29635, Cleveland, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29635, Cleveland, South Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Greenville, SC: A Comprehensive Review

Greenville, South Carolina, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a range of healthcare options for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis. This review focuses on the hospitals closest to the 29635 ZIP code, examining their breast cancer services, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is crucial for patients seeking the best possible care in a challenging situation.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Breast Cancer Programs**

The two major players in Greenville's healthcare landscape, Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System, are the primary destinations for breast cancer treatment. Both offer comprehensive services, but their approaches and strengths differ.

**Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital:**

Greenville Memorial Hospital, a large, tertiary care facility, is a flagship within the Prisma Health system. It boasts a strong reputation and is a major referral center for the region. Its breast cancer program is integrated within the larger Cancer Institute, providing a multidisciplinary approach to care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Greenville Memorial Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of care that meets national standards.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The hospital provides a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy), radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They also offer genetic counseling and testing for individuals at high risk.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Prisma Health Cancer Institute is a key component of the hospital's breast cancer care. It features specialized clinics and programs, including a breast health center and access to clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Greenville Memorial Hospital can fluctuate. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website and other sources indicate average wait times that can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. It is advisable to check real-time wait times on hospital websites or through third-party apps.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Prisma Health has invested in telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This can be particularly helpful for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. The availability of specific telehealth services for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Bon Secours St. Francis Health System:**

Bon Secours St. Francis Health System offers another significant option for breast cancer care in Greenville. This system emphasizes a patient-centered approach and spiritual care alongside medical treatment.

* **CMS Star Rating:** St. Francis has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher overall quality of care compared to Greenville Memorial. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** St. Francis provides a comprehensive range of breast cancer services, similar to Greenville Memorial. This includes diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and reconstructive surgery. They also have a dedicated breast center.
* **Specialty Centers:** St. Francis has a dedicated breast center, offering a multidisciplinary approach with a focus on personalized care. They also provide support services such as counseling and support groups.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at St. Francis can also fluctuate. It is important to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party apps.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** St. Francis also offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. The availability of specific telehealth services for breast cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several factors contribute to the overall quality of breast cancer care in the Greenville area.

**Access to Specialists:** Both Greenville Memorial and St. Francis have a robust network of specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and reconstructive surgeons. Access to these specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are important indicators of the quality of care. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website provide patient experience data, including ratings on communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and overall hospital rating.

**Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment often involves a range of support services, including counseling, support groups, physical therapy, and nutritional counseling. Both Greenville Memorial and St. Francis offer these services, and patients should inquire about the availability of these resources.

**Proximity and Convenience:** The location of the hospitals relative to the 29635 ZIP code is a key consideration. Both Greenville Memorial and St. Francis are accessible from this area, but travel times and traffic conditions should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Financial Considerations:** The cost of breast cancer treatment can be significant. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options. Both hospitals have financial counselors who can assist with these matters.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, including breast cancer care. It offers several benefits, including:

* **Convenience:** Virtual consultations can save patients time and travel.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can provide access to specialists for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations.
* **Continuity of Care:** Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments and medication management.

Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for their specific needs.

**Specifics for 29635 Residents**

Residents of the 29635 ZIP code are generally well-positioned to access both Greenville Memorial and St. Francis. The proximity of these hospitals allows for relatively easy access to their services. However, traffic patterns in Greenville can affect travel times, particularly during peak hours.

**Recommendations**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider the following factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** While not the sole determinant of quality, the CMS star rating provides a general overview of hospital performance.
* **Specialty Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated breast centers and a multidisciplinary approach to care.
* **Access to Specialists:** Ensure that the hospital has a strong network of specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Patient Experience:** Review patient reviews and satisfaction scores to gauge the quality of care and patient experience.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for convenient follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as counseling and support groups.
* **Financial Considerations:** Discuss insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options with the hospital's financial counselors.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences, such as the hospital's philosophy of care and the availability of spiritual support.

**Conclusion**

Greenville, SC, offers robust options for breast cancer care near the 29635 ZIP code. Both Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System provide comprehensive services and access to a range of specialists. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital. By researching the available options and consulting with their physicians, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care.