18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near 18818**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a critical decision, demanding careful consideration of factors like expertise, technology, and patient experience. This review focuses on hospitals near the 18818 ZIP code, providing a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. The information presented is based on publicly available data and aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the available options.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 18818 ZIP code encompasses the area surrounding Towanda, Pennsylvania. Access to specialized breast cancer care in this region may require travel to larger medical centers. This review will explore hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both local facilities and regional hubs.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance across various quality measures. These ratings offer a general indication of overall hospital quality.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):** This hospital, a significant regional medical center, is a key player in the area. It is part of the Guthrie Clinic, a large integrated healthcare system. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it is crucial to check the most recent data on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital is known for its comprehensive cancer care services, including a dedicated cancer institute.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital (Williamsport, PA):** Located further south, this hospital is part of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system. UPMC is a large, well-regarded healthcare network. CMS star ratings should be consulted directly for the most up-to-date information. This hospital offers a range of cancer services, including those for breast cancer.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA):** Geisinger is another major healthcare system in the region. It’s important to check the most current CMS star ratings for Geisinger Medical Center. Geisinger is known for its innovative approaches to healthcare and its comprehensive cancer programs.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle urgent medical needs. While wait times vary, they are a factor to consider.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** Publicly available data often shows the ER wait times for this hospital. Checking recent reports from the hospital itself or third-party sources can provide the most accurate information.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** ER wait times are also tracked and reported for this hospital. The hospital's website or resources like the Healthgrades website can provide insights.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** ER wait times are a key metric for this hospital. Recent data should be consulted to understand current performance.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise**

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers is a crucial factor in evaluating a hospital's capabilities. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** The Guthrie Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care, including specialized breast cancer services. They likely have a dedicated breast cancer program.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** This hospital, part of the UPMC system, should have access to UPMC's robust cancer network and resources. It likely has a breast cancer center or program.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger's Cancer Institute is a major provider of cancer care in the region. It has a breast cancer program with a multidisciplinary team.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote patient monitoring. This technology can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** The Guthrie Clinic likely offers telehealth services, including options for cancer patients. Details on specific telehealth programs can be found on their website.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC is a leader in telehealth. It likely offers telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger has a strong telehealth presence. It offers telehealth services, including options for cancer patients.

**Surgical Options and Technology**

The availability of advanced surgical techniques and technologies is crucial in breast cancer treatment.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** This hospital likely offers a range of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. They likely use advanced imaging and surgical tools.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC hospitals are known for their advanced surgical capabilities. This hospital likely offers a full spectrum of breast cancer surgeries.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger is known for its advanced medical technology. They likely offer a wide range of surgical options, including minimally invasive techniques.

**Radiation Therapy Capabilities**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for breast cancer. The availability of advanced radiation therapy technologies is an important factor.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** The Guthrie Cancer Institute likely has a radiation oncology department. They likely offer advanced radiation therapy options.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC hospitals often have state-of-the-art radiation therapy equipment. This hospital likely offers a full range of radiation therapy services.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger is known for its advanced cancer treatment capabilities. They likely have a comprehensive radiation oncology department.

**Chemotherapy and Medical Oncology**

Access to chemotherapy and medical oncology services is essential for breast cancer patients.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** The Guthrie Cancer Institute offers chemotherapy and medical oncology services.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC hospitals have robust medical oncology departments.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger has a strong medical oncology program.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a crucial factor. Support services like counseling, support groups, and patient navigators can significantly improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** The Guthrie Cancer Institute likely offers patient support services.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC hospitals typically provide comprehensive patient support services.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger is known for its patient-centered approach. They likely offer robust support services.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer care.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** The Guthrie Cancer Institute may participate in clinical trials.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC hospitals often participate in clinical trials.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Geisinger is known for its research efforts and may participate in clinical trials.

**Financial Considerations and Insurance**

Understanding the financial aspects of care is essential. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and financial assistance programs.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital:** Patients should contact the hospital's billing department to understand costs and insurance coverage.

**UPMC Williamsport Hospital:** Patients should contact the hospital's billing department to understand costs and insurance coverage.

**Geisinger Medical Center:** Patients should contact the hospital's billing department to understand costs and insurance coverage.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a starting point for research. Patients should:

* **Consult with their primary care physician:** Seek recommendations and guidance.
* **Research the hospitals:** Visit hospital websites, review patient testimonials, and compare services.
* **Ask questions:** Inquire about the experience of the medical team, treatment options, and support services.
* **Consider travel:** Be prepared to travel to access the best possible care.
* **Trust their instincts:** Choose the hospital and care team that feels right for them.

This review is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.