Breast Cancer Score

17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

Hospital Score in 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

Breast Cancer Score 15
People Score 35
Provider Score 21
Hospital Score 21
Travel Score 58

Hospital Score Review of 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

**Breast Cancer Care in Central Pennsylvania: A Hospital Scorecard for ZIP Code 17751**

Living in the Williamsport, Pennsylvania area (ZIP Code 17751) means having access to a range of healthcare options, including those for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near this area, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, wait times, and specialized services. It’s important to remember that healthcare needs are individual, and this information should be used in conjunction with personal consultations with medical professionals.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania, is a significant regional player, approximately an hour's drive from Williamsport. This flagship hospital is a Level I Trauma Center and holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While the CMS star rating system is not the sole indicator of quality, it provides a useful snapshot of overall performance based on various factors, including patient outcomes and safety. Geisinger's breast cancer services are comprehensive, encompassing screening, diagnosis, surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. They have a dedicated breast cancer center, which offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient care. Geisinger reports an average ER wait time, which can fluctuate, but historical data suggests it is often around the national average. They have also invested heavily in telehealth services, including virtual consultations for oncology patients, expanding access to care for those in rural areas. Their telehealth program includes remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, helping to manage side effects and improve overall patient experience.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital: Local Care with a Broad Reach**

UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital, located directly in the 17751 ZIP code, is a vital resource for the local community. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating, it provides a convenient option for many residents. The hospital offers a range of breast cancer services, including screening mammograms, diagnostic imaging, and surgical options. UPMC Susquehanna is part of the larger UPMC system, which allows for referrals to specialized centers if needed. They have a cancer center on-site, which provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy. ER wait times at UPMC Susquehanna can vary, so it's wise to check real-time data if possible. The hospital has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for certain specialties, which can be particularly helpful for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Other Hospitals within Reach**

Several other hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance of Williamsport. These include:

* **Evangelical Community Hospital (Lewisburg, PA):** Located approximately 45 minutes from Williamsport, Evangelical is a smaller community hospital. It may be a good option for those seeking a more intimate setting. Evangelical offers breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. They do not have a CMS star rating. ER wait times are typically shorter than larger hospitals.
* **Jersey Shore Hospital (Jersey Shore, PA):** Jersey Shore Hospital is a smaller facility closer to Williamsport, offering basic services. It’s a good option for basic screening and immediate care. It does not have a CMS star rating.

**Key Metrics and Considerations**

When evaluating hospitals for breast cancer care, several factors are crucial:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not perfect, CMS star ratings offer a general indication of hospital quality. Higher ratings generally indicate better performance across a range of metrics.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This accreditation signifies adherence to high standards of care.
* **Specialized Centers:** Hospitals with dedicated breast cancer centers often provide a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to care.
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** The best breast cancer care involves a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and nurses.
* **Technology:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is essential for accurate diagnosis.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to breast cancer care, long ER wait times can be a sign of hospital overcrowding and potential delays in care.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider reading patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's culture and patient satisfaction.

**Specifics on Breast Cancer Services**

Hospitals near 17751 offer a range of breast cancer services, including:

* **Screening Mammograms:** Regular mammograms are the cornerstone of early detection. Most hospitals offer both 2D and 3D mammography.
* **Diagnostic Imaging:** If a screening mammogram reveals an abnormality, further imaging, such as diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs, may be required.
* **Biopsy:** If imaging suggests cancer, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis. This can be done using various techniques, including needle biopsies and surgical biopsies.
* **Surgery:** Surgical options include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue) and mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).
* **Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used after lumpectomy to reduce the risk of recurrence.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, depending on the stage of the cancer.
* **Hormone Therapy:** Hormone therapy is used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. It blocks the effects of hormones that can fuel cancer growth.
* **Clinical Trials:** Many hospitals participate in clinical trials, which offer patients access to the latest treatments and research.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as support groups, counseling, and resources for financial assistance.

**Telehealth Statistics**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Geisinger, in particular, has made significant investments in telehealth. While specific statistics on telehealth usage for breast cancer patients are not always publicly available, the general trend is toward increased adoption. Telehealth can be used for:

* **Initial Consultations:** Virtual appointments can allow patients to meet with specialists without traveling long distances.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Telehealth is particularly well-suited for follow-up appointments after surgery or treatment.
* **Medication Management:** Doctors can monitor patients' medication side effects and adjust dosages remotely.
* **Patient Education:** Telehealth can be used to provide patients with educational materials and support.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical consideration, even if they don't directly relate to breast cancer care. Long wait times can be stressful and may indicate potential delays in care if you need immediate attention for any health issue. Real-time ER wait time data is often available online or through hospital websites.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research, but it's essential to gather more information and consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek second opinions. By taking the time to research your options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Remember to factor in the convenience of location, the availability of specialized services, and the overall quality of care when making your choice.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review
Health Scores Near 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania

You may also like

17767, Salona, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 2.25 Miles

Total Population: None

17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 2.71 Miles

Total Population: 107

17745, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 4.88 Miles

Total Population: 17,792

17748, Mc Elhattan, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 8.67 Miles

Total Population: 121

17779, Woolrich, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 9.65 Miles

Total Population: 30

17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 11.02 Miles

Total Population: 3,474

17721, Avis, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 11.54 Miles

Total Population: 1,635

17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 15.37 Miles

Total Population: 11,885

17744, Linden, Pennsylvania
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 17751: 19.22 Miles

Total Population: 2,747

Health Scores in 17751, Mill Hall, Pennsylvania