19022, Crum Lynne, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19022, Crum Lynne, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Philadelphia Suburbs: A Review of Hospitals Near 19022

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. For residents near the 19022 ZIP code (primarily in the Bryn Mawr area of Pennsylvania), several prominent hospitals offer comprehensive services. This review examines the key players, focusing on factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, aiming to provide a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**The Flagship Institutions: A Deep Dive**

The Philadelphia region boasts several nationally recognized healthcare institutions, and their proximity to 19022 makes them primary considerations.

**Main Line Health System: Lankenau Medical Center**

Lankenau Medical Center, located in Wynnewood, PA, is a major player in the region. While it doesn't have a dedicated CMS star rating specifically for breast cancer care, its overall CMS rating fluctuates, often landing in the 3-4 star range. This rating reflects general hospital performance, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Lankenau houses the **Breast Health Center at Lankenau**, a dedicated facility offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients can expect to see a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and radiologists, all working collaboratively. The center provides comprehensive services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care. They offer advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI.

ER wait times at Lankenau can vary, but the hospital generally strives to keep them within a reasonable timeframe. Real-time wait times are often available on their website and through third-party apps. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing for virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions and post-treatment care. The hospital has invested in telehealth infrastructure, including secure video conferencing platforms.

**University of Pennsylvania Health System: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP)**

The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), located in Philadelphia, is a renowned academic medical center. It consistently receives high marks, including a 4-5 star rating from CMS. This reflects its commitment to quality and patient safety. While HUP is a bit further from 19022 than Lankenau, it is still a feasible option for many residents.

HUP's **Abramson Cancer Center** is a nationally recognized cancer center, offering a full spectrum of breast cancer services. The Abramson Cancer Center provides access to cutting-edge clinical trials and innovative treatment options, including the latest surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy regimens. The center also emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists working together to create individualized treatment plans.

ER wait times at HUP can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital provides real-time wait time information on its website and through mobile apps. Telehealth is a growing area, with virtual consultations and remote monitoring services available, particularly for follow-up appointments and managing side effects.

**Jefferson Health System: Thomas Jefferson University Hospital**

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, also located in Philadelphia, is another major academic medical center serving the region. It also generally receives high CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.

Jefferson's **Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center** offers comprehensive breast cancer care. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists dedicated to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The Kimmel Cancer Center offers advanced imaging, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology services. They are also actively involved in clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest research and treatment options.

ER wait times at Jefferson can vary. The hospital provides real-time wait time information on its website. Telehealth services are available, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring options, particularly for follow-up care and managing side effects.

**Other Important Considerations: Specialty Centers and Community Hospitals**

Beyond the flagship institutions, several other hospitals and specialty centers near 19022 provide valuable breast cancer care.

**Bryn Mawr Hospital (Main Line Health)**

Bryn Mawr Hospital, part of the Main Line Health System, is located within the 19022 area. It offers a comprehensive breast health program. While it might not have the same level of research and clinical trial access as HUP or Jefferson, it provides excellent local access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The hospital's proximity and community focus make it a convenient option for many residents.

**Specialty Centers:**

Several specialized breast centers may be considered. These centers often focus on specific aspects of breast cancer care, such as imaging, surgery, or radiation therapy. Researching these centers and their specific expertise can be beneficial, depending on individual needs.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant concern, especially during a health crisis. Checking real-time wait times online or via mobile apps is crucial. Factors like the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition can influence wait times. Hospitals are constantly working to improve efficiency and reduce wait times, but it remains a key factor in choosing a hospital.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing side effects. Hospitals near 19022 are expanding their telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. These services can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide greater convenience for patients.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovation**

For some patients, access to clinical trials is a critical consideration. HUP and Jefferson, as major academic medical centers, offer extensive clinical trial programs. Lankenau also participates in clinical trials, though to a lesser extent. Patients interested in clinical trials should discuss this option with their oncologist.

**Insurance Coverage and Network Considerations**

Insurance coverage is a crucial factor. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and physicians they are considering. Checking the hospital's website or contacting the insurance provider can help determine in-network status and coverage details.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and experiences can provide valuable insights. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews offer patient ratings and comments. However, it's important to consider that reviews can be subjective and may not always reflect the overall quality of care.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the best hospital for breast cancer care is a highly personal decision. Factors to consider include: proximity, insurance coverage, the expertise of the medical team, access to clinical trials, patient reviews, and the availability of telehealth services. Researching the hospitals near 19022, comparing their strengths and weaknesses, and consulting with your primary care physician and oncologist are essential steps in making an informed choice. The best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care.