17078, Palmyra, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17078, Palmyra, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 17078

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal and critical decision. For individuals residing near ZIP code 17078 (Mechanicsburg, PA), several hospitals offer comprehensive services. This review provides a fact-based assessment, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help patients make informed choices.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Harrisburg area, including the Mechanicsburg vicinity, benefits from a network of hospitals offering varying levels of breast cancer care. These institutions range from large, flagship facilities with extensive resources to smaller community hospitals with a more localized focus. This review will examine the key players and their strengths.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA):**

Located a short drive from Mechanicsburg, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), reflecting its overall quality of care. This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Hershey Medical Center’s breast cancer program is robust, offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from the expertise of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively.

The hospital's emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, it's important to note that Hershey Medical Center, being a Level I trauma center, often experiences higher ER volumes. Patients should be prepared for potentially longer wait times, especially during peak hours. The hospital's website provides updated wait time information.

Hershey Medical Center has invested heavily in specialized centers. Their Cancer Institute is a hub for advanced cancer treatments and clinical trials. The Breast Cancer Program within the Cancer Institute provides comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care services like genetic counseling and survivorship programs.

Telehealth is increasingly important. Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care services. This can be a significant advantage for patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those living at a distance. The hospital's telehealth platform is integrated with its electronic health record system, ensuring seamless access to patient information.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA):**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located in the state capital, is another major hospital serving the Mechanicsburg area. It currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. While this rating is lower than Hershey Medical Center, it’s important to consider that CMS ratings are just one indicator of quality. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital provides a comprehensive breast cancer program.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are a key factor for patients. Like other hospitals, wait times fluctuate. Checking the hospital's website for real-time updates is recommended.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital’s breast cancer services include diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support services. The hospital has a dedicated breast care center that streamlines the patient experience.

Telehealth is also a component of UPMC Harrisburg Hospital's services. They offer telehealth appointments for certain follow-up care and consultations. The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specific physician and the type of appointment.

**Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA):**

Holy Spirit Hospital, now part of the UPMC network, is located in Camp Hill, closer to Mechanicsburg than the other flagship hospitals. It's a community hospital that offers breast cancer services. While specific CMS star ratings for Holy Spirit Hospital are not consistently available as it operates under the UPMC umbrella, its integration within the UPMC network provides access to resources and expertise.

ER wait times are a consideration for patients seeking emergency care. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead for current wait times is advised.

Holy Spirit Hospital’s breast cancer program provides diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. It offers a more localized approach to care, which can be appealing for patients seeking a smaller, more intimate setting.

Telehealth services are also available at Holy Spirit Hospital, allowing patients to access care remotely.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors should influence a patient's choice.

* **Physician Expertise:** Researching the experience and qualifications of the surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is crucial. Look for board certifications, specializations, and experience in treating breast cancer.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates a hospital meets rigorous standards for cancer care.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, compassion, and overall satisfaction.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital, ease of access, and parking availability.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, genetic counseling, and survivorship programs.
* **Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, inquire about the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Specifics for ZIP Code 17078:**

For residents of ZIP code 17078 (Mechanicsburg), the proximity of Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill is a definite advantage. However, Hershey Medical Center, with its higher CMS rating and extensive resources, remains a strong option, despite the longer drive. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is also within reasonable driving distance.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near ZIP code 17078, offering information on CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. Patients should conduct thorough research, considering their individual needs and preferences. Consulting with their primary care physician and seeking second opinions from breast cancer specialists is highly recommended. By carefully evaluating the available options, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for their specific situation. The information provided is based on publicly available data and is subject to change. Patients should always verify information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers.