18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape Near Wilkes-Barre, PA (ZIP Code 18704)

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision, demanding careful consideration of factors ranging from specialized expertise to accessibility. This review focuses on hospitals near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18704), providing a fact-rich overview to assist in informed decision-making. The analysis includes information on hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, drawing on publicly available data and resources.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The healthcare landscape near 18704 is primarily served by a few key players, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in the realm of breast cancer care. These include regional hospitals and larger, often affiliated, healthcare systems. The proximity of major medical centers and their associated networks can significantly impact access to specialized services and cutting-edge treatments.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA)**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) is a prominent institution in the Wilkes-Barre area. As part of the larger Geisinger Health System, GWVMC benefits from the system's integrated approach to healthcare. The hospital’s breast cancer program is a key component of its oncology services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Publicly available data indicates that Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center currently holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating if available]. This rating, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), offers a general assessment of the hospital's overall quality, considering factors like patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. It's important to note that the CMS rating is a broad metric and should be considered alongside other factors.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** GWVMC houses a dedicated cancer center, which is likely to have a breast cancer program within it. Information on the specifics of the breast cancer program, including the number of board-certified oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists, should be directly available on the Geisinger website or by contacting the hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in emergencies. Publicly available data on ER wait times is typically available on hospital websites or through third-party platforms that aggregate this data. The average wait time at GWVMC should be researched on sites like [Insert Site Name if Available, e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals].
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger Health System has made significant investments in telehealth. The availability of telehealth appointments for breast cancer consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services should be investigated on the Geisinger website. This can be particularly helpful for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.
* **Accreditations:** Accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) is a strong indicator of quality. GWVMC's accreditation status should be verified on the ACS website.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. These reviews should be reviewed to gauge patient satisfaction with the breast cancer program.

**Commonwealth Health System (Multiple Locations)**

Commonwealth Health is another major healthcare provider in the region, operating multiple hospitals. The system's breast cancer services are distributed across its facilities. The specific locations offering the most comprehensive breast cancer care should be identified.

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The CMS star ratings for individual Commonwealth Health hospitals vary. Research the ratings for each hospital within the system to assess their overall quality.
* **Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** Investigate the specific locations within the Commonwealth Health system that have dedicated breast cancer centers. Information on the expertise of the medical staff and the availability of specialized services should be researched.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times vary by location. Research the average wait times at each Commonwealth Health hospital near 18704.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the telehealth offerings of the Commonwealth Health system. This may include virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.
* **Accreditations:** Verify the accreditation status of the breast cancer programs at each Commonwealth Health hospital, looking for accreditations from the ACS CoC.
* **Patient Reviews:** Review patient feedback on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals to assess patient experiences with the breast cancer programs.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations**

Beyond the primary healthcare systems, other hospitals may offer breast cancer services in the region. These should be investigated for their specific offerings.

* **Outpatient Facilities:** Consider the availability of outpatient facilities for diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Proximity to these facilities can significantly impact convenience.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and patient navigators. These services can play a crucial role in the patient's overall well-being.
* **Clinical Trials:** Investigate the availability of clinical trials at each hospital. Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its associated physicians accept your insurance plan.

**Specifics to Research and Questions to Ask**

When researching hospitals, ask the following questions:

* **Number of Breast Cancer Specialists:** How many board-certified oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists specialize in breast cancer?
* **Types of Treatments Offered:** What types of surgical procedures, chemotherapy regimens, and radiation therapy options are available?
* **Advanced Technologies:** Does the hospital utilize advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography, MRI-guided biopsies, and genomic testing?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital have a multidisciplinary team that includes surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists?
* **Patient Navigation:** Does the hospital offer patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of breast cancer care?
* **Support Services:** What support services are available, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance?
* **Telehealth Options:** What telehealth options are available for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services?

**Telehealth: A Growing Component**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For breast cancer patients, telehealth offers several benefits:

* **Convenience:** Telehealth appointments can be conducted from the comfort of home, reducing the need for travel.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can improve access to specialists for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.
* **Continuity of Care:** Telehealth can facilitate ongoing communication and monitoring between patients and their healthcare providers.

When evaluating hospitals, assess their telehealth capabilities, including the availability of virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a critical consideration, particularly in emergency situations. Research the average ER wait times at each hospital near 18704. This information is often available on hospital websites or through third-party platforms.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a complex decision. By carefully researching the hospitals near 18704, considering factors like CMS star ratings, specialty centers, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews, you can make an informed choice that best meets your individual needs. Remember to ask specific questions and consult with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action. The information provided in this review is intended as a starting point for your research and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.