17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Shadow of Gettysburg: A Review for ZIP Code 17320

The ZIP code 17320, encompassing the historic town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding communities, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Residents seeking breast cancer care have several options, ranging from large, regional medical centers to smaller, community-focused facilities. This review will delve into the key players, focusing on their capabilities, performance metrics, and accessibility for those living in and around Gettysburg.

**The Regional Powerhouses: Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and WellSpan York Hospital**

Two major healthcare systems dominate the region: Penn State Health and WellSpan Health. Both offer comprehensive breast cancer services, but their proximity and specific strengths vary for residents of 17320.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Located approximately an hour's drive from Gettysburg, Hershey Medical Center is a flagship facility. It boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a complex evaluation of various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Hershey's Breast Cancer Program is a well-regarded center, offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from the coordinated expertise of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists.

Hershey Medical Center's commitment to research is another significant advantage. As a major academic medical center, it actively participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatment options. While specific wait times for the ER can fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center generally has moderate wait times. It's always advisable to check current wait times through their website or a third-party app before heading to the emergency room. Telehealth is a growing component of their service offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations, potentially reducing the need for travel.

**WellSpan York Hospital:** Situated closer to Gettysburg than Hershey, York Hospital offers a more convenient option for many residents. York Hospital is a large regional hospital, and it is part of the WellSpan Health system. While York Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, it still provides a comprehensive breast cancer program. This includes surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

York Hospital’s breast cancer program is known for its patient-centered care and commitment to community outreach. They often have shorter ER wait times than Hershey Medical Center, but these can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being seen. WellSpan Health has invested heavily in telehealth, making virtual appointments and remote monitoring options readily available. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility limitations.

**Community Hospitals and Specialty Centers: Options Closer to Home**

Beyond the major regional hospitals, residents of 17320 have access to several community hospitals and specialty centers that may offer more convenient options.

**Gettysburg Hospital (WellSpan Health):** Located within the town of Gettysburg, Gettysburg Hospital, part of the WellSpan Health system, provides a convenient access point for residents. While Gettysburg Hospital might not offer the full spectrum of services available at York Hospital or Hershey Medical Center, it often provides initial screenings, diagnostic imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds), and some outpatient services. Patients requiring more complex treatment may be referred to York Hospital or another WellSpan facility.

**UPMC Hanover:** While not directly in Gettysburg, UPMC Hanover is another option for residents of the surrounding areas. UPMC Hanover offers breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging and surgical options. It is a smaller hospital, and its services may be more limited than those of larger hospitals.

**Specialty Centers:** Beyond the hospitals, residents may also find specialized breast cancer centers or imaging centers in the area. These centers often focus on specific aspects of care, such as diagnostic imaging or radiation therapy. It is important to research the qualifications of the providers and the services offered at these centers.

**Diagnostic Imaging: A Crucial First Step**

Access to timely and accurate diagnostic imaging is critical in breast cancer detection and management. All the hospitals mentioned offer mammography services, which are essential for screening. Beyond mammograms, ultrasound and MRI are used for further investigation. The quality of imaging equipment and the expertise of the radiologists are important factors to consider when choosing a facility.

**Treatment Options: Surgical, Medical, and Radiation Oncology**

The treatment options available will vary depending on the stage and type of breast cancer. Both Hershey Medical Center and York Hospital offer a full range of surgical options, including lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy. They also have experienced medical oncologists who provide chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Radiation therapy is typically available on-site or at a nearby facility.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for patients in rural areas. Both Hershey Medical Center and WellSpan Health have expanded their telehealth capabilities. This can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and medication management. Telehealth can reduce the need for travel, save time, and improve access to care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a significant factor when choosing a hospital, especially in an emergency. While wait times can fluctuate, it's generally recommended to check the current wait times online or through a third-party app before going to the ER. York Hospital often has shorter wait times than Hershey Medical Center.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The CMS star ratings provide a valuable, albeit simplified, overview of hospital quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While the ratings should not be the sole factor in making a decision, they can be a useful tool for comparing hospitals.

**Navigating the Healthcare System: Finding the Right Fit**

Choosing the right breast cancer care provider is a personal decision. Residents of 17320 should consider their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for appointments and treatment?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital or center accept your insurance plan?
* **Specialty Services:** Does the hospital offer the specific services you need (e.g., genetic testing, reconstructive surgery)?
* **Patient Experience:** What are the hospital's reputation and patient reviews?
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Do you want access to the latest treatment options through clinical trials?

**Conclusion: A Multifaceted Landscape**

The residents of 17320 have a range of options for breast cancer care, from the comprehensive services of Hershey Medical Center and York Hospital to the more convenient options offered by community hospitals and specialty centers. By carefully considering their individual needs and preferences, residents can find the right provider and receive the best possible care. It is essential to research the specific services offered by each facility, understand the qualifications of the healthcare providers, and consider factors such as ER wait times, telehealth availability, and CMS star ratings. The key is to be an informed patient and advocate for your own health.