26203, Erbacon, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26203, Erbacon, West Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26203**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Choosing the right hospital, with access to cutting-edge treatments, experienced specialists, and compassionate care, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 26203, providing a fact-based assessment to aid in informed decision-making. Due to the rural nature of this ZIP code, the analysis will extend beyond immediate proximity, considering hospitals within a practical driving distance.

**Understanding the Score: Key Metrics**

This evaluation employs a multi-faceted approach, considering several key metrics. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system (1-5 stars) based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. This is a valuable, publicly available indicator of overall hospital performance.
* **National Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of cancer care.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence and reputation of dedicated breast cancer centers, offering multidisciplinary care, are assessed.
* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and qualifications of breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists are considered.
* **Treatment Options:** Availability of advanced treatments like minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, clinical trials, and radiation therapy techniques are evaluated.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Access to advanced imaging (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical equipment, and radiation therapy technology is assessed.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores, as reported by CMS and other sources, provide insights into the quality of patient care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The availability of telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups is considered, particularly important for patients in rural areas.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** While not directly related to breast cancer care, ER wait times can be an indicator of overall hospital efficiency and access to care.

**Hospital Profiles: A Comparative Analysis**

**1. Monongalia Health System (Morgantown, WV)**

Located approximately 75 miles from 26203, Monongalia Health System (MHS) is a flagship hospital for the region. It's a large, tertiary care center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **Accreditation:** Accredited by the ACoS CoC, indicating a commitment to comprehensive cancer care.
* **Specialty Center:** MHS has a dedicated Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment.
* **Physician Expertise:** The Cancer Center boasts a team of experienced breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists.
* **Treatment Options:** MHS offers a wide range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. They are equipped with advanced technology.
* **Technology and Equipment:** The Cancer Center utilizes advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography and MRI. They also have advanced radiation therapy equipment.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores are generally average.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** MHS offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be beneficial for patients in rural areas.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are generally moderate, but can fluctuate.

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

Approximately 80 miles from 26203, Camden Clark Medical Center is another option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **Accreditation:** Accredited by the ACoS CoC.
* **Specialty Center:** Camden Clark has a cancer center.
* **Physician Expertise:** They have a team of oncologists and surgeons.
* **Treatment Options:** Offers surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Offers mammography and other imaging services.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores are average.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Offers some telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are variable.

**3. United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV)**

Located approximately 50 miles from 26203, United Hospital Center (UHC) is a regional hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **Accreditation:** Accredited by the ACoS CoC.
* **Specialty Center:** UHC has a cancer center.
* **Physician Expertise:** They have a team of oncologists and surgeons.
* **Treatment Options:** Offers surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Offers mammography and other imaging services.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores are average.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Offers some telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are variable.

**4. Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV)**

Located within a closer proximity to 26203, Davis Medical Center (DMC) is a smaller community hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **Accreditation:** Accredited by the ACoS CoC.
* **Specialty Center:** DMC has a cancer center.
* **Physician Expertise:** They have a team of oncologists and surgeons.
* **Treatment Options:** Offers surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Offers mammography and other imaging services.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores are average.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Offers some telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are variable.

**5. St. Joseph's Hospital (Buckhannon, WV)**

Located approximately 30 miles from 26203, St. Joseph's Hospital is a smaller community hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Not available.
* **Accreditation:** Not available.
* **Specialty Center:** Not available.
* **Physician Expertise:** Limited information available.
* **Treatment Options:** Limited information available.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Limited information available.
* **Patient Experience:** Limited information available.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Limited information available.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are variable.

**Analysis and Recommendations**

Based on the available data, Monongalia Health System (Morgantown) emerges as the strongest contender for breast cancer care near 26203. Its higher CMS star rating, accreditation by the ACoS CoC, dedicated cancer center, and comprehensive treatment options, make it a top choice. While the distance may be a factor, the potential for access to advanced care and a multidisciplinary team often outweighs the inconvenience.

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center (Parkersburg), United Hospital Center (Clarksburg), and Davis Medical Center (Elkins) are viable options, particularly for patients who prefer a closer location. Each of these hospitals has accreditation and a cancer center. However, the level of resources and expertise may be less than at MHS.

St. Joseph's Hospital (Buckhannon) is the closest option, but lacks publicly available data. Patients should inquire directly about services and physician expertise.

**Important Considerations for Patients**

* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like the hospital's culture, patient reviews, and the specific preferences of the patient.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage and network participation for each hospital and specialist.
* **Consultations:** Schedule consultations with multiple specialists to discuss treatment options and build a rapport.
* **Transportation:** Arrange for transportation to and from appointments, especially if the hospital is located a significant distance away.
* **Support Systems:** Lean on family, friends, and support groups for emotional and practical support.

**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 physicians and other healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care. Hospital data and ratings can change, so it is essential to verify information directly with the hospitals.