20839, Beallsville, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20839, Beallsville, Maryland is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 20839**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to top-tier medical care is paramount. This review examines the hospitals near ZIP code 20839, focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to provide a factual, data-driven assessment to aid informed decision-making.

**Defining the Scope**

ZIP code 20839 encompasses areas like Frederick, Maryland, and its surrounding communities. This review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, prioritizing those with established reputations for cancer care. Proximity is balanced with the availability of specialized services.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality metrics. These ratings offer a snapshot of overall performance. However, it's crucial to understand that these ratings are not the sole determinant of a hospital's suitability for lung cancer treatment.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Located directly within ZIP code 20839, Frederick Health Hospital is a primary care facility that has a CMS star rating of 3 stars as of October 2024. While not a major cancer center, it provides essential services and may be a starting point for diagnosis and initial treatment. Patients often receive referrals to more specialized facilities for advanced care.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital:** A major regional referral center, Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia, is a significant option. While not directly within 20839, it's within a reasonable driving distance. Inova Fairfax has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. It houses the Inova Schar Cancer Institute, a comprehensive cancer center offering a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The Schar Cancer Institute is known for its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, is a world-renowned institution. While a further drive from 20839, its reputation for excellence in cancer care is undeniable. Johns Hopkins has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, signifying its commitment to research, prevention, and treatment. The Kimmel Cancer Center offers cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials for lung cancer patients.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. Shorter wait times can indicate a more efficient system. However, it's important to note that wait times can fluctuate.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** ER wait times at Frederick Health Hospital can vary. Data from sources like ProPublica suggest average wait times, but these are subject to change. Contacting the hospital directly for the most current information is recommended.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital:** Inova Fairfax Hospital's ER typically experiences higher patient volumes. Wait times can be longer than at smaller hospitals. Real-time wait time information is often available on the Inova website or through third-party apps.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins Hospital's ER also sees a high volume of patients. Wait times can be significant, especially during peak hours. Patients with severe symptoms are prioritized. Checking online resources or calling the hospital for current estimates is advisable.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Programs**

Specialized centers and dedicated lung cancer programs are vital for optimal care. These centers often have advanced diagnostic capabilities, experienced specialists, and access to the latest treatment options.

**Inova Schar Cancer Institute:** The Inova Schar Cancer Institute offers a dedicated lung cancer program. This program provides comprehensive services, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative treatments.

**Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center:** The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins has a robust lung cancer program. It features a multidisciplinary team, advanced diagnostic tools, and a wide range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The center is actively involved in lung cancer research and clinical trials.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: The Foundation of Treatment**

Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should have access to advanced imaging technologies, including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital provides diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans and potentially PET scans. Patients may be referred to specialists for more advanced procedures.

**Inova Schar Cancer Institute:** Inova Fairfax Hospital has state-of-the-art imaging capabilities, including advanced CT scanners, PET/CT scanners, and bronchoscopy suites. These tools allow for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

**Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center:** Johns Hopkins Hospital possesses cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, including advanced imaging modalities, molecular testing, and minimally invasive biopsy techniques. These tools are crucial for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

**Treatment Options: A Comprehensive Approach**

Effective lung cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies. Hospitals should offer a full range of options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Inova Schar Cancer Institute:** The Inova Schar Cancer Institute provides a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgical options like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), advanced radiation therapy techniques, chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center:** The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins offers a comprehensive range of treatment options, including surgical resection, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They also offer access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. It allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services remotely.

**Inova Schar Cancer Institute:** Inova offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. This can be particularly helpful for follow-up appointments and managing side effects.

**Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center:** Johns Hopkins Hospital also provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital.

**Patient Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Cancer treatment extends beyond medical interventions. Patient support services, such as counseling, support groups, and palliative care, are essential for overall well-being.

**Inova Schar Cancer Institute:** The Inova Schar Cancer Institute offers a range of support services, including patient navigators, social workers, and support groups. These services help patients navigate the complexities of cancer treatment.

**Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center:** The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins provides comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, social workers, psychologists, and support groups. They also offer palliative care services to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovation**

Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. Hospitals with robust research programs are often at the forefront of innovation.

**Inova Schar Cancer Institute:** The Inova Schar Cancer Institute participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to promising new therapies.

**Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center:** The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is actively involved in lung cancer research and clinical trials. This allows patients to access the latest treatment options and contribute to advancements in cancer care.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of hospitals near ZIP code 20839, focusing on key factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists are essential steps in this process. By carefully evaluating the available options, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care. Remember that the best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and offers the most comprehensive and compassionate care.