17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Shadow of South Mountain: A Review for ZIP Code 17246

Living in the vicinity of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17246) means proximity to a blend of rural charm and access to healthcare. When facing a potential breast cancer diagnosis, understanding the landscape of local care becomes paramount. This review delves into the available options, focusing on hospitals, specialty centers, and the crucial factors impacting patient experience, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, and the evolving role of telehealth.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the performance of major hospitals. While no single hospital dominates the immediate Waynesboro area, residents typically look towards facilities in neighboring cities like Chambersburg and Gettysburg, as well as the larger metropolitan areas of Harrisburg and Baltimore. Assessing these options requires a critical eye.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** Located approximately 20 miles from Waynesboro, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is a significant regional player. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible score, it indicates an overall performance that is considered average in the national context. CMS star ratings encompass various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital has a dedicated cancer center that is a Commission on Cancer (CoC) accredited program. This accreditation signifies a commitment to comprehensive cancer care, including multidisciplinary teams, access to clinical trials, and patient support services.

**Gettysburg Hospital:** Situated roughly 30 miles from Waynesboro, Gettysburg Hospital, also part of the WellSpan Health system, presents another option. Its CMS star rating is also 3 stars. While the hospital has a cancer program, it may not offer the same level of specialized breast cancer care as larger, more specialized centers.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Heading further afield, about 70 miles northeast, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a nationally recognized academic medical center. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher level of overall quality. Hershey Medical Center houses the Penn State Cancer Institute, a comprehensive cancer center with a dedicated breast cancer program. The institute offers a wide array of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and access to clinical trials. The distance, however, is a significant consideration for residents of ZIP code 17246.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore):** For those willing to travel further, about 75 miles southeast, the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore presents another option. It is a major teaching hospital with a strong reputation in various specialties. The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center that provides a wide range of services for breast cancer treatment. However, the drive to Baltimore, coupled with potential traffic, adds to the travel time.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of hospital efficiency and can significantly impact patient experience, especially in urgent situations. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's important to consider the historical averages for each facility. Websites like ProPublica's Hospital Compare and other online resources provide data on ER wait times. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department. In the context of breast cancer, a timely diagnosis and treatment plan are crucial. Delays in accessing emergency care can be detrimental.

**Specialty Centers and Dedicated Breast Cancer Programs:**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized breast cancer centers offer a more focused approach to care. These centers often have dedicated teams of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff.

**WellSpan Health:** WellSpan Health, as mentioned, has a presence in the region with facilities in Chambersburg and Gettysburg. The WellSpan Cancer Center in Chambersburg, as a CoC accredited facility, offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. Patients can expect access to diagnostic services, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care services.

**Penn State Cancer Institute:** The Penn State Cancer Institute in Hershey, as a comprehensive cancer center, provides a high level of specialized breast cancer care. The institute’s breast cancer program offers advanced imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and access to clinical trials.

**University of Maryland Medical Center:** The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore also has a comprehensive cancer center with a dedicated breast cancer program.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance:**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, especially for patients in rural or semi-rural areas. It allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**WellSpan Health:** WellSpan Health has been expanding its telehealth capabilities. Patients may be able to access virtual consultations with oncologists, breast surgeons, and other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and psychological support.

**Penn State Health:** Penn State Health has also invested heavily in telehealth. The Penn State Cancer Institute offers telehealth services for various aspects of breast cancer care, including consultations, education, and support groups.

**University of Maryland Medical Center:** The University of Maryland Medical Center also provides telehealth services.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Screening:**

Access to high-quality diagnostic imaging is essential for early detection and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer. This includes mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is an important consideration.

**WellSpan Health:** WellSpan facilities offer mammography services, including 3D mammography, at various locations.

**Penn State Health:** The Penn State Cancer Institute in Hershey offers advanced imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and PET/CT scans.

**University of Maryland Medical Center:** The University of Maryland Medical Center offers advanced imaging services.

**Patient Support Services:**

Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. It also requires emotional, psychological, and practical support. Look for hospitals and centers that offer comprehensive support services, including:

* **Patient navigators:** These individuals help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and provide emotional support.
* **Support groups:** These groups provide a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others.
* **Counseling services:** Counseling can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of breast cancer.
* **Financial assistance:** Many hospitals and cancer centers offer financial assistance programs to help patients with the cost of treatment.
* **Rehabilitation services:** Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help patients recover from the physical effects of treatment.

**Considering the Options for ZIP Code 17246 Residents:**

For residents of Waynesboro (ZIP code 17246), the choice of where to receive breast cancer care involves weighing several factors:

* **Proximity:** WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital and Gettysburg Hospital offer the closest options.
* **Specialization:** The Penn State Cancer Institute in Hershey and the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore offer a higher level of specialization.
* **CMS Ratings:** While CMS ratings are just one factor, they provide a snapshot of overall hospital performance.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services can significantly reduce travel burden.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services are crucial for navigating the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer.
* **ER Wait Times:** Evaluate the historical average ER wait times at each facility.

**Recommendation:**

The "best" hospital is ultimately a personal decision. Residents of ZIP code 17246 should consider their individual needs and preferences when making this critical choice. It is highly recommended to consult with a primary care physician or a trusted healthcare provider to discuss individual circumstances and receive personalized recommendations. Gathering information from multiple sources, including hospital websites, patient reviews, and physician consultations, is crucial for making an informed decision. While WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital and Gettysburg Hospital offer convenient local options, the Penn State Cancer Institute and the University of Maryland Medical Center provide more specialized care, albeit with longer travel times. The increasing availability of telehealth services can bridge the distance and improve access to care.