29682, Six Mile, South Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 29682, Six Mile, South Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Simpsonville, SC (ZIP Code 29682)

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision, one fraught with complex medical information and emotional considerations. For residents near Simpsonville, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29682), several hospitals offer varying levels of expertise and resources. This review aims to provide a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help you navigate this critical healthcare landscape.

**Greenville Health System (Prisma Health)**

Prisma Health, the dominant healthcare provider in the Greenville area, represents a significant starting point for breast cancer care. The flagship hospital, **Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital**, located at 701 Grove Road, Greenville, SC 29605, holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's crucial to delve deeper into specific departments and services.

Greenville Memorial Hospital houses a dedicated **Cancer Institute**, offering a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. This typically includes medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff like nurses, social workers, and navigators. The hospital’s breast cancer program is likely to be accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC), a key indicator of quality and adherence to national standards.

Regarding emergency room access, the ER wait times at Greenville Memorial can fluctuate. Publicly available data, often accessible through websites like ProPublica or Hospital Compare, provides insights into average wait times for both physician assessment and discharge. These times can vary depending on the day of the week and time of day, so checking real-time data, if available, is recommended.

**Telehealth at Prisma Health** is increasingly prevalent. The health system offers telehealth consultations for various specialties, including oncology. This can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and accessing support services from the comfort of your home. Check the Prisma Health website for specific telehealth options related to breast cancer care, including availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and support staff.

**Other Prisma Health Facilities**

Prisma Health operates other facilities in the region that may offer breast cancer services. **Prisma Health Patewood Hospital**, located at 1200 Patewood Blvd, Greenville, SC 29615, is another option. While Patewood may not be a primary cancer center, it could offer diagnostic imaging or outpatient services. Always verify the specific services available at each location.

**St. Francis Downtown (Bon Secours Mercy Health)**

**St. Francis Downtown**, located at 1 St Francis Dr, Greenville, SC 29601, is another major player in the Greenville healthcare market. This hospital boasts a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher overall quality compared to Greenville Memorial. This higher rating often reflects stronger performance in areas like patient safety and readmission rates.

St. Francis Downtown also has a dedicated cancer center, likely accredited by the CoC. The hospital's breast cancer program offers a comprehensive range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. The hospital's website and patient resources will provide details on the specific physicians and treatment options available.

ER wait times at St. Francis Downtown can be checked through publicly available data sources. While wait times can vary, the hospital’s performance in this area can be a factor in your decision.

Telehealth services at St. Francis Downtown are also worth investigating. The hospital likely offers telehealth options for oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to support services. Check their website for specific details on telehealth availability and how to access these services.

**Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System (SRHS)**

While not directly in the 29682 ZIP code, **Spartanburg Medical Center**, located at 101 E Wood St, Spartanburg, SC 29303, is a significant regional healthcare provider. It is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Simpsonville. SRHS is a large health system, and Spartanburg Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center, likely offering a comprehensive breast cancer program. The hospital’s CMS star rating and CoC accreditation status should be investigated.

Spartanburg Medical Center offers a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. The hospital's website and patient resources will provide details on the specific physicians and treatment options available.

ER wait times at Spartanburg Medical Center can be assessed through public data sources. The hospital’s performance in this area can be a factor in your decision.

Telehealth services at Spartanburg Medical Center should be explored. The hospital likely offers telehealth options for oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to support services. Check their website for specific details on telehealth availability and how to access these services.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, consider these additional factors:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists at each hospital. Look for board certification and specialization in breast cancer.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Inquire about the availability of advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and other cutting-edge technologies used in diagnosis and treatment.
* **Clinical Trials:** Explore whether the hospitals participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation services.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care and the patient experience at each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable feedback.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.

**Specifics to Investigate:**

* **Prisma Health Greenville Memorial:** Specifically, investigate the wait times in the ER and the availability of telehealth appointments with breast cancer specialists.
* **St. Francis Downtown:** Determine the specific types of breast cancer surgeries offered and the availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques.
* **Spartanburg Medical Center:** Confirm the hospital's CMS star rating and investigate the availability of clinical trials for breast cancer patients.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the complexities of breast cancer care requires thorough research and careful consideration. For residents near Simpsonville, SC (ZIP Code 29682), Prisma Health, St. Francis Downtown, and Spartanburg Medical Center represent the primary options. By assessing their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, and by researching physician expertise, technology, and support services, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to specialists to ensure you receive the best possible care.