18929, Jamison, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18929, Jamison, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Doylestown Area: A Scorecard

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near Doylestown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18929), evaluating their capabilities and performance based on publicly available data. This information is intended to provide a comprehensive overview, but it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your physician.

**The Landscape: A Focus on Bucks County**

The primary hospitals serving the Doylestown area are located within Bucks County, Pennsylvania. These institutions offer varying levels of specialization and resources in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Proximity to Philadelphia also provides access to major medical centers, expanding options for patients.

**Doylestown Hospital: A Core Provider**

Doylestown Hospital is a central healthcare provider for the region. It holds a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a generally good level of care. This rating considers factors such as patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. However, it's essential to understand that CMS star ratings are a general indicator and do not always reflect the nuances of specialized services like breast cancer care.

Doylestown Hospital features a dedicated breast health center. They offer a range of services, including mammography, breast ultrasound, and biopsies. The hospital also provides surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy. Patients have access to medical oncology services, which include chemotherapy and other systemic treatments. Radiation oncology services are available in partnership with other providers. The hospital's website provides information on its breast cancer program and its team of specialists.

**Emergency Room Considerations at Doylestown Hospital**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for patients needing immediate care. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, Doylestown Hospital's average ER wait times are generally in line with or slightly better than the national average. It is important to note that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Doylestown Hospital has a cancer institute that offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This means that patients benefit from the coordinated efforts of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The hospital also offers support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Abington Hospital – Jefferson Health: A Regional Powerhouse**

Located approximately 20 miles from Doylestown, Abington Hospital – Jefferson Health is a major regional medical center. It is a larger hospital with a broader range of services and a five-star CMS rating. This higher rating reflects its overall performance across a wider spectrum of healthcare metrics.

Abington Hospital's Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center offers comprehensive breast cancer services. They have a dedicated breast care center with advanced imaging capabilities, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis). The hospital's surgeons perform a wide range of surgical procedures, including breast reconstruction.

**Abington's Oncology Services**

Abington Hospital provides comprehensive medical oncology services, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. They also have a robust radiation oncology department with advanced technologies like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Emergency Department at Abington Hospital**

Abington Hospital's ER sees a high volume of patients. Consequently, ER wait times can be longer than at smaller hospitals. While this data is constantly changing, patients should be prepared for potential wait times, particularly during peak hours.

**Access to Philadelphia Medical Centers**

The proximity to Philadelphia provides access to some of the nation's leading medical institutions, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and Fox Chase Cancer Center. These institutions offer specialized expertise and access to clinical trials.

**Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP): Advanced Care**

HUP is a renowned academic medical center. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation. HUP's Abramson Cancer Center is a major center for cancer care, including breast cancer. They offer cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

**HUP's Breast Cancer Program**

The Abramson Cancer Center provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They have a team of highly specialized physicians, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons. HUP offers advanced imaging technologies, including MRI and PET scans. They also have a strong focus on clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest research and treatment options.

**Fox Chase Cancer Center: A Cancer-Focused Institution**

Fox Chase Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. This designation signifies a high level of expertise and research in cancer care. Fox Chase is dedicated solely to cancer treatment and research.

**Fox Chase's Breast Cancer Expertise**

Fox Chase offers a full range of breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They have a dedicated breast cancer program with a team of specialists. Fox Chase is known for its expertise in complex breast cancer cases and its focus on clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth and virtual care options are increasingly important for patients. Both Doylestown Hospital and Abington Hospital offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. Access to telehealth services at HUP and Fox Chase may be more limited, but they are also expanding their virtual care capabilities.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care involves several factors. Consider the following:

* **Specialization:** Does the hospital have a dedicated breast cancer center with experienced specialists?
* **Technology:** Does the hospital offer advanced imaging and treatment technologies?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital offer a multidisciplinary team of specialists who work together to provide coordinated care?
* **Patient Experience:** What is the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction and support services?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?
* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for care?
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Does the hospital offer access to clinical trials for innovative treatments?
* **ER Wait Times:** If you require immediate care, consider the ER wait times at the hospital.

**Data Sources and Limitations**

This review relies on publicly available data from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable sources. However, it is important to note that data can change, and this review is not exhaustive. The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your physician to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Patients in the Doylestown area have access to a range of hospitals with varying levels of breast cancer care expertise. Doylestown Hospital provides a local option with a dedicated breast health center. Abington Hospital offers more comprehensive services and a higher CMS rating. Access to Philadelphia hospitals, like HUP and Fox Chase, provides access to specialized expertise and clinical trials. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make an informed decision about where to receive their breast cancer care. Remember to prioritize consultation with your physician to determine the best fit for your individual needs.