17407, York, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17407, York, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17407 (York, PA)

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near the York, Pennsylvania ZIP code 17407, evaluating key factors like quality of care, specialized services, and accessibility to help patients make informed choices. We'll delve into the specifics, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, and telehealth offerings, to provide a comprehensive overview.

**The Landscape of Care: Identifying Key Players**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 17407 area include WellSpan York Hospital and UPMC Memorial Hospital. These institutions represent the core of local healthcare, offering a range of services, including specialized breast cancer care. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, such as Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, also offer options for patients seeking advanced treatment.

**WellSpan York Hospital: A Deep Dive**

WellSpan York Hospital is a major regional player. It’s a comprehensive facility offering a wide spectrum of medical services. The hospital’s breast cancer program is a significant component of its oncology services. WellSpan York Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient experience, and outcomes. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of care that meets national standards.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a key consideration for any hospital visit. WellSpan York Hospital’s ER wait times fluctuate. Patients should check current wait times through the hospital's website or third-party services like Google before heading to the ER. Shorter wait times often correlate with better overall efficiency, but this is not always the case.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Services:**

WellSpan York Hospital offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. This includes surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. The hospital provides diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, for early detection and diagnosis. Surgical options range from lumpectomy to mastectomy, with reconstructive surgery options available. The hospital has a dedicated breast care center with specialized nurses and support staff.

**Telehealth Integration:**

WellSpan Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients managing chronic conditions, including breast cancer. It reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, improving convenience and access to care. The availability of telehealth services varies depending on the specific physician and the type of appointment.

**UPMC Memorial Hospital: Assessing the Competition**

UPMC Memorial Hospital, another significant provider in the region, also offers breast cancer services. It’s part of the larger UPMC network, which has a strong reputation for cancer care. UPMC Memorial Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Room Dynamics:**

Similar to WellSpan York Hospital, ER wait times at UPMC Memorial Hospital can vary. Patients should consult online resources or contact the hospital directly for real-time updates.

**Breast Cancer Program Overview:**

UPMC Memorial Hospital's breast cancer program includes diagnostic imaging, surgical options, and medical oncology services. The hospital likely offers a multidisciplinary team approach, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care. Details on the specific services and technologies available can be found on the UPMC website.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

UPMC has a robust telehealth infrastructure. Patients at UPMC Memorial Hospital can access virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. The extent of telehealth integration for breast cancer patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

While located further afield, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offers advanced cancer care and is a viable option for some patients. It is a tertiary care center with specialized expertise and resources. The hospital boasts a 4-star CMS rating, suggesting a higher level of quality compared to WellSpan York Hospital and UPMC Memorial Hospital.

**Emergency Department Considerations:**

Due to its larger size and specialized nature, Hershey Medical Center’s ER wait times can be longer. Patients should plan accordingly and check wait times before traveling.

**The Penn State Cancer Institute:**

The Penn State Cancer Institute is a significant resource. It offers a wide range of cancer treatments, including advanced therapies and clinical trials. The institute provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including surgical, medical, and radiation oncology. The hospital is known for its research and innovation in cancer treatment.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Hershey Medical Center has invested in telehealth. Patients can access virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online support services. The hospital’s telehealth capabilities are often used for follow-up care and managing side effects.

**Comparing and Contrasting: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital, several factors are crucial. Consider the following:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Higher ratings generally indicate better overall quality.
* **Specialized Services:** Does the hospital offer the specific treatments and technologies needed?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital have a team of specialists working together?
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times can be important for urgent needs.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can improve convenience and access to care.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Consider the travel distance and ease of access.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Research online reviews and talk to other patients.

**Specifics of Breast Cancer Care: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond general hospital services, consider the following aspects of breast cancer care:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
* **Surgical Options:** Explore the types of surgeries offered, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery options.
* **Medical Oncology:** Investigate the availability of chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Assess the technologies and expertise in radiation therapy, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Clinical Trials:** Determine whether the hospital participates in clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Support Services:** Look for support services, such as counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation programs.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Availability of genetic counseling and testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.

**Making the Right Choice: A Patient-Centered Approach**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Patients should research multiple options, consider their individual needs and preferences, and consult with their primary care physician and other healthcare providers. The information provided in this review serves as a starting point for making an informed choice.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near York, PA (17407) offer a range of breast cancer care options. WellSpan York Hospital and UPMC Memorial Hospital provide local access to comprehensive services. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, while further away, offers advanced care and specialized expertise. Patients should carefully evaluate each hospital based on their individual needs, preferences, and the specific factors outlined in this review to make the best choice for their care. Remember to check the latest information on hospital websites and consult with your healthcare team to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information.