18974, Warminster, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 18974, Warminster, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Bucks County: A Review for ZIP Code 18974

The ZIP code 18974, encompassing the town of Wrightstown, Pennsylvania, places residents within a relatively accessible radius of several hospitals offering breast cancer care. This review analyzes the key players in the region, focusing on factors crucial to patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and the availability of telehealth options.

**The Landscape of Care:**

The dominant healthcare providers in the vicinity include Doylestown Hospital, St. Mary Medical Center, and hospitals within the larger University of Pennsylvania Health System. These institutions, along with smaller regional facilities, form the core of breast cancer care options for residents of 18974. The proximity of Philadelphia, roughly an hour's drive, also opens doors to world-renowned cancer centers.

**Doylestown Hospital: A Strong Local Presence**

Doylestown Hospital, located in Doylestown, is a prominent choice for residents of 18974. It's a community hospital with a strong reputation. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, Doylestown Hospital generally performs well in patient safety and overall quality metrics. This hospital has a dedicated cancer institute. The hospital’s cancer institute offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans. Doylestown Hospital boasts a breast health center, offering comprehensive services from screening mammograms to diagnostic procedures and surgical interventions. ER wait times are a critical factor for patients. Doylestown Hospital's ER wait times tend to be in line with the regional average. These wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**St. Mary Medical Center: Comprehensive Services**

St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne is another major player. St. Mary is part of Trinity Health. St. Mary has a comprehensive cancer program. St. Mary Medical Center offers a range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services. The hospital has a dedicated breast center, providing screening, diagnosis, and treatment options. St. Mary’s CMS star ratings have been variable, so it is important to check the most recent data. ER wait times at St. Mary Medical Center are also subject to fluctuations, but the hospital generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times. The hospital offers telehealth options, which have become increasingly important for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**The University of Pennsylvania Health System: Access to Specialized Care**

The University of Pennsylvania Health System, with its flagship hospitals in Philadelphia, provides access to highly specialized cancer care. Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center is a nationally recognized cancer center. While a drive from 18974, the Abramson Cancer Center offers cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and access to renowned specialists. This can be especially important for patients with complex or advanced-stage breast cancer. Patients considering Penn Medicine should factor in travel time and potential wait times for appointments. The Abramson Cancer Center has a strong reputation for research and innovation in breast cancer treatment.

**Assessing Key Factors:**

Several factors are crucial when evaluating breast cancer care options.

**Screening and Early Detection:** Access to screening mammograms is paramount. Both Doylestown Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center offer screening services. Patients should inquire about the availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of small cancers.

**Diagnostic Services:** Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential. Hospitals should offer a full range of diagnostic services, including biopsies, ultrasounds, and MRI.

**Treatment Options:** The availability of a multidisciplinary team is critical. This team should include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, such as pathologists and radiologists. Treatment options should include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Hospitals should offer support services, such as counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation programs.

**Telehealth and Accessibility:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options. Accessibility is another key consideration. Patients should consider the distance to the hospital, parking availability, and ease of navigation within the facility.

**Specific Considerations for 18974 Residents:**

Residents of 18974 should consider the proximity of each hospital. Doylestown Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center are closer than the hospitals in Philadelphia. However, the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania offers access to specialized care and clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

ER wait times are a significant concern. Patients should research the average wait times at each hospital. Accessibility is also important. Consider the ease of parking, the availability of public transportation, and the overall convenience of the location.

**Telehealth Adoption:**

Telehealth options can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at each hospital. This can reduce the need for travel and make it easier to stay connected with their care team.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

For patients with advanced or complex breast cancer, access to clinical trials can be life-changing. The Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania is a leader in breast cancer research and offers numerous clinical trials. Patients should discuss their eligibility for clinical trials with their oncologist.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Patients should research online reviews and ask for recommendations from their primary care physician or other healthcare providers.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of 18974 should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel?
* **Specialty Centers:** Do you need access to specialized care?
* **Treatment Options:** What treatment options are available?
* **Support Services:** What support services are offered?
* **Telehealth:** Are telehealth options available?
* **Patient Reviews:** What do other patients say?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance?

**Conclusion:**

The region surrounding 18974 offers a range of breast cancer care options. Doylestown Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center provide comprehensive services and convenient access. The University of Pennsylvania Health System offers access to specialized care and cutting-edge treatments. Patients should research each hospital, considering their individual needs and preferences, to make an informed decision about their care. Prioritizing screening, early detection, and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment are key to successful outcomes.