26149, Middlebourne, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26149, Middlebourne, West Virginia is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26149

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a journey fraught with complex decisions. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized resources and experienced medical teams, is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 26149 (Parkersburg, West Virginia) to provide a factual overview, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care. While this information aims to be comprehensive, it should not replace consultation with your physician.

**Defining the Scope:**

The analysis focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Parkersburg, WV, considering access to specialized care. This includes facilities in West Virginia, Ohio, and potentially Pennsylvania, depending on proximity and resource availability. Data sources include the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, publicly available databases, and recent news reports.

**Hospital Performance Metrics:**

Several factors are crucial in evaluating a hospital's breast cancer care. These include:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Dedicated breast cancer centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.
* **Treatment Options:** Availability of advanced therapies, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and surgical techniques, is critical.
* **Technology:** Access to state-of-the-art imaging (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical equipment, and radiation therapy systems is essential.
* **Patient Outcomes:** While difficult to quantify definitively, factors like survival rates, complication rates, and patient satisfaction offer insights.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive care includes patient navigators, support groups, genetic counseling, and rehabilitation services.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, though not solely focused on cancer care, provide a general indicator of overall hospital quality.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** While not directly related to cancer care, long wait times can reflect broader hospital efficiency and resource allocation.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Breast Cancer Programs:**

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

Located directly within the ZIP code, Camden Clark Medical Center is a primary option for residents. The hospital is part of the WVU Medicine system, which provides access to a broader network of specialists. Camden Clark has a cancer center that provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Details regarding specific accreditation for breast cancer programs and detailed patient outcomes are not readily available in public reports. It is important to inquire directly with the hospital about its breast cancer program’s specific accreditation and outcomes. ER wait times at Camden Clark Medical Center can vary, with recent reports showing average wait times around 1-2 hours. Telehealth capabilities are available through the WVU Medicine system.

**OhioHealth Marietta Hospital (Marietta, OH):**

Located across the Ohio River, OhioHealth Marietta Hospital is another potential option. OhioHealth is a large, integrated healthcare system. The hospital offers a cancer center, and it is important to inquire about specific accreditation and outcomes for its breast cancer program. ER wait times at Marietta Hospital are typically shorter than at Camden Clark, often under an hour. Telehealth services are available through the OhioHealth system.

**Other Considerations:**

**Out-of-State Options:**

Depending on individual needs and preferences, patients may consider hospitals further afield. These options often involve longer travel times but might offer access to specialized programs or cutting-edge treatments.

**The Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH):**

The Cleveland Clinic is a nationally recognized medical center with a highly regarded cancer program. While a significant drive from Parkersburg, the Cleveland Clinic's Breast Cancer Program is renowned for its comprehensive approach, research, and advanced treatment options. The Cleveland Clinic is known for its multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. They offer a full range of diagnostic and treatment services, including clinical trials. The Cleveland Clinic consistently receives high rankings and is known for its commitment to patient care.

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

UPMC is another major medical center with a strong cancer program. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. UPMC has a large network of hospitals and clinics, providing access to care across a wide geographic area.

**Specific Program Details to Inquire About:**

When evaluating hospitals, patients should ask specific questions, including:

* **Accreditation:** Is the breast cancer program accredited by the ACS Commission on Cancer?
* **Multidisciplinary Team:** Does the hospital have a dedicated breast cancer team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists?
* **Treatment Options:** What surgical options are available (e.g., lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery)? What chemotherapy and radiation therapy options are offered? Are clinical trials available?
* **Imaging Technology:** What advanced imaging technologies are available (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI, ultrasound)?
* **Patient Support:** What support services are available (e.g., patient navigators, support groups, genetic counseling, rehabilitation)?
* **Patient Outcomes:** What are the hospital's survival rates and complication rates for breast cancer patients? (This information may be difficult to obtain directly but can be discussed with the oncologist.)
* **Telehealth:** Does the hospital offer telehealth appointments for consultations and follow-up care?

**Telehealth and Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Both WVU Medicine and OhioHealth offer telehealth services, providing remote consultations and follow-up care. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who need to travel long distances for appointments.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times can be an indicator of hospital efficiency and resource allocation. While not directly related to breast cancer care, long wait times can be a source of stress and inconvenience. Patients should inquire about average ER wait times at the hospitals they are considering.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

CMS star ratings provide a general indicator of overall hospital quality. While these ratings do not specifically focus on cancer care, they can offer insights into the hospital's performance in other areas, such as patient safety and patient experience.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 26149, focusing on key metrics and available resources. Patients should conduct thorough research, ask detailed questions, and consult with their physicians to make an informed decision that aligns with their individual needs and preferences. The availability of specialized breast cancer centers, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive support services is crucial. While local options like Camden Clark and OhioHealth Marietta offer convenience, patients should also consider the potential benefits of accessing more specialized programs at larger medical centers like the Cleveland Clinic or UPMC, even if it requires longer travel. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual circumstances and the specific needs of each patient.