32113, Citra, Florida Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 32113, Citra, Florida is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care in the 32113 Vicinity: A Deep Dive

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can feel overwhelming. This review offers a fact-based look at the hospitals near the 32113 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics relevant to prostate cancer care. While the exact definition of "near" can vary, this analysis considers major healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that patient preferences and specific needs will always influence the best choice.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Players and General Considerations**

The 32113 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Palatka, Florida, is primarily served by Putnam Community Medical Center (PCMC). However, for specialized cancer care, patients often travel to larger facilities in nearby cities like Jacksonville and Gainesville. This review will consider PCMC, alongside major hospitals in those areas, including those affiliated with the University of Florida and Mayo Clinic.

**Putnam Community Medical Center (PCMC): A Local Option**

Putnam Community Medical Center (PCMC) is the closest hospital to the 32113 ZIP code. PCMC is a for-profit hospital owned by HCA Healthcare. PCMC has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on factors including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While PCMC may not offer the same breadth of specialized cancer services as larger facilities, it provides essential primary care and diagnostic services.

PCMC offers diagnostic imaging services, including MRI and CT scans, which are crucial for prostate cancer screening and staging. They also provide urology services, which are essential for the diagnosis and initial management of prostate cancer. However, patients with more complex cases or those seeking advanced treatments like radiation therapy or specialized surgical procedures are often referred to larger hospitals.

**Jacksonville: A Hub for Advanced Cancer Care**

Jacksonville, approximately an hour's drive from Palatka, is a major healthcare hub with several hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care.

**Mayo Clinic Jacksonville:** The Mayo Clinic is a nationally recognized institution with a reputation for excellence in cancer care. The Jacksonville campus offers a dedicated Cancer Center providing multidisciplinary care. The Mayo Clinic Jacksonville has a 4-star rating from CMS.

The Mayo Clinic's Prostate Cancer Program offers a full range of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy (including brachytherapy and proton beam therapy), and access to clinical trials. Their team includes urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, all working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans.

The Mayo Clinic’s ER wait times can vary, but the hospital generally strives to provide efficient emergency care. However, it is important to note that ER wait times are not necessarily indicative of the quality of cancer care. Telehealth services are available at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up care remotely. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Baptist Health System:** Baptist Health System in Jacksonville includes several hospitals, including Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, offering comprehensive cancer services. Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville has a 3-star rating from CMS.

Baptist Health's Oncology Program provides a range of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They have a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Baptist Health also offers support services, such as counseling and support groups, to help patients and their families cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer.

ER wait times at Baptist Health facilities can fluctuate. Baptist Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**UF Health Jacksonville:** UF Health Jacksonville is a major academic medical center affiliated with the University of Florida. UF Health Jacksonville has a 3-star rating from CMS.

UF Health's Cancer Center offers a wide array of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They are actively involved in cancer research and offer access to clinical trials. UF Health's team includes specialists in urology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and other relevant fields.

ER wait times at UF Health Jacksonville can vary. UF Health offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Gainesville: Another Option for Advanced Cancer Care**

Gainesville, approximately a two-hour drive from Palatka, is home to the University of Florida's flagship hospital, UF Health Shands Hospital.

**UF Health Shands Hospital:** UF Health Shands Hospital is a major academic medical center and the primary teaching hospital for the University of Florida. UF Health Shands Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.

UF Health Shands Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They provide advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. They are actively involved in cancer research and offer access to clinical trials.

ER wait times at UF Health Shands Hospital can fluctuate. UF Health offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Comparing Key Metrics: A Quick Glance**

Comparing hospitals requires considering various factors. CMS star ratings provide a general overview of quality, but they don't capture the nuances of specialized cancer care. ER wait times are important for emergency situations but are not directly related to the quality of cancer treatment. Telehealth availability can significantly improve access to care for patients in rural areas.

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Mayo Clinic Jacksonville (4 stars), PCMC, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, UF Health Jacksonville, UF Health Shands Hospital (3 stars).
* **Specialty Centers:** Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, UF Health Jacksonville, UF Health Shands Hospital offer dedicated cancer centers.
* **Telehealth:** All major hospitals offer telehealth services, though the extent of these services may vary.
* **ER Wait Times:** Variable; check hospital websites for current estimates.

**Beyond the Numbers: Factors to Consider**

Beyond these metrics, patients should consider factors like:

* **Physician Experience:** Research the experience and expertise of the urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences, such as the hospital's location, environment, and approach to care.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for research, highlighting key factors and comparing hospitals near the 32113 ZIP code. Patients should consult with their primary care physician, gather information from multiple sources, and ask questions to make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs and preferences. It is also important to note that hospital ratings and wait times are subject to change. Always check the most up-to-date information from the hospital websites and CMS.