patients can make informed decisions about their care and choose the hospital that best meets their individual needs. Remember to always discuss your specific situation and preferences with your doctor to create a personalized treatment plan.