18656, Sweet Valley, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18656, Sweet Valley, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Poconos: A Scorecard for 18656

Finding the right healthcare, especially when facing a serious diagnosis like breast cancer, is paramount. This review provides a fact-based assessment of breast cancer care options near the 18656 ZIP code (Scranton, PA area), focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. The information is compiled from publicly available data, including Medicare.gov, hospital websites, and reputable medical databases. This is not medical advice, and individuals should consult with their physicians for personalized guidance.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the quality of the hospitals themselves. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a snapshot of overall hospital performance. However, it’s crucial to understand that these ratings are just one data point and don’t always reflect the nuances of specific specialties like breast cancer care.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA):** Located approximately 20 miles from the 18656 ZIP code, Geisinger Wyoming Valley is a major regional hospital. It holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects a general assessment of quality, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Geisinger is a large integrated health system, and its network offers comprehensive cancer care.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA):** Situated closer to the 18656 area, Moses Taylor Hospital is another significant healthcare provider. It currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. Moses Taylor is part of the Commonwealth Health network, offering a range of services, including cancer treatment.

**Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):** Also located in Scranton, Community Medical Center holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. It is part of the Lehigh Valley Health Network.

**Understanding CMS Star Ratings:** The CMS star ratings are a useful starting point, but they don't tell the whole story. The ratings are based on a variety of metrics, and the methodology can be complex. It's essential to delve deeper into specific services and programs offered by each hospital, especially those related to breast cancer.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Services**

Beyond general hospital ratings, the availability of specialized breast cancer centers and services is crucial. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

**Geisinger Cancer Institute:** Geisinger's network, including Geisinger Wyoming Valley, boasts a comprehensive cancer institute. They offer a range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy and targeted therapies), radiation oncology, and supportive care services. Geisinger also has a strong emphasis on clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments. They have dedicated breast cancer specialists and programs.

**Commonwealth Health Cancer Center (Moses Taylor Hospital):** Moses Taylor Hospital, as part of Commonwealth Health, has a cancer center that provides breast cancer care. The center offers a range of services, including diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care.

**Lehigh Valley Health Network Cancer Institute (Community Medical Center):** Community Medical Center, part of the Lehigh Valley Health Network, provides cancer care services.

**Key Breast Cancer Services to Look For:** When evaluating breast cancer centers, consider the following:

* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** The presence of a team of specialists working together is crucial.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to state-of-the-art mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and other imaging technologies is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Options:** Availability of various surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery, is important.
* **Medical Oncology:** The ability to provide chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Clinical Trials:** The opportunity to participate in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Supportive Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other supportive services can improve the patient experience.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing complications from treatment or needing urgent care. While wait times can fluctuate, they provide a general sense of how quickly patients are seen.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley's ER wait times are generally in line with the national average, but can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. Information on current wait times is often available on their website or through online tools.

**Moses Taylor Hospital:** Moses Taylor Hospital's ER wait times can also fluctuate. Information on current wait times is often available on their website or through online tools.

**Community Medical Center:** Community Medical Center's ER wait times can also fluctuate. Information on current wait times is often available on their website or through online tools.

**Accessibility Considerations:** Beyond wait times, consider the following:

* **Location and Transportation:** The proximity of the hospital and cancer center to your home and the availability of transportation options.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan.
* **Appointment Availability:** The ease of scheduling appointments with specialists.
* **Language Services:** If needed, the availability of interpreters or language services.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care.

**Geisinger:** Geisinger has significantly expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other services.

**Commonwealth Health:** Commonwealth Health also offers telehealth options, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Lehigh Valley Health Network:** Lehigh Valley Health Network offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Telehealth Statistics:** While specific telehealth usage statistics for breast cancer care in the 18656 area are not readily available, it's important to inquire about the availability of telehealth services when choosing a provider. Ask about:

* **Virtual Consultations:** The ability to have initial consultations or follow-up appointments via video.
* **Remote Monitoring:** The use of wearable devices or other technologies to monitor patients' health remotely.
* **Patient Portals:** Access to online portals for viewing medical records, communicating with providers, and scheduling appointments.

**Other Important Factors**

Beyond the core services, consider these additional factors:

* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the quality of care and the patient experience.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals and cancer centers accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC). Accreditation signifies that the center meets specific quality standards.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support groups, counseling, and other resources can significantly improve the patient's well-being.
* **Financial Assistance:** Inquire about financial assistance programs or payment options.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right breast cancer care provider is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating the options near the 18656 ZIP code. By considering hospital ratings, specialty services, accessibility, and telehealth options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your physician and other healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and recommendations. This review should be used as a starting point to inform your own research and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.