26134, Belmont, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26134, Belmont, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Mid-Ohio Valley: A Review of Hospital Options Near ZIP Code 26134**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for care is a critical decision. This review examines the breast cancer resources available at hospitals near ZIP code 26134, focusing on quality indicators like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to help patients make informed choices about their care.

**Focusing on the Region**

ZIP code 26134, encompassing the area around Harrisville, West Virginia, is situated in the Mid-Ohio Valley. This region presents a unique healthcare landscape, with a mix of community hospitals and larger facilities within a reasonable driving distance. Access to specialized breast cancer care can vary, making careful consideration of available resources essential.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center (Parkersburg, WV)**

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, approximately 30 miles from Harrisville, is a significant regional healthcare provider. It's a flagship hospital within the WVU Medicine system, which provides a broader network of specialists. Camden Clark has a CMS star rating, which can fluctuate. Patients should check the most current ratings on the CMS website.

Camden Clark's cancer services include a dedicated cancer center. This center likely offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The hospital provides comprehensive breast cancer screening services, including mammography and potentially advanced imaging techniques like breast MRI. They also provide diagnostic services, including biopsies.

ER wait times at Camden Clark are a crucial consideration. Prospective patients can find this data on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare tool. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department.

Camden Clark’s telehealth capabilities are an increasingly important factor. Telehealth can provide convenient access to follow-up appointments, consultations, and support groups. The availability and scope of telehealth services should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Memorial Health System (Marietta, OH)**

Memorial Health System in Marietta, Ohio, is another key option, located approximately 45 miles from Harrisville. Memorial Hospital, the main campus, is a significant healthcare provider in the area. Memorial Health System is a separate system, and its CMS star rating should be checked independently.

Memorial Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center. The center likely features a multidisciplinary team, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists specializing in breast cancer. Screening services, diagnostic procedures (mammography, ultrasound, and biopsies), and treatment options are available.

ER wait times at Memorial Hospital are another important factor. This information can be found on the hospital’s website or through public reporting sources.

Memorial Health System has invested in telehealth, which can offer patients convenient access to specialists and follow-up care. The extent of these telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Community Hospitals**

Smaller community hospitals closer to Harrisville may offer basic screening services and initial consultations. However, they may not have the full range of specialists and advanced treatment options available at larger facilities. Patients should inquire about referral processes to ensure seamless access to specialized care if needed.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors beyond CMS star ratings and ER wait times should influence a patient's decision.

**Specialized Centers:** The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, as opposed to a general cancer center, can be a significant advantage. Such centers often offer a more focused and coordinated approach to care.

**Multidisciplinary Teams:** The availability of a multidisciplinary team is crucial. This team should include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and oncology nurses. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive and coordinated care.

**Technology and Treatment Options:** Assess the hospital's access to advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography, breast MRI) and the availability of cutting-edge treatment options, such as targeted therapies and clinical trials.

**Patient Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive patient support services, including nurse navigators, support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs.

**Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates a commitment to high-quality cancer care.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:** The availability of telehealth services is increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring of symptoms.

**Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the hospital's patient experience. Consider factors like communication, compassion, and overall satisfaction.

**Financial Considerations:** Inquire about insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses. Discuss financial assistance programs with the hospital's financial counselors.

**Specific Breast Cancer Services to Inquire About**

When contacting hospitals, patients should specifically inquire about the following:

* **Screening Services:** Availability of mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, and breast MRI.
* **Diagnostic Services:** Biopsy procedures (e.g., core needle biopsy, stereotactic biopsy, surgical biopsy).
* **Surgical Options:** Surgical options available, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Availability of medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer and access to systemic therapies (e.g., chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy).
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of radiation oncologists and access to radiation therapy options (e.g., external beam radiation, brachytherapy).
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials, which can offer access to innovative treatments.
* **Support Services:** Availability of nurse navigators, support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs.
* **Telehealth Services:** Availability of telehealth for appointments, consultations, and support.

**The Importance of Research and Consultation**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should conduct thorough research, gather information from multiple sources, and consult with their primary care physicians and other healthcare providers. Visiting the hospitals' websites, contacting their patient services departments, and, if possible, speaking with other patients can provide valuable insights.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care. Hospital services and availability can change, so it is essential to verify information directly with the hospitals.