18424, Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18424, Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in Northeastern Pennsylvania: A Review for ZIP Code 18424**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents of the 18424 ZIP code, which encompasses the town of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, several hospitals and healthcare facilities offer specialized services. This review examines the key players in the region, focusing on factors crucial for breast cancer patients: hospital quality, specialized centers, wait times, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape of Care**

The primary hospitals serving the 18424 area are located in Scranton and surrounding communities. While Honesdale itself has a hospital, the more comprehensive cancer care is typically found in larger facilities with specialized resources. Proximity to major medical centers in New York City and Philadelphia is also a factor, though travel time must be considered.

**Geisinger Health System**

Geisinger Health System is a dominant healthcare provider in Northeastern Pennsylvania. It operates several hospitals and cancer centers, making it a central hub for breast cancer care. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, approximately an hour's drive from Honesdale, is a significant facility.

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. These ratings provide a general indicator of a hospital's performance. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center's CMS star rating is available on the CMS website. The rating should be reviewed for the most up-to-date information.

* **Specialized Centers:** Geisinger has established cancer centers that offer multidisciplinary care. These centers typically involve medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and support staff. The specifics of the breast cancer program, including the types of surgical procedures offered (e.g., lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery), should be confirmed directly with Geisinger.

* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are an important consideration, especially for patients experiencing complications. While precise wait times fluctuate, data is often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources like Healthgrades or Google.

* **Telehealth:** Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth services. These services are particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support groups. The availability of telehealth for breast cancer patients should be confirmed.

**Commonwealth Health**

Commonwealth Health is another major healthcare network in the region. It includes several hospitals, including Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton.

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Moses Taylor Hospital's CMS star rating should be reviewed on the CMS website for the most recent information.

* **Specialized Centers:** Moses Taylor Hospital and other Commonwealth Health facilities likely offer breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and chemotherapy. Specific program details should be verified directly.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be checked on the hospital's website or through external sources.

* **Telehealth:** Commonwealth Health's telehealth offerings should be investigated to determine what services are available for breast cancer patients.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the major hospital systems, several other factors are important for breast cancer patients in the 18424 area:

* **Cancer Centers:** The presence of dedicated cancer centers, either within hospitals or as freestanding facilities, often indicates a higher level of specialization and comprehensive care. These centers may offer support services such as counseling, nutrition guidance, and survivorship programs.

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) is a sign of quality. Accreditation means that the cancer program meets specific standards for patient care.

* **Surgeon Experience:** The experience and expertise of the surgeons and oncologists are critical. Patients should research the qualifications and experience of the medical professionals who will be involved in their care.

* **Radiology Services:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is essential for early detection and accurate diagnosis.

* **Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. The availability of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources can make a significant difference in a patient's experience.

**Specifics to Research**

To make informed decisions, residents of 18424 should conduct thorough research, focusing on the following:

* **Hospital Websites:** The websites of Geisinger, Commonwealth Health, and other local hospitals are the primary source of information. Look for details on breast cancer programs, services offered, physician profiles, and patient resources.

* **Physician Directories:** Hospital websites and third-party sites like Healthgrades and Vitals provide physician directories. These directories allow patients to research doctors' credentials, experience, and patient reviews.

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the chosen hospitals and providers are in-network with your health insurance plan.

* **Patient Reviews:** Reading patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of others. However, remember that reviews are subjective.

* **Consultations:** Schedule consultations with oncologists and surgeons to discuss your specific needs and preferences.

**Travel Time and Access**

The rural nature of the 18424 area means that travel time to specialized cancer centers is a factor. Patients should consider the distance to hospitals and factor in travel time for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. Transportation options may also be a consideration.

**Telehealth's Role**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. For breast cancer patients, telehealth can offer several benefits:

* **Convenience:** Telehealth appointments can be conducted from the comfort of home, reducing the need for travel.

* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can provide access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

* **Follow-up Care:** Telehealth is well-suited for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support group meetings.

* **Remote Monitoring:** Some telehealth programs offer remote monitoring of patients' symptoms and vital signs.

**Conclusion**

Breast cancer patients in the 18424 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options. Geisinger and Commonwealth Health are the major players, offering comprehensive cancer care services. The quality of care can be assessed through CMS star ratings, accreditation, and patient reviews. Patients should conduct thorough research, focusing on the specific services offered by each hospital, the experience of the medical professionals, and the availability of support services. Telehealth offers a valuable tool for managing care and increasing access to specialists. By carefully considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care for their breast cancer journey.