17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Harrisburg: A Scorecard for ZIP Code 17112

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's 17112 ZIP code, nestled in the heart of the state's capital, offers residents a spectrum of healthcare options, including facilities specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Evaluating these options requires a nuanced approach, considering factors like hospital quality, specialized services, accessibility, and patient experience. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of the leading contenders for breast cancer care near 17112, focusing on key metrics to help patients make informed decisions.

**The Flagship Hospitals: A Comparative Overview**

The dominant healthcare providers in the Harrisburg area, and therefore the closest to 17112, are UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Both are large, multi-faceted institutions with established reputations and comprehensive services. Their performance in breast cancer care warrants careful scrutiny.

**UPMC Harrisburg: A Deep Dive**

UPMC Harrisburg, formerly known as PinnacleHealth, operates several campuses in the Harrisburg area, including the flagship hospital at 111 South Front Street, a short distance from the 17112 ZIP code. This facility holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a standard level of care and performance across a range of quality metrics.

UPMC Harrisburg offers a dedicated breast care center, providing a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This typically includes medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons, all working collaboratively. The hospital boasts advanced imaging capabilities, including mammography, breast ultrasound, and MRI, crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.

While specific data on breast cancer survival rates for UPMC Harrisburg are not readily available in a consolidated format, the hospital's commitment to accreditation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) suggests adherence to established standards of care. This accreditation signifies a commitment to providing high-quality cancer care, including comprehensive treatment planning, supportive services, and patient education.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg can fluctuate. While the hospital strives to provide timely care, patients should anticipate potential delays, particularly during peak hours. Publicly available data indicates average ER wait times that may vary depending on the specific campus and time of day.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Research-Driven Approach**

Located approximately 15 miles from the 17112 ZIP code, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offers a more distant, but highly regarded, option. This hospital is a teaching hospital and research institution, often at the forefront of medical advancements. It holds a four-star rating from CMS, reflecting a higher level of overall quality compared to UPMC Harrisburg.

Hershey Medical Center features a comprehensive breast cancer program, including a dedicated breast cancer center. This center provides a multidisciplinary team of specialists, similar to UPMC Harrisburg, but often with a greater emphasis on clinical trials and cutting-edge research. The hospital has state-of-the-art imaging technology and offers a wide range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

Hershey Medical Center's reputation for research translates into potential access to innovative treatments and clinical trials. Patients may benefit from participating in research studies that explore new therapies and improve outcomes. However, access to these trials is dependent on eligibility criteria and patient preferences.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center are generally comparable to UPMC Harrisburg, with potential for fluctuations. Patients should be prepared for possible delays, particularly during periods of high patient volume.

**Specialty Centers and Outpatient Options**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialty centers and outpatient facilities contribute to the breast cancer care landscape in the Harrisburg area. These facilities often provide focused services, such as diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy infusions, and radiation therapy.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** UPMC operates the Hillman Cancer Center, which has locations in the Harrisburg area. These centers often provide comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. The Hillman Cancer Center network allows patients to access specialized cancer expertise and treatment options within the UPMC system.

**Penn State Cancer Institute:** The Penn State Cancer Institute, located at Hershey Medical Center, extends its services through outpatient clinics and affiliated facilities. These locations provide convenient access to cancer specialists, treatment, and support services.

**Diagnostic Imaging Centers:** Several independent diagnostic imaging centers offer mammography and other breast imaging services. These centers provide convenient access to screening and diagnostic tests, often with shorter wait times than hospital-based facilities. However, it's crucial to ensure these centers are accredited by recognized organizations, such as the American College of Radiology (ACR), to ensure quality and accuracy.

**Telehealth and Remote Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of healthcare delivery, including breast cancer care. Both UPMC and Penn State Health offer telehealth services, providing patients with virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources.

Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, those with mobility limitations, or those seeking convenient access to care. It allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruption to their daily lives. The specific telehealth services offered by each hospital system vary, so patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments with their preferred specialists.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of breast cancer care. Both UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health offer a range of support services to assist patients throughout their journey. These services often include:

* **Nurse navigators:** These dedicated professionals guide patients through the healthcare system, providing support, education, and assistance with appointments and insurance.
* **Support groups:** These groups offer a safe space for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and receive emotional support.
* **Counseling and mental health services:** Cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on mental health. Both hospitals offer counseling services to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of cancer.
* **Financial assistance:** Cancer treatment can be expensive. Hospitals often provide financial assistance programs and connect patients with resources to help manage the costs of care.
* **Rehabilitation services:** Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services can help patients regain strength, mobility, and function after surgery or other treatments.

**Accessibility and Insurance Considerations**

Accessibility is a crucial factor in choosing a healthcare provider. Both UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health have multiple locations throughout the Harrisburg area, providing patients with convenient access to care. However, travel times and transportation options should be considered, especially for patients living in the 17112 ZIP code.

Insurance coverage is another important consideration. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and providers they are considering. They should also understand their out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance. Both UPMC Harrisburg and Penn State Health accept a wide range of insurance plans, but patients should confirm coverage with their insurance provider.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. This review provides a starting point for research, but patients should also consult with their primary care physician, seek referrals from trusted sources, and gather information from multiple sources before making a final decision.

**Summary Scorecard (Based on Available Data):**

* **UPMC Harrisburg:** Three-star CMS rating. Comprehensive services, convenient location. ER wait times variable. Dedicated breast care center.
* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Four-star CMS rating. Strong research focus, access to clinical trials. Further from 17112. ER wait times variable. Dedicated breast cancer center.
* **Specialty Centers:** Offer focused services, potentially shorter wait times. Accreditation is key.
* **Telehealth:** Both systems offer telehealth options for virtual consultations and follow-up care.
* **Patient Experience:** Both hospitals provide support services, including nurse navigators, support groups, and counseling.
* **Accessibility:** Both hospitals have multiple locations, but travel and transportation should be considered. Insurance verification is essential.

This scorecard provides a framework for evaluating breast cancer care options near the 17112 ZIP code. Patients should leverage this information, along with their own research and consultations with healthcare professionals, to make the best decision for their individual needs.