26175, Sistersville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26175, Sistersville, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26175**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-based assessment of healthcare facilities near ZIP code 26175 (Parkersburg, West Virginia) focusing on breast cancer care, considering factors like hospital quality, specialist availability, and patient experience. While this review aims to be comprehensive, it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your physician to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Region**

Parkersburg, West Virginia, and the surrounding areas primarily rely on a few key hospitals for specialized medical care. These facilities, while serving a smaller population base compared to metropolitan areas, offer a range of services, including breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Access to care is a significant factor in this region, and understanding the available resources is crucial for patients.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center**

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, located in Parkersburg, is a prominent healthcare provider in the area. While it is not a flagship hospital in the same vein as large academic medical centers, it plays a vital role in the community. The hospital offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and medical oncology services.

Camden Clark's breast cancer program includes access to mammography, ultrasound, and MRI for diagnostic purposes. Surgical options offered include lumpectomy and mastectomy, with a focus on minimally invasive techniques when appropriate. The hospital also provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services.

Regarding CMS star ratings, Camden Clark Medical Center has received mixed reviews. Patients should consult the most recent CMS data for the most up-to-date information. The hospital's emergency room wait times vary, so patients should check current wait times online or by phone before visiting.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, and Camden Clark has expanded its telehealth capabilities, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The hospital's telehealth offerings can be beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.

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

While located across the Ohio River in Marietta, Ohio, Memorial Health System is a significant healthcare provider for residents near ZIP code 26175. Memorial Health System offers a robust breast cancer program, including a dedicated breast center.

The Strecker Cancer Center at Memorial Health System is a notable component of its breast cancer care. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach, integrating oncology, surgery, and radiation therapy. The center offers advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), to aid in early detection.

Memorial Health System's breast cancer surgeons perform a range of procedures, including lumpectomies, mastectomies, and reconstructive surgery. Medical oncology services, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies, are also available. Radiation therapy is provided using advanced techniques.

Memorial Health System has a generally positive reputation for patient care, but it's essential to check the latest CMS star ratings for the most current assessment of quality. ER wait times can fluctuate, so patients should check current wait times online or by phone before visiting.

Telehealth services are available at Memorial Health System, enabling patients to access consultations and follow-up appointments remotely. This is particularly helpful for patients living in the surrounding rural areas.

**Other Considerations**

While Camden Clark Medical Center and Memorial Health System are the primary hospitals serving the area, patients may consider traveling to larger medical centers in Columbus, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for specialized care. These facilities offer a wider range of subspecialty expertise and access to clinical trials.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

The availability of specialized breast cancer centers is a key factor in evaluating hospital quality. While Camden Clark and Memorial Health System offer comprehensive services, the presence of dedicated breast centers with multidisciplinary teams can significantly improve patient outcomes.

A multidisciplinary team typically includes breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer care. These teams collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Technology**

Access to advanced diagnostic imaging technologies is crucial for early detection and accurate staging of breast cancer. Both Camden Clark and Memorial Health System offer mammography services, but the availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) can improve the detection of small cancers. MRI and ultrasound are also important diagnostic tools.

**Surgical Options and Techniques**

The surgical options available at a hospital are a critical consideration. Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) and mastectomy are the primary surgical procedures for breast cancer. The availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as sentinel lymph node biopsy, can reduce the invasiveness of surgery and improve recovery times.

**Medical Oncology and Treatment**

Medical oncology services include chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. The availability of these treatments, as well as access to clinical trials, is important for patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

**Radiation Therapy**

Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), can improve treatment accuracy and reduce side effects.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare. Hospitals should provide a supportive environment for patients and their families. This includes access to patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring of patients' health.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. Research activities and participation in clinical trials are indicators of a hospital's commitment to improving breast cancer care.

**ER Wait Times and Hospital Efficiency**

ER wait times can be a significant factor in patient satisfaction. Patients should check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the emergency room. Hospital efficiency, as measured by factors such as length of stay and readmission rates, is also an important consideration.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Metrics**

CMS star ratings provide a standardized measure of hospital quality. Patients should consult the most recent CMS data for the most up-to-date information on hospital performance. Other quality metrics, such as infection rates and patient safety indicators, are also important to consider.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a significant decision. While this review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 26175, it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Patients should consult with their physician to determine the best course of action for their individual needs, considering factors such as the stage of their cancer, their overall health, and their personal preferences. Both Camden Clark Medical Center and Memorial Health System offer comprehensive breast cancer programs, but patients may also consider traveling to larger medical centers for specialized care. Always verify the most current data from CMS and other reputable sources to make an informed decision.