17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 17944, Llewellyn, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Vicinity of Pottsville, PA (ZIP Code 17944): A Hospital Review**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality healthcare, including specialized breast cancer care, is crucial. This review examines hospitals near Pottsville, PA (ZIP code 17944), focusing on their breast cancer services, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide information to help patients make informed decisions about their care.

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

St. Luke's Hospital – Miners Campus, located in Coaldale, PA, is a key healthcare provider in the region. While not directly within the 17944 ZIP code, it's a reasonable driving distance for many residents. This hospital is part of the larger St. Luke's University Health Network, which has a strong reputation for cancer care.

Unfortunately, specific CMS star ratings for St. Luke's – Miners Campus are not readily available. However, the St. Luke's University Health Network generally performs well in national rankings, and the network's commitment to cancer care is evident.

The hospital’s ER wait times are a critical factor. Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check current wait times using online resources or by calling the hospital directly before heading to the ER. This is especially important for cancer patients who may have urgent needs.

St. Luke's University Health Network has a comprehensive cancer care program, including breast cancer services. This often includes a multidisciplinary approach with medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively. The network likely offers advanced imaging services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, for diagnosis and staging.

Telehealth services are increasingly important. St. Luke's University Health Network likely offers telehealth options for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support groups. Patients should inquire about telehealth availability when scheduling appointments.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill (Pottsville, PA): Local Options**

Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill is located directly within the 17944 ZIP code, making it a convenient option for local residents. It's part of the Lehigh Valley Health Network, another major healthcare provider in the region.

CMS star ratings for Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill are available. Patients should check the most current ratings on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) to assess the hospital's overall quality of care. These ratings reflect a range of factors, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

ER wait times at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill are a crucial consideration. Patients should check the most up-to-date information on wait times, which can be found on the hospital’s website or through online resources. Long wait times can be particularly stressful for patients with potential cancer-related emergencies.

Lehigh Valley Health Network has a well-established cancer program, including breast cancer services. The hospital likely offers a range of diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. A multidisciplinary team of specialists is typically available to provide comprehensive care.

Telehealth services are likely available at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for appointments and follow-up care. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital (Orwigsburg, PA): A Regional Presence**

Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital, located in Orwigsburg, PA, is another option within a reasonable driving distance of Pottsville. This hospital is a collaboration between Geisinger Health System and St. Luke's University Health Network.

CMS star ratings for Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital should be checked on the CMS website. This will provide an overview of the hospital's performance across various quality metrics.

ER wait times at Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital are an important factor to consider. Patients should check for the most current information on ER wait times.

Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital provides breast cancer services through its affiliation with both Geisinger and St. Luke's. This likely includes access to a wide range of diagnostic and treatment options, as well as a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

Telehealth services are likely available at Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital. Patients should inquire about telehealth options.

**Other Considerations and Additional Information**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for breast cancer care.

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC). This accreditation signifies a commitment to high-quality cancer care.
* **Specialized Centers:** Some hospitals have dedicated breast centers, which offer a comprehensive range of services in one location. These centers often have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, advanced imaging technology, and support services.
* **Surgeon Experience:** When considering surgical options, research the experience and expertise of the surgeons. Consider their volume of breast cancer surgeries performed and their specific areas of specialization.
* **Patient Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as support groups, counseling, and patient navigators.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative treatments. Inquire about clinical trial availability at each hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network. Understand your out-of-pocket costs for treatment.
* **Transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the availability of transportation, especially for frequent appointments.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It can provide patients with convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas, have mobility issues, or have difficulty traveling to appointments.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs and preferences, as well as the factors discussed in this review. It's important to gather information from multiple sources, including the hospital's website, your primary care physician, and other healthcare professionals. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification.

**Disclaimer:** *This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs. Information on CMS star ratings and ER wait times is subject to change. Patients should always check the most current information on the relevant websites.*