17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Shadow of the Blue Mountains: A Review for ZIP Code 17929

Finding the best breast cancer care near your home is a critical undertaking. This review analyzes the hospitals closest to ZIP code 17929 (the area surrounding Cressona, Pennsylvania) focusing on factors relevant to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. We'll examine hospital quality metrics, specialty centers, and access to care, providing a clear picture for patients and their families.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of Cressona offers a limited selection of hospitals. The closest options are generally located within a 30-45 minute drive, primarily in Pottsville and Reading. This necessitates considering travel time, particularly during potential emergencies or for frequent appointments.

**Reading Hospital (Reading, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Reading Hospital, part of Tower Health, is a major player in the region. It's a large, comprehensive hospital with a strong reputation. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Reading Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating**. While not the highest possible score, this rating reflects overall quality and performance, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and timeliness.

Reading Hospital boasts a dedicated **Reading Hospital Cancer Center**, which is a key asset for breast cancer patients. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The center provides a full spectrum of services, from screening and diagnosis to surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care.

**ER Wait Times at Reading Hospital:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's essential to be aware of average wait times. Information on ER wait times is available on hospital websites and third-party platforms like Google. The most recent data suggests that Reading Hospital's ER wait times are typically within the regional average, but it's always advisable to check current conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Services at Reading Hospital:**

The Reading Hospital Cancer Center offers specialized programs. These include genetic counseling for patients with a family history of breast cancer, advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and access to clinical trials. They also have support groups and resources for patients and their families.

**Telehealth Integration at Reading Hospital:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for healthcare access. Reading Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations for certain appointments, follow-up visits, and support services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility limitations. Check the hospital's website for a list of available telehealth services.

**St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus (Coaldale, PA): A Closer Option**

St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus in Coaldale, PA, is a smaller hospital that is closer to Cressona. This hospital is part of the larger St. Luke's University Health Network. It is a community hospital that offers a range of services, including cancer care.

**CMS Star Rating and Services:**

St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus does not have a CMS star rating. This doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but it means the hospital's performance hasn't been formally evaluated by CMS.

St. Luke's Miners Campus does provide cancer care services. This includes diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital has a cancer center that offers a range of support services.

**ER Wait Times at St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus:**

ER wait times at St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus are generally shorter than at larger hospitals. However, this can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Specialty Centers and Services at St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus:**

St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus offers a range of cancer care services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The hospital also has a cancer center that provides support services for patients and their families.

**Telehealth Integration at St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus:**

St. Luke's University Health Network has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations for certain appointments, follow-up visits, and support services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility limitations. Check the hospital's website for a list of available telehealth services.

**Other Considerations:**

**Geisinger Health System:** While not directly within the immediate vicinity of Cressona, the Geisinger Health System is a significant healthcare provider in Pennsylvania. Geisinger offers comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer services, at various locations. Patients may consider traveling to a Geisinger facility for specialized treatment options.

**Diagnostic Imaging:**

Access to high-quality diagnostic imaging is crucial for breast cancer detection and monitoring. Both Reading Hospital and St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus offer mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). It's important to inquire about the availability of these advanced technologies and the qualifications of the radiologists who interpret the images.

**Surgical Options:**

Surgical options for breast cancer vary. Both hospitals offer breast cancer surgery, including lumpectomies and mastectomies. Patients should discuss surgical options with their oncologist and surgeon to determine the best approach for their individual needs.

**Radiation Therapy:**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. Both hospitals offer radiation therapy services. Patients should inquire about the types of radiation therapy offered, such as external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

**Chemotherapy:**

Chemotherapy is often used to treat breast cancer. Both hospitals offer chemotherapy services. Patients should discuss chemotherapy options with their oncologist to determine the best approach for their individual needs.

**Support Services:**

Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Both hospitals offer support services for patients and their families, including support groups, counseling, and patient navigators.

**Patient Experience and Reviews:**

Researching patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can offer perspectives from other patients. However, it's important to remember that individual experiences can vary.

**Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance programs offered by the hospitals.

**Second Opinions:**

Seeking a second opinion from another oncologist or specialist is always a good idea, especially when facing a serious diagnosis like breast cancer. This can help patients feel more confident in their treatment plan.

**Key Takeaways for ZIP Code 17929 Residents:**

* **Reading Hospital:** Is the largest and most comprehensive option with a dedicated cancer center and a 3-star CMS rating. It offers a wide range of services, but requires travel time.
* **St. Luke's Hospital- Miners Campus:** Is a closer option with cancer care services.
* **Geisinger Health System:** May be a viable option for those willing to travel for specialized care.
* **Proximity Matters:** Consider the impact of travel time on appointments, treatments, and emergencies.
* **Research Thoroughly:** Investigate each hospital's specific services, technologies, and patient support programs.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask doctors, nurses, and hospital staff about any concerns.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth options for convenience and access to care.

This review provides a starting point for navigating breast cancer care near ZIP code 17929. Patients should conduct their own research, consult with their primary care physicians, and make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences. The best choice is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the most convenient access, and the greatest level of support.