18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18519, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18519)**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision, demanding a thorough assessment of available resources, expertise, and patient experience. This review focuses on hospitals near Scranton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18519), providing a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making. The analysis incorporates data on hospital quality, specialty centers, wait times, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Scranton Area**

The Scranton area is served by a network of hospitals, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses in breast cancer care. The primary institutions to consider include Geisinger Community Medical Center, Moses Taylor Hospital, and Regional Hospital of Scranton. These facilities offer varying levels of specialization, technology, and access to support services.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), located in Scranton, is a prominent healthcare provider in the region. It is part of the larger Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated care model and commitment to research. GCMC's breast cancer program is a key component of its overall oncology services.

GCMC boasts a strong reputation for its comprehensive cancer care. The hospital's breast cancer program likely offers a multidisciplinary approach, involving medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. This collaborative model is crucial for developing individualized treatment plans.

While specific CMS star ratings for GCMC fluctuate, it is essential to consult the most recent data available on the CMS Hospital Compare website. This resource provides valuable insights into quality metrics such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Moses Taylor Hospital: A Focus on Specialized Care**

Moses Taylor Hospital, also in Scranton, is another major player in the local healthcare scene. The hospital has a history of providing specialized care, including services for breast cancer patients.

Moses Taylor Hospital likely features a dedicated breast center, offering diagnostic imaging services like mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The availability of advanced imaging technologies is crucial for early detection and accurate staging of breast cancer.

Like GCMC, Moses Taylor Hospital's CMS star rating should be verified on the CMS Hospital Compare website. This will give patients a snapshot of the hospital's performance based on federal standards.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton: Community-Focused Care**

Regional Hospital of Scranton provides healthcare services to the Scranton community. The hospital's breast cancer program likely caters to a broad range of patients, offering a mix of diagnostic, treatment, and support services.

Regional Hospital's approach to breast cancer care likely includes surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital's focus on community care means it might emphasize patient education and support groups.

The CMS Hospital Compare website is the best source for Regional Hospital's current star rating and other quality metrics.

**Analyzing Key Metrics: Quality, Wait Times, and Telehealth**

Beyond the general reputation of a hospital, several key metrics influence the quality of breast cancer care. These include CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of telehealth services.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance across various quality measures. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, provide a valuable, albeit simplified, snapshot of a hospital's overall quality.

Patients should consult the CMS Hospital Compare website to access the most current star ratings for each hospital under consideration. The ratings are based on factors such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**ER Wait Times: A Reflection of Access**

ER wait times can be an indicator of a hospital's overall efficiency and capacity. While not directly related to breast cancer care, long wait times can be stressful and can impact the timeliness of care for patients with related complications.

Information on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites or through online resources like Google. Shorter wait times generally indicate better access to care.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for cancer patients. Telehealth services can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.

Hospitals in the Scranton area are likely expanding their telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, access to remote monitoring, and online support resources.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise and Technology**

Specialty centers dedicated to breast cancer care often offer a higher level of expertise and access to advanced technologies. These centers typically have multidisciplinary teams, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses.

Look for hospitals with dedicated breast centers that offer comprehensive services, including:

* **Advanced Imaging:** Digital mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound.
* **Surgical Options:** Lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** External beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Testing and risk assessment for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.
* **Support Services:** Nurse navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation services.

**Patient Experience: A Crucial Element**

Patient experience is a vital aspect of breast cancer care. It encompasses factors such as communication, emotional support, and the overall comfort of the care environment.

Patients should research hospitals' patient satisfaction scores, often available through the CMS Hospital Compare website and other patient feedback platforms. Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

**Specific Considerations for 18519 Residents**

For residents of ZIP code 18519, proximity and ease of access are important factors. Consider the following:

* **Travel Time:** Evaluate the travel time to each hospital, considering traffic and parking availability.
* **Transportation:** Explore transportation options, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, and hospital shuttle services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about the availability of support services, such as counseling, financial assistance, and support groups, that are convenient to your location.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care requires careful consideration of various factors, including hospital quality, specialty centers, wait times, and telehealth capabilities. Residents of ZIP code 18519 should research the hospitals in the Scranton area, consult the CMS Hospital Compare website, and seek recommendations from their primary care physicians. By gathering comprehensive information and evaluating their individual needs, patients can make an informed decision and receive the best possible care.