21131, Phoenix, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21131, Phoenix, Maryland is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 21131: A Comprehensive Review

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to high-quality care, including specialized expertise, advanced technology, and supportive services, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 21131 (Reisterstown, Maryland) to provide a factual overview of their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. Note that this is a snapshot in time, and hospital data can change. Always confirm information directly with the hospitals.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The geographic area surrounding 21131 offers several hospital options, each with varying strengths in lung cancer treatment. Proximity is a significant factor, influencing ease of access for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The primary hospitals considered here are those within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in traffic patterns common to the Baltimore metropolitan area.

**The Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD): A Flagship Institution**

The Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in Baltimore, is a globally recognized medical center and a major player in lung cancer care. While not directly in Reisterstown, it's a prominent option for residents in the 21131 area. Johns Hopkins consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation for cancer care, including lung cancer.

Johns Hopkins has a dedicated lung cancer program, offering a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from the coordinated expertise of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. They are at the forefront of research and clinical trials, giving patients access to cutting-edge treatments, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies.

The hospital’s Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, a prestigious designation reflecting its commitment to research, prevention, and treatment. Johns Hopkins utilizes advanced diagnostic tools, including PET/CT scans and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

**CMS Star Rating:** Johns Hopkins Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects various factors, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can vary significantly depending on the time of day and day of the week. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the emergency room.

**Telehealth:** Johns Hopkins actively utilizes telehealth for certain appointments and follow-up care, offering patients greater convenience and access to specialists. Specific telehealth availability for lung cancer patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD): A Comprehensive Cancer Center**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), also in Baltimore, is another major hospital option for residents near 21131. UMMC's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center is an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center, similar to Johns Hopkins.

UMMC provides a comprehensive lung cancer program, featuring a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer a full spectrum of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. The hospital is involved in clinical trials, providing access to innovative therapies.

**CMS Star Rating:** UMMC has a 3-star CMS rating.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UMMC can fluctuate. Checking online or calling ahead is recommended.

**Telehealth:** UMMC offers telehealth services, including for cancer patients. Specific availability for lung cancer consultations and follow-up should be confirmed.

**Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) (Towson, MD): A Community-Focused Option**

Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) in Towson, is a shorter drive from 21131 and provides a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. GBMC's Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists collaborating on patient care.

GBMC provides diagnostic services, including advanced imaging, and offers a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They emphasize patient-centered care and support services.

**CMS Star Rating:** GBMC has a 4-star CMS rating.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at GBMC are generally shorter than at larger hospitals. Checking online or by phone is still recommended.

**Telehealth:** GBMC offers telehealth services, including for cancer patients.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

Other hospitals in the broader Baltimore area may also offer lung cancer care. These include:

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):** This hospital offers cancer care and is closer to the 21131 area than some other major hospitals.
* **St. Joseph Medical Center (Towson, MD):** St. Joseph's also provides cancer care and is located in the Towson area.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond the core hospital services, several specialized programs and centers can enhance lung cancer care. These can include:

* **Thoracic Surgery Centers:** Hospitals with dedicated thoracic surgery programs often have surgeons specializing in lung cancer surgery, including minimally invasive techniques.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), are often available at specialized radiation oncology centers.
* **Cancer Rehabilitation Programs:** These programs provide physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services to help patients manage side effects and improve their quality of life.
* **Support Groups and Counseling:** Many hospitals offer support groups and counseling services to help patients and their families cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is critical in lung cancer care. Hospitals in the area offer a range of diagnostic tools, including:

* **Low-Dose CT Scans:** These scans are used for lung cancer screening in high-risk individuals.
* **PET/CT Scans:** These scans help determine the stage of the cancer and assess its response to treatment.
* **Bronchoscopy:** This procedure allows doctors to visualize the airways and obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
* **Biopsy:** Tissue samples are analyzed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type of lung cancer.

**Treatment Options:**

Treatment options for lung cancer vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. Hospitals in the area offer a comprehensive range of treatments, including:

* **Surgery:** Surgical removal of the tumor is often the primary treatment for early-stage lung cancer.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
* **Targeted Therapy:** Targeted therapies are drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
* **Immunotherapy:** Immunotherapy drugs help the body's immune system fight cancer.

**Telehealth and Lung Cancer Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, including lung cancer care. Telehealth can be used for:

* **Initial Consultations:** Some hospitals offer virtual consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments to monitor patients' progress and manage side effects.
* **Support Groups and Counseling:** Virtual support groups and counseling sessions can provide emotional support to patients and their families.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for lung cancer care:

* **Expertise and Experience:** Look for hospitals with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Choose a hospital that offers a multidisciplinary team approach, with specialists from different disciplines working together to provide coordinated care.
* **Access to Advanced Technology:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative therapies.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the hospital's patient-centered care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Location and Convenience:** Consider the hospital's location and the ease of access for appointments and treatments.

**Conclusion:**

The area near ZIP code 21131 offers a range of hospital options for lung cancer care. The Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center are flagship institutions with comprehensive cancer programs. GBMC provides a community-focused approach. Patients should research these options, considering factors like CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to make an informed decision about their care. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking recommendations from other healthcare professionals is also essential. Remember to confirm all information directly with the hospitals, as details can change.