17270, Williamson, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17270, Williamson, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Waynesboro, PA (ZIP Code 17270)

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. Proximity to Waynesboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17270) offers several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review analyzes the key players, focusing on factors crucial for breast cancer patients: quality of care, access, specialized services, and technological advancements.

**The Big Players: Chambersburg and Gettysburg**

The two primary contenders for residents of Waynesboro are hospitals in Chambersburg and Gettysburg. Both offer comprehensive services, but their approaches and resources differ.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital (Chambersburg, PA):** Located approximately 20 minutes from Waynesboro, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is a major healthcare provider in the region. While not a dedicated cancer center, it offers a robust oncology program. The hospital has a good reputation for general care, but its breast cancer-specific offerings require closer scrutiny.

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. CMS star ratings provide a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality, based on various metrics like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Absence of a star rating doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but it means the hospital doesn't participate in the program.

The hospital's ER wait times are a crucial factor. According to recent data, the average ER wait time is approximately 30 minutes. This is a reasonable wait time, but it's essential to consider that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases.

WellSpan Chambersburg offers breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsies. They also provide surgical oncology services, including lumpectomies and mastectomies. The hospital partners with the WellSpan Cancer Center, which provides medical oncology and radiation oncology services.

Telehealth is increasingly important for cancer patients. WellSpan Chambersburg offers telehealth options for certain follow-up appointments and consultations. However, the extent of telehealth services for breast cancer patients specifically is not readily available. Patients should inquire directly about telehealth availability for their specific needs.

**Gettysburg Hospital (Gettysburg, PA):** Situated about 40 minutes from Waynesboro, Gettysburg Hospital is another option. It is part of the UPMC system.

Gettysburg Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This suggests that the hospital performs at an average level compared to other hospitals nationally.

ER wait times at Gettysburg Hospital are generally longer than those at Chambersburg Hospital. Recent data shows an average ER wait time of approximately 45 minutes.

Gettysburg Hospital provides breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsies. They offer surgical oncology services, including lumpectomies and mastectomies. The hospital partners with the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, which provides medical oncology and radiation oncology services.

Telehealth services are available at Gettysburg Hospital, but specific details regarding breast cancer care are not readily available. Patients should inquire directly about telehealth availability for their specific needs.

**Specialized Centers: Exploring Beyond the Immediate Area**

For those seeking specialized care, exploring hospitals outside the immediate vicinity is essential. These hospitals may offer advanced treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center (Pittsburgh, PA):** While a significant distance from Waynesboro (approximately 3 hours), the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a nationally recognized cancer center. It offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center has multiple locations. Patients in the Waynesboro area may be able to access services through a UPMC facility closer to home, such as Gettysburg Hospital, which is affiliated with UPMC.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):** Another option for specialized care is Johns Hopkins Hospital, approximately 1.5 hours from Waynesboro. Johns Hopkins is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation and has a renowned breast cancer program.

Johns Hopkins offers a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and access to clinical trials.

**Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center (Philadelphia, PA):** About a 3-hour drive from Waynesboro, the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania is a leading cancer center. It offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach.

**Factors to Consider: Beyond Location**

Choosing a hospital involves more than just proximity. Several factors should guide your decision:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer. Accreditation signifies a commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care.
* **Surgeon Expertise:** Inquire about the surgeon's experience and specialization in breast cancer surgery. Ask about the number of breast cancer surgeries performed annually.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, and support staff.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Explore whether the hospital participates in clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the hospital's patient-centered care and support services.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as counseling, support groups, financial assistance, and survivorship programs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan and that the services you need are covered.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. When evaluating hospitals, inquire about their telehealth capabilities and how they are used for breast cancer patients.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. Longer wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment. When choosing a hospital, consider the average ER wait times and how they might affect your access to care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

The best hospital for breast cancer care near Waynesboro, PA (ZIP Code 17270) depends on individual needs and preferences. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital and Gettysburg Hospital are accessible options, but patients should carefully evaluate their services and consider specialized centers like UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center for advanced care. By considering factors like accreditation, surgeon expertise, multidisciplinary approach, access to clinical trials, patient experience, support services, and insurance coverage, patients can make an informed decision and receive the best possible care. Remember to inquire about telehealth options and ER wait times.