23115, Millers Tavern, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23115, Millers Tavern, Virginia is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 23115 Vicinity: A Comprehensive Review

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to top-tier medical facilities. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23115 ZIP code, offering a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. Understanding these details empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Key Players**

The 23115 ZIP code encompasses the Short Pump area of Henrico County, Virginia, a suburb of Richmond. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those that are readily accessible to residents. The primary players in this healthcare landscape include major health systems with multiple campuses and specialized cancer centers.

**Assessing Hospital Quality: CMS Star Ratings and Beyond**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a publicly available measure of overall quality. While not the sole determinant of excellence, it provides a valuable benchmark.

**HCA Virginia's Presence:**

HCA Virginia Health System is a significant presence in the region. Several of its hospitals are relevant to this review.

* **Henrico Doctors' Hospital:** Located in Richmond, Henrico Doctors' Hospital is often a primary choice for residents. Its CMS star rating and specific performance metrics should be checked on the CMS website as they can fluctuate. It has a comprehensive cancer program, including breast cancer services. Patients should investigate the hospital's accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer.

* **Chippenham Hospital:** Also part of HCA Virginia, Chippenham Hospital is another major facility. Its breast cancer services should be evaluated in terms of its accreditation status and the availability of specialized surgeons, oncologists, and support staff.

**Bon Secours Richmond Health System:**

Bon Secours is another major player in the Richmond area.

* **St. Mary's Hospital:** St. Mary's Hospital is a well-regarded facility. Its CMS star rating and the specific details of its breast cancer program, including imaging capabilities (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical options, and radiation oncology services, are crucial factors for consideration.

**Other Hospitals:**

* **VCU Health System:** VCU Health System, including VCU Medical Center, is a major academic medical center. It often has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated breast cancer center. Patients should investigate its accreditation status and the expertise of its specialists.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a key factor for patients, especially during a health crisis. While wait times can vary based on the time of day and patient volume, understanding the average wait times at local hospitals is crucial.

* **Data Sources:** Information on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites, third-party websites like Healthgrades, and through local news reports. Patients should check these sources for the most up-to-date information.

* **Factors Influencing Wait Times:** Several factors influence ER wait times, including staffing levels, the severity of patient cases, and the overall patient volume.

**Specialty Centers: Focused Expertise**

Specialized cancer centers often offer a more focused approach to breast cancer care.

* **Dedicated Breast Centers:** Many hospitals have dedicated breast centers that provide comprehensive services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses.

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals and centers accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). This accreditation signifies that the center meets rigorous standards for quality and patient care.

* **Specific Services:** Evaluate the specific services offered by each center, including:

* **Imaging:** Availability of advanced imaging technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and ultrasound.
* **Surgical Options:** Range of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Genetic Counseling:** Access to genetic counseling and testing for patients with a family history of breast cancer.
* **Support Services:** Availability of support services, such as support groups, counseling, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, offering patients remote access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services.

* **Telehealth Offerings:** Investigate the telehealth offerings of each hospital, including:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Use of remote monitoring technologies to track patient symptoms and progress.
* **Support Groups:** Online support groups and educational resources.

* **Benefits of Telehealth:** Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide convenient access to specialists.

**Specific Hospital Assessments (Based on Available Information – Information is subject to change):**

**Henrico Doctors' Hospital:** Patients should research its specific breast cancer program, including the availability of specialized surgeons, oncologists, and support staff. The hospital's CMS star rating and ER wait times should be checked on the CMS website and other sources.

**Chippenham Hospital:** Similar to Henrico Doctors', patients should investigate Chippenham's breast cancer services, including its accreditation status, the availability of specialized surgeons, oncologists, and support staff.

**St. Mary's Hospital:** Patients should research its CMS star rating and the specific details of its breast cancer program, including imaging capabilities (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical options, and radiation oncology services.

**VCU Health System:** VCU Health System, including VCU Medical Center, often has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated breast cancer center. Patients should investigate its accreditation status and the expertise of its specialists.

**Factors Beyond Hospital Ratings:**

While hospital ratings and metrics are important, other factors should also be considered.

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists involved in the patient's care.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and physicians are in the patient's insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider personal preferences, such as the hospital's location, amenities, and overall atmosphere.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near the 23115 ZIP code. Patients should use this information as a starting point, conducting further research and consulting with their primary care physician to make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. Remember that information changes, so always verify the most current data directly from the hospitals and relevant healthcare organizations.