26833, Maysville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26833, Maysville, West Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the 26833 Vicinity: A Scorecard

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be overwhelming. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 26833, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability to help patients make informed decisions. The information presented is based on publicly available data and should be considered alongside personal preferences and physician recommendations.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 26833 primarily covers the town of Moorefield, West Virginia, and surrounding areas. The closest major medical centers are located in nearby cities, potentially impacting travel time and access to specialized care. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering the practicalities of accessing potentially life-saving treatment.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other factors. These ratings offer a quick snapshot of a hospital's overall performance.

**Potomac Valley Hospital (Keyser, WV):** Located approximately 25 miles from Moorefield, Potomac Valley Hospital is a critical access hospital. Critical access hospitals often have limited services compared to larger facilities, but they play a vital role in providing essential care to rural communities. CMS does not assign star ratings to critical access hospitals. Patients seeking advanced breast cancer treatment may need to consider referrals to larger facilities.

**WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center (Martinsburg, WV):** Situated roughly 70 miles from Moorefield, Berkeley Medical Center is a part of the WVU Medicine network. As of the latest available data, Berkeley Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics. While not the highest rating, it indicates a level of care that meets national standards. Patients should investigate specific services, such as breast cancer screening and treatment options, to determine if this facility aligns with their needs.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center (Parkersburg, WV):** Located approximately 150 miles from Moorefield, Camden Clark Medical Center is another facility within the WVU Medicine system. CMS has assigned a 3-star rating to Camden Clark Medical Center. The longer distance may necessitate careful consideration of travel time and the availability of support services closer to home.

**Other Considerations: ER Wait Times and Access**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially in situations where rapid assessment and intervention are necessary. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, publicly available data can offer insights into average wait times at various hospitals.

**Potomac Valley Hospital:** As a critical access hospital, Potomac Valley Hospital likely experiences shorter ER wait times compared to larger facilities. However, this should be balanced against the potential limitations in specialized services.

**WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center:** Data on ER wait times at Berkeley Medical Center should be readily available through online resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website or through the hospital's website. Patients should review this information to assess potential wait times.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center:** Similar to Berkeley Medical Center, patients can find ER wait time data for Camden Clark Medical Center through online resources.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Care**

The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers or specialized programs is a significant indicator of a hospital's commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care.

**WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center:** Patients should investigate whether Berkeley Medical Center has a dedicated breast cancer center or a specialized program. This center should provide a range of services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center:** Similar to Berkeley Medical Center, patients should check whether Camden Clark Medical Center has a specialized breast cancer program.

**Telehealth and Remote Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups without the need for extensive travel.

**Potomac Valley Hospital:** As a critical access hospital, Potomac Valley Hospital may offer limited telehealth services. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth for breast cancer-related appointments.

**WVU Medicine Berkeley Medical Center:** Patients should check the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients at Berkeley Medical Center. This could include virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center:** Patients should inquire about the telehealth options available at Camden Clark Medical Center for breast cancer patients.

**Specific Breast Cancer Services to Inquire About**

When evaluating hospitals, patients should specifically inquire about the following services:

* **Screening Mammography:** Availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and other advanced screening techniques.
* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Access to MRI, ultrasound, and other imaging modalities for diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Options:** Availability of lumpectomy, mastectomy (including nipple-sparing mastectomy), and reconstructive surgery options.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to medical oncologists specializing in breast cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of radiation therapy, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials to access cutting-edge treatments.
* **Genetic Counseling and Testing:** Availability of genetic counseling and testing for BRCA1/2 and other gene mutations.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources to help patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of breast cancer.
* **Patient Navigation:** Availability of patient navigators to help patients navigate the healthcare system and coordinate their care.

**Factors Beyond the Numbers**

While data points like CMS star ratings and ER wait times are important, other factors should also be considered. These include:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the breast cancer specialists at each hospital.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to gain insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Hospital Culture:** Consider the hospital's overall culture and its commitment to patient-centered care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 26833. Patients should use this information to conduct further research, ask questions, and ultimately choose the hospital and care team that best meets their individual needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers for personalized recommendations. The landscape of healthcare is constantly evolving, so it is important to verify all information with the respective hospitals and healthcare providers.