26147, Grantsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Near Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26147)

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision, one that demands careful consideration of factors ranging from specialized expertise to patient experience. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Parkersburg, West Virginia (ZIP code 26147), evaluating their resources and performance in breast cancer care. While no single "score" can encapsulate the entirety of a hospital's capabilities, this analysis aims to provide a fact-based overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape around Parkersburg, WV, is primarily shaped by regional healthcare systems. Access to comprehensive breast cancer services can vary, and patients may need to consider travel to access specialized care. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Columbus, OH, and Pittsburgh, PA, offers additional options, though travel time and logistical considerations become significant.

**Local and Regional Hospital Profiles:**

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

Camden Clark Medical Center is a key healthcare provider for the Parkersburg area. While specific details about its breast cancer program are not consistently available through public sources, it is important to investigate the hospital's offerings directly. This includes asking about the availability of a dedicated breast cancer center, the types of surgical procedures offered (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive options), and the availability of medical oncology and radiation oncology services on-site. Patients should also inquire about the hospital's accreditation status from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer, which signifies a commitment to quality cancer care.

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

Located across the Ohio River, Memorial Health System offers another potential option for residents of the Parkersburg area. Patients should investigate the system's breast cancer program, including the availability of screening mammography, diagnostic imaging (ultrasound, MRI), surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Inquire about the presence of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast cancer nurse navigators.

**OhioHealth (Columbus, OH):**

OhioHealth, with its flagship hospitals in Columbus, represents a significant option for advanced breast cancer care. The OhioHealth system includes several hospitals and specialty centers.

**OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital (Columbus, OH):**

Riverside Methodist Hospital is a large, tertiary care facility with a strong reputation. It is a teaching hospital and often has access to the latest clinical trials and research. Riverside Methodist Hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. It is important to note that CMS star ratings are based on a range of factors, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency.

* **Breast Cancer Services:** Patients should investigate the hospital's breast cancer center, including its accreditation status (e.g., NAPBC accreditation), the availability of a multidisciplinary team, and the range of surgical options.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average ER wait time at Riverside Methodist Hospital is approximately 20-30 minutes, but this can vary.
* **Telehealth:** OhioHealth offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with oncologists and other specialists. The availability of telehealth for breast cancer patients should be confirmed.

**OhioHealth Grant Medical Center (Columbus, OH):**

Grant Medical Center is another major hospital within the OhioHealth system. It also has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

* **Breast Cancer Services:** Similar to Riverside Methodist Hospital, patients should inquire about the hospital's breast cancer center, accreditation, and the range of services offered.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Grant Medical Center are generally comparable to Riverside Methodist Hospital.
* **Telehealth:** OhioHealth's telehealth services are likely available at Grant Medical Center as well.

**University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) (Pittsburgh, PA):**

UPMC is a large healthcare system with multiple hospitals in the Pittsburgh area. This is a significant option for advanced cancer care.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA):**

Magee-Womens Hospital is a specialized women's hospital within the UPMC system.

* **Breast Cancer Services:** Magee-Womens Hospital is a leading center for breast cancer care. It is a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full range of services, including advanced surgical techniques, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. Patients should investigate the hospital's accreditation status (e.g., NCI designation), the expertise of its surgeons and oncologists, and the availability of support services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital can vary.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists.

**Factors to Consider in Your Decision:**

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). These accreditations indicate a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurse navigators, is crucial for coordinated care.
* **Surgical Options:** Inquire about the range of surgical procedures offered, including lumpectomy, mastectomy (with and without reconstruction), and sentinel node biopsy.
* **Oncology Services:** Ensure the hospital offers chemotherapy and radiation therapy services, either on-site or through a close partnership.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials. Consider factors like the hospital's communication, the availability of support services (e.g., counseling, support groups), and the overall patient experience.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times are an important consideration, especially during a crisis. While wait times can fluctuate, it's advisable to inquire about average wait times at each hospital.

**Telehealth Statistics:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients. This can include virtual consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and support services.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near Parkersburg, WV (ZIP code 26147). Patients should conduct thorough research, including contacting hospitals directly, reviewing patient testimonials, and consulting with their primary care physicians and oncologists. The best choice will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific type and stage of breast cancer. Remember to prioritize a hospital with a strong breast cancer program, a multidisciplinary approach, and a commitment to patient-centered care.