18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18510)

Finding the best breast cancer care is a complex undertaking. This review analyzes hospitals near Scranton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18510), focusing on factors crucial for informed decision-making: quality metrics, specialized services, accessibility, and patient experience. We'll delve into flagship hospitals, their performance, and the resources available to patients in this region.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players**

The healthcare landscape near Scranton is dominated by a few key players, each offering varying levels of breast cancer services. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is vital. We'll consider the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on access to care and the availability of screening programs.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Health System, with its main campus in Danville, PA, (approximately 80 miles from Scranton) is a significant regional presence. While not directly in the 18510 ZIP code, its influence is substantial. Geisinger’s commitment to integrated care and research is noteworthy.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a flagship hospital, boasts a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite of quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and mortality. While not a top-tier rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care. Specific breast cancer metrics are available through CMS Hospital Compare, including data on screening mammography rates and timely follow-up care.

**Geisinger Cancer Institute:** Geisinger Cancer Institute, encompassing multiple locations, provides comprehensive cancer care. The institute offers multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. They emphasize a patient-centered approach, offering services like genetic counseling and clinical trials.

**Accessibility and Telehealth at Geisinger:** Geisinger has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly important for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges. Telehealth appointments for oncology consultations, follow-up care, and supportive services can improve access to care. Check the Geisinger website for current telehealth availability and specific services offered in the Scranton area.

**Community Health Systems: Local Options**

Community Health Systems operates several hospitals in the Scranton area, providing local access to healthcare services. The quality of care can vary significantly between facilities.

**Commonwealth Health: Regional Network** Commonwealth Health, a network of hospitals in the Scranton area, offers breast cancer services. Information on specific breast cancer programs, accreditations, and patient outcomes can be found on the Commonwealth Health website.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton:** Regional Hospital of Scranton is a key provider within the Commonwealth Health network. Assessing its breast cancer services requires a focused evaluation. The hospital's CMS star rating is crucial. Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information on their performance. Investigate their accreditation status from organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.

**Other Local Hospitals:** Other local hospitals, such as Moses Taylor Hospital, may also offer breast cancer screening and treatment services. Researching each hospital's offerings is essential.

**Evaluating Key Metrics: Beyond Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview, but a deeper dive is necessary.

**Mammography Screening Rates:** High mammography screening rates are a positive indicator. Look for hospitals that actively promote screening and offer convenient access to mammograms.

**Timeliness of Care:** Evaluate the time from diagnosis to treatment. Delays can negatively impact outcomes. Inquire about average wait times for appointments with specialists, diagnostic tests, and surgery.

**Surgical Outcomes:** Research the hospital's surgical outcomes for breast cancer procedures. Look for data on complication rates, reoperation rates, and patient satisfaction.

**Radiation Therapy:** Assess the availability and quality of radiation therapy services, including advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Chemotherapy Services:** Investigate the chemotherapy services offered, including the availability of experienced oncology nurses, supportive care services, and access to clinical trials.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience is paramount.

**Patient Satisfaction Surveys:** Review patient satisfaction scores, often available on the CMS Hospital Compare website or through third-party websites. These scores reflect patient perceptions of their care.

**Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. These services can significantly improve the patient experience.

**Communication and Education:** Evaluate the hospital's communication with patients. Does the hospital provide clear and understandable information about the diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects?

**Accessibility: Navigating the System**

Accessibility is critical.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan. Understand the out-of-pocket costs associated with treatment.

**Transportation:** Consider transportation options, especially if you live in a rural area or have mobility limitations. Some hospitals offer transportation assistance programs.

**Language Services:** Ensure that the hospital provides language services if needed.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** While not directly related to breast cancer care, ER wait times can indicate overall hospital efficiency. Shorter wait times are generally preferable. Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for ER wait time data.

**Specialty Centers: Focused Expertise**

Specialty centers often offer more focused expertise.

**Breast Centers of Excellence:** Look for hospitals that have been designated as Breast Centers of Excellence by organizations like the American College of Radiology. These designations indicate that the hospital meets rigorous standards for breast imaging and care.

**Multidisciplinary Teams:** Ensure that the hospital has a multidisciplinary team of specialists who collaborate on patient care. This team should include medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and nurses.

**Clinical Trials:** Investigate the hospital's participation in clinical trials. Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:** Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments for consultations, follow-up care, and supportive services. Remote monitoring technologies can help track patient symptoms and provide timely interventions.

**The Bottom Line: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the best breast cancer care requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Evaluate the hospitals near Scranton based on their quality metrics, specialized services, accessibility, and patient experience. Utilize resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website, the American Cancer Society, and the National Cancer Institute to gather information. Consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to discuss your individual needs and preferences. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek second opinions. By taking a proactive approach, you can find the best possible care for your specific situation. Remember that the best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care.