19125, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 19125, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 19125 Vicinity: A Detailed Review

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review provides a detailed look at the breast cancer care landscape for individuals residing near ZIP code 19125 (Philadelphia, PA), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. We will delve into the offerings of prominent institutions, considering metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape: Flagship Hospitals and Their Offerings**

The Philadelphia area boasts several renowned hospitals, each with its own strengths in breast cancer care. Two hospitals stand out as major players: **Temple University Hospital** and **Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia**. Both are located within a reasonable distance from the 19125 ZIP code.

**Temple University Hospital:** Temple University Hospital is a major academic medical center. It is home to the **Fox Chase Cancer Center**, a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This designation signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research, advanced treatment options, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. The hospital's breast cancer program benefits significantly from this association. CMS data from November 2023 shows Temple University Hospital with a 3-star rating, indicating average performance across various quality metrics.

Temple's breast cancer program offers a full spectrum of services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy), radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They have a dedicated breast cancer center within the Fox Chase Cancer Center, providing a centralized location for patient care. The hospital emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and other relevant fields collaborating on each patient's treatment plan.

While specific ER wait times fluctuate, Temple University Hospital generally experiences higher wait times compared to some other hospitals in the area, according to data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This can be a factor for patients seeking immediate care. Telehealth services are available, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific statistics on telehealth utilization for breast cancer patients are not readily available, but the hospital is actively expanding its telehealth offerings across various specialties.

**Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia:** Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia is another major hospital serving the 19125 area. It is part of the Jefferson Health system. Einstein's breast cancer program offers a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. The hospital's affiliation with Jefferson Health provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources. Einstein also has a dedicated breast health center. The CMS rating for Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia is 3 stars.

Einstein's breast cancer program emphasizes a patient-centered approach, with a focus on individualized treatment plans. They offer a variety of support services, including patient navigation, support groups, and survivorship programs. ER wait times at Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia vary, but are generally comparable to those at Temple University Hospital. Telehealth services are available, including virtual appointments for follow-up care and consultations.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations**

While Temple and Einstein are the most prominent hospitals near 19125, other facilities offer breast cancer care.

**Hahnemann University Hospital:** Hahnemann University Hospital, while now closed, previously offered breast cancer services. However, with its closure, patients in the 19125 area now have to seek care at other hospitals.

**Jefferson Health:** Jefferson Health has a significant presence in the Philadelphia area. While Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia is part of the Jefferson Health system, patients can also access breast cancer care at other Jefferson facilities, such as Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Thomas Jefferson University Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating. This hospital is a major academic medical center with a well-established breast cancer program.

**Specialized Centers and Programs**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialized centers and programs cater to breast cancer patients.

**Fox Chase Cancer Center:** As mentioned earlier, the Fox Chase Cancer Center at Temple University Hospital is a significant resource. Its NCI designation signifies a commitment to research and advanced treatments. The center offers clinical trials, access to cutting-edge therapies, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

**Jefferson Health's Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center:** This center, affiliated with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, is another major player in cancer care. It offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center is known for its research efforts and its focus on personalized medicine.

**Accessibility and Wait Times**

Accessibility is a crucial factor for patients. Factors like proximity to home, transportation options, and appointment availability are important considerations. ER wait times can be a significant concern, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications. Patients should inquire about appointment availability and wait times for diagnostic tests and consultations.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. Virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel. Both Temple University Hospital and Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia offer telehealth services. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options for their specific needs.

**Data and Statistics: A Caveat**

It is important to note that data on hospital performance, such as CMS star ratings, can be subject to change. ER wait times fluctuate. Specific statistics on telehealth utilization for breast cancer patients are often not readily available. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers for the most up-to-date information.

**Patient Navigation and Support Services**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be complex. Patient navigation services are designed to assist patients in coordinating their care, understanding their treatment options, and accessing support services. Both Temple University Hospital and Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia offer patient navigation services. Support groups, educational programs, and survivorship programs are also available to help patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges of breast cancer.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and priorities. Factors to consider include:

* **Hospital quality:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Specialized services:** Availability of advanced treatments, clinical trials, and specialized programs.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity to home, transportation options, and appointment availability.
* **Patient support:** Availability of patient navigation, support groups, and survivorship programs.
* **Physician expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team.

**Conclusion**

The 19125 area offers a range of options for breast cancer care, with Temple University Hospital and Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia being the major players. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, but patients should consider their individual needs and preferences when making a decision. The Fox Chase Cancer Center and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center provide specialized resources. Patients should research the options, consult with their healthcare providers, and make an informed decision that best meets their needs.