17074, Newport, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17074, Newport, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Deep Dive for Patients Near 17074

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. For individuals residing near ZIP code 17074 (Mechanicsburg, PA), several prominent healthcare institutions offer comprehensive services. This review provides a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to assist in informed decision-making.

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

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located approximately 20 miles from Mechanicsburg, stands as a flagship institution in the region. This hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

The Hershey Medical Center houses the Penn State Cancer Institute, a dedicated center offering a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists, all working collaboratively. The Cancer Institute is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a program of the American College of Surgeons, signifying a commitment to providing high-quality cancer care.

Emergency room wait times at Hershey Medical Center fluctuate, but data indicates an average wait time of approximately 30-45 minutes. This information, while subject to change based on patient volume and severity of cases, is crucial for patients seeking immediate care.

Hershey Medical Center has invested significantly in telehealth services. They offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online support groups. This expanded access to care is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those facing mobility challenges. The hospital's telehealth program includes options for pre- and post-operative care, medication management, and follow-up appointments, streamlining the patient journey.

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

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, approximately 10 miles from Mechanicsburg, is another significant player in the region's healthcare landscape. This hospital also holds a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a strong overall performance in quality metrics.

The hospital's comprehensive breast care program provides a full spectrum of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of breast cancer.

ER wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are generally comparable to those at Hershey Medical Center, with average wait times often ranging from 30-60 minutes. However, these times are dynamic and can vary depending on the time of day and the number of patients seeking care.

UPMC Pinnacle has also embraced telehealth to enhance patient access. They offer virtual visits for certain follow-up appointments and consultations. This is particularly helpful for patients who live at a distance or have difficulty traveling to the hospital. The telehealth platform also provides educational resources and support groups.

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

While Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are the dominant players, several other healthcare facilities in the vicinity of 17074 offer breast cancer services.

**UPMC West Shore Hospital:** Located in Mechanicsburg, this hospital provides a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and outpatient care. While it may not offer the same breadth of specialized services as the flagship hospitals, it provides convenient access for local residents.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:** Situated in Camp Hill, this hospital offers a breast care center with a focus on early detection and personalized treatment plans.

**Specialty Centers:** Patients may also seek care at specialized breast cancer centers or imaging facilities. These centers often focus on specific aspects of care, such as advanced imaging or surgical procedures.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Factors for Patients**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer care, several factors should be considered:

* **CMS Star Rating:** This rating provides a general overview of the hospital's quality and performance. Higher ratings generally indicate better outcomes and patient experience.
* **Accreditations:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) and the American College of Radiology (ACR). These accreditations signify adherence to rigorous standards of care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other supportive care providers.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography and MRI, can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment planning.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to breast cancer care, ER wait times are important for patients who may need immediate medical attention.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Online reviews and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the hospital's patient experience and the quality of care.

**Specifics on Treatment Options**

The hospitals near 17074 offer a comprehensive range of breast cancer treatment options. These include:

* **Surgery:** Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy (removal of the breast) are common surgical procedures. Sentinel lymph node biopsy and axillary lymph node dissection are often performed to determine if the cancer has spread.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be used before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to prevent recurrence.
* **Hormone Therapy:** Hormone therapy is used to block the effects of hormones on cancer cells. It is often used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers.
* **Targeted Therapy:** Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
* **Clinical Trials:** Patients may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, which offer access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Survivorship and Support Services**

Beyond treatment, hospitals near 17074 offer a range of survivorship and support services, including:

* **Rehabilitation:** Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help patients regain strength and mobility after surgery and treatment.
* **Counseling and Support Groups:** Mental health professionals and support groups provide emotional support and guidance.
* **Nutrition Counseling:** Registered dietitians can help patients manage side effects and maintain a healthy diet.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Genetic counseling can help patients understand their risk of developing breast cancer and make informed decisions about screening and prevention.
* **Financial Assistance:** Hospitals often offer financial assistance programs to help patients manage the cost of care.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. By considering the factors outlined in this review, patients near ZIP code 17074 can make an informed choice that aligns with their individual needs and preferences. The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, with their high CMS ratings, comprehensive services, and commitment to telehealth, stand out as strong contenders. However, other local hospitals and specialty centers also offer valuable resources. Thorough research, consultations with healthcare providers, and a focus on individual needs are crucial for navigating this important journey.