17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape Near Lewisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17850)

Living near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17850) offers a charming blend of rural beauty and access to healthcare. For women facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the choice of where to seek treatment is paramount. This review assesses the available options, focusing on key metrics like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective for informed decision-making.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Lewisburg is primarily served by Evangelical Community Hospital, located directly within the ZIP code. However, the region benefits from the presence of larger, more specialized facilities within a reasonable driving distance. This review will consider Evangelical Community Hospital and then broaden the scope to include Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, and UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital, both within a 30-60 minute drive, offering a broader spectrum of care.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: The Local Hub**

Evangelical Community Hospital, a community hospital, is the most immediately accessible option. While it doesn't have a CMS Star Rating readily available, it is a well-regarded facility within the local community. It offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and chemotherapy, crucial for initial breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. ER wait times are generally moderate, typically under an hour, providing relatively quick access to urgent care needs. The hospital's commitment to community health is evident in its outreach programs and support groups. However, for complex cases or advanced treatment options, patients may need to explore the specialty centers offered by larger hospitals.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, approximately a 20-minute drive from Lewisburg, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a high level of quality and patient satisfaction. Geisinger's Cancer Institute is a significant asset, offering comprehensive breast cancer care, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials. Their Breast Cancer Program is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), signifying a commitment to high standards of care.

Geisinger's ER wait times are generally longer than Evangelical's, often exceeding an hour, reflecting its status as a regional referral center. However, the wait times are often mitigated by the expertise and resources available. Geisinger also excels in telehealth services. They offer a robust telehealth program for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services, which can be particularly beneficial for patients living in more rural areas. This reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, easing the burden on patients and their families. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation provides access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital: Another Strong Contender**

UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital, located in Williamsport, PA, about a 45-minute drive from Lewisburg, provides another option for breast cancer care. While the hospital does not have a CMS Star Rating, it is a part of the larger UPMC system, which is known for its quality of care. UPMC Susquehanna offers a comprehensive cancer center with surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. They also have a dedicated breast health center that provides diagnostic imaging, including mammograms and breast ultrasounds.

ER wait times at UPMC Susquehanna are generally comparable to Geisinger, often exceeding an hour. However, the hospital's strong network of specialists and resources provides a high level of care. UPMC also offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, expanding access to care for patients in the region.

**Specialized Services: Key Considerations**

Beyond general hospital ratings and wait times, specific services are crucial for breast cancer patients. Look for hospitals with:

* **NAPBC Accreditation:** This signifies a commitment to high standards of breast cancer care, including multidisciplinary teams, comprehensive services, and patient-centered care. Geisinger Medical Center holds this accreditation.
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** A team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses, working collaboratively is essential for coordinated and comprehensive care.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Geisinger is particularly strong in this area.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Genetic testing and counseling are vital for patients with a family history of breast cancer.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lymphedema management are important for recovery and quality of life.
* **Support Groups and Patient Navigation:** These services provide emotional support, education, and guidance throughout the treatment journey.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. It can reduce the need for frequent travel, improve access to specialists, and provide convenient follow-up care. Geisinger and UPMC Susquehanna both offer robust telehealth programs. Consider the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups when evaluating hospitals.

**ER Wait Times: A Factor in Urgent Situations**

While not the primary factor in choosing a breast cancer treatment center, ER wait times are relevant, especially for managing treatment-related side effects or emergencies. Evangelical Community Hospital generally has the shortest wait times. Geisinger and UPMC Susquehanna, as larger referral centers, may have longer wait times.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Framework: A Comparative Assessment**

While a definitive "Breast Cancer Score" is impossible without a comprehensive, patient-specific evaluation, we can assess the hospitals based on key factors:

* **Hospital Quality Ratings:** CMS Star Ratings (Geisinger: 4 stars) indicate overall quality.
* **Accreditation:** NAPBC accreditation (Geisinger) signifies adherence to high standards.
* **Specialized Services:** Availability of multidisciplinary teams, clinical trials, genetic counseling, and rehabilitation services.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity to Lewisburg and ER wait times.

**Comparative Assessment (Subjective, Based on Available Data)**

* **Evangelical Community Hospital:** Offers convenient local access and moderate ER wait times. Lacks NAPBC accreditation and the breadth of specialized services offered by larger centers. Good for initial diagnosis and basic treatment, but may require referral for more complex cases.
* **Geisinger Medical Center:** Strongest contender. Excellent hospital quality rating, NAPBC accreditation, comprehensive specialized services, robust telehealth program, and access to clinical trials. Longer ER wait times. A regional leader in breast cancer care.
* **UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** Offers a good level of care with a comprehensive cancer center. Provides a good range of services and has telehealth capabilities. ER wait times may be longer.

**Conclusion: Making the Best Choice**

For women in the Lewisburg area facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Evangelical Community Hospital provides convenient local access. Geisinger Medical Center offers the most comprehensive care, with high-quality ratings, accreditation, and a wide range of specialized services. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital is another strong option with a good level of care.

Patients should consult with their primary care physicians, gather information about each hospital's services, and consider their individual circumstances when making a decision. Factors such as the stage of cancer, treatment preferences, access to support systems, and comfort level with the healthcare providers should all be taken into account. Ultimately, the goal is to find a hospital and a team of healthcare professionals who can provide the best possible care and support throughout the breast cancer journey.