23109, Mathews, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23109, Mathews, Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Richmond Area: A Scorecard for 23109

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 23109 (Glen Allen, Virginia), assessing their capabilities based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. While this is not a definitive ranking, it provides a snapshot to help patients make informed choices.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Richmond metropolitan area offers a range of healthcare options, from large academic medical centers to community hospitals. Each institution brings a unique blend of resources, expertise, and patient experience. The following analysis explores some of the prominent players in the breast cancer care arena, focusing on key metrics relevant to patients.

**Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital (Richmond, VA)**

Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital is a major player in the Richmond healthcare landscape. It's located within a reasonable driving distance from 23109. This hospital boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating above-average performance in several key areas. CMS star ratings are based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

St. Mary's has a dedicated breast center, often a crucial factor for patients. These centers typically offer comprehensive services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical consultations, and support services. The hospital’s website provides information on its breast cancer specialists, outlining their experience and areas of expertise.

ER wait times are a consideration, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms or complications. Publicly available data indicates that St. Mary's ER wait times fluctuate, so patients should check real-time updates through online tools or by calling the hospital directly.

**VCU Health System (Richmond, VA)**

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Health System, including VCU Medical Center, represents a significant presence in the region. VCU Medical Center is a Level I trauma center and a major academic medical center, offering a wide range of specialties and advanced treatment options. It is located a bit further from 23109 than St. Mary's, but still within a reasonable driving distance.

VCU Medical Center is a teaching hospital, which means it is involved in research and often offers access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. The hospital's Massey Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a prestigious designation that reflects its commitment to research, comprehensive care, and community outreach.

The Massey Cancer Center provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care, bringing together specialists from surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and other disciplines. They also offer specialized programs, such as genetic counseling and survivorship programs.

ER wait times at VCU Medical Center can vary, given its role as a trauma center. Patients should consult online resources or contact the hospital for current wait times. CMS data shows a three-star rating for VCU Medical Center.

**HCA Virginia Health System (Multiple Locations)**

HCA Virginia Health System operates several hospitals in the Richmond area, including Henrico Doctors' Hospital, Parham Doctors' Hospital, and Johnston-Willis Hospital, all within a reasonable distance from 23109. Each hospital offers a different set of services and specialties.

Henrico Doctors' Hospital has a four-star CMS rating. The hospital has a dedicated breast center. Patients can expect access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Parham Doctors' Hospital also has a breast center and offers comprehensive cancer care. Publicly available data indicates varying ER wait times across HCA facilities, and patients should check real-time updates.

Johnston-Willis Hospital, another HCA facility, also has a breast center and provides cancer care services. The hospital's CMS rating is four stars.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services. Both Bon Secours and VCU Health System, as well as HCA facilities, have expanded their telehealth offerings. Patients can often access virtual appointments with their oncologists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers. The availability of telehealth can be especially beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

Telehealth services can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups. Patients should inquire with their specific providers about the availability of telehealth options and the platforms used.

**Specialized Centers and Programs**

Beyond the standard services, many hospitals offer specialized programs and centers. These can include:

* **Genetic Counseling:** For patients with a family history of breast cancer, genetic counseling can help assess their risk and guide decisions about screening and prevention.
* **Survivorship Programs:** These programs provide support and resources for patients after their treatment is complete, focusing on long-term health and well-being.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments and contribute to medical research.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services can help patients recover from surgery and other treatments.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the hospital, the time of day, and the volume of patients. Patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to breast cancer should be aware of the potential wait times at different hospitals. Online tools and hospital websites often provide real-time updates on ER wait times.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and experiences are valuable sources of information. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital’s own websites often feature patient reviews. These reviews can provide insights into the quality of care, the communication skills of the medical staff, and the overall patient experience. However, it is important to consider that individual experiences can vary.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Insurance coverage and financial considerations are crucial. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospital and the healthcare providers. The hospital's financial services department can provide information about billing, payment plans, and financial assistance programs.

**Making the 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:

* **Proximity:** How close is the hospital to their home?
* **Specialized Services:** Does the hospital offer the specific services they need, such as genetic counseling or clinical trials?
* **Physician Expertise:** What is the experience and expertise of the breast cancer specialists?
* **Patient Reviews:** What are other patients saying about their experiences?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Is the hospital in their insurance network?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Are telehealth options available for follow-up appointments and consultations?

**Conclusion**

The Richmond area, including hospitals near 23109, offers a range of options for breast cancer care. Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital, VCU Health System (including VCU Medical Center), and HCA Virginia Health System facilities each bring unique strengths to the table. Patients should research these hospitals, consider their individual needs, and consult with their primary care physicians to make an informed decision about their care. This review provides a starting point for that process, highlighting key factors to consider when choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment.