26202, Fenwick, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26202, Fenwick, West Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26202

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision, demanding careful consideration of factors ranging from diagnostic capabilities to treatment options and patient experience. This review assesses hospitals in proximity to ZIP code 26202 (Elkins, West Virginia), providing a fact-rich overview to help patients make informed choices. The analysis incorporates data on hospital performance, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, offering a comprehensive snapshot of available resources.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in and around Elkins, West Virginia, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Rural communities often face limitations in access to specialized care, necessitating a focus on hospitals with strong regional reputations and affiliations. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer services, from screening and diagnosis to surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, is a primary focus of this review.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance:**

The closest hospitals to ZIP code 26202 that offer breast cancer care are examined based on publicly available data and reports. It is important to note that data can change, and patients should always confirm information directly with the hospital.

**Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV):**

Davis Medical Center is a primary care provider in the Elkins area. As a smaller, community-based hospital, Davis Medical Center may not have the same breadth of specialized services as larger regional facilities. It is essential to confirm the availability of breast cancer services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and access to surgical and medical oncology consultations. Patients should inquire about the hospital's affiliation with larger cancer centers for potential referrals and access to advanced treatments. Publicly available data, such as the Hospital Compare website, should be consulted for information on quality metrics and patient satisfaction. As of the latest available data, Davis Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating.

**Mon Health Medical Center (Morgantown, WV):**

Located approximately 100 miles from Elkins, Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown is a larger facility that may offer a more comprehensive range of breast cancer services. Mon Health Medical Center is part of the Mon Health System. The hospital may have a dedicated breast center with specialized staff, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast health navigators. Patients should inquire about the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and access to clinical trials. The CMS website does not have a star rating for Mon Health Medical Center.

**WVU Medicine - J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV):**

J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, affiliated with West Virginia University Medicine, is a flagship hospital for the region. It is a Level I trauma center and a comprehensive cancer center, potentially offering a full spectrum of breast cancer services. Ruby Memorial Hospital may have a dedicated breast cancer program with multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, breast surgeons, and reconstructive surgeons. Patients can expect access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including clinical trials. As of the latest available data, J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. Patients should review the specific metrics contributing to the rating to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses. ER wait times can vary, but as a major regional hospital, patients should be prepared for potential delays. Telehealth services may be available for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

**Considerations for Evaluation:**

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance across various quality measures. These ratings provide a general overview of a hospital's quality, but they should not be the sole determinant of a decision.

**ER Wait Times:** Long ER wait times can be a significant concern, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or needing urgent care. Patients should inquire about average wait times and the hospital's processes for managing patient flow.

**Specialty Centers:** Hospitals with dedicated breast centers often provide a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to care. These centers typically offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced technologies, and specialized support services.

**Telehealth Services:** Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at a hospital. Patients should research the hospital's reputation and read reviews from other patients.

**Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer access to the latest treatment options and can be an important consideration for some patients. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at the hospital.

**Specific Services to Inquire About:**

When evaluating hospitals, patients should inquire about the availability of specific services, including:

* **Screening Mammography:** The hospital's ability to perform screening mammograms, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis).
* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Access to diagnostic imaging, such as diagnostic mammograms, ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Breast Biopsy:** The hospital's ability to perform breast biopsies, including stereotactic, ultrasound-guided, and MRI-guided biopsies.
* **Surgical Options:** Availability of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Access to radiation therapy services, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to medical oncology services, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Support Services:** Availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences, as well as the factors discussed in this review. It is essential to gather information from multiple sources, including healthcare providers, hospital websites, and patient reviews. Patients should also feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their concerns to their healthcare team.

**Conclusion:**

The availability of comprehensive breast cancer care near ZIP code 26202 varies. While Davis Medical Center provides local services, Mon Health Medical Center and J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown offer more comprehensive options. Patients should thoroughly investigate each hospital's offerings, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. By conducting thorough research and consulting with healthcare professionals, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for their needs.