21521, Barton, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21521, Barton, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 21521: A Comprehensive Review**

Finding the best lung cancer care is a critical journey. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 21521, providing a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities, resources, and performance metrics. The goal is to empower patients and their families with the information needed to make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Major Players**

ZIP code 21521, located in Maryland, gives residents access to a range of hospitals, including those in the Baltimore metropolitan area. The proximity to major medical centers significantly broadens the available options for lung cancer treatment.

**The Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD)**

Johns Hopkins Hospital, a globally recognized institution, is a dominant force in the region. It consistently ranks among the best hospitals in the United States. Johns Hopkins' Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, signifying its commitment to research, prevention, and advanced treatment. This designation is a major indicator of expertise in lung cancer care.

The hospital's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. The Johns Hopkins Hospital has consistently earned high ratings, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and positive outcomes. Specific data on its current star rating can be found on the CMS website.

Johns Hopkins offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer, with teams of medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists collaborating on each patient's care. They are at the forefront of clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge therapies.

ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can vary, but the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. The average wait time can be found on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare tool.

Telehealth services are increasingly important. Johns Hopkins has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments for lung cancer patients. This can improve access to care, especially for those living further away or with mobility issues. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits and patient satisfaction rates, are available on the hospital's website.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD)**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) is another major player in the Baltimore area, with a strong reputation for comprehensive cancer care. It is a teaching hospital, providing access to a wide range of specialists and advanced treatment options.

UMMC's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center is an NCI-designated cancer center, reflecting its commitment to research and patient care. This designation is a strong indicator of the hospital's expertise in lung cancer.

The hospital's CMS star rating provides a valuable overview of its performance. UMMC's rating, found on the CMS website, reflects its commitment to quality and patient safety.

UMMC offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer, with a team of experts working together to develop individualized treatment plans. The hospital is involved in clinical trials, providing access to the latest therapies.

ER wait times at UMMC can vary. The hospital's website or the CMS Hospital Compare tool provides up-to-date information on average wait times.

Telehealth services are available at UMMC, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital is expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve access to care. Specific statistics on telehealth usage and patient satisfaction are available on the hospital's website.

**MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center (Baltimore, MD)**

MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, located closer to ZIP code 21521, offers a comprehensive cancer program. While not an NCI-designated cancer center, it provides a range of services for lung cancer patients.

The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. The current rating can be found on the CMS website.

MedStar Franklin Square provides a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, with a team of specialists working together to develop treatment plans.

ER wait times at MedStar Franklin Square are a factor to consider. The hospital's website or the CMS Hospital Compare tool provides information on average wait times.

Telehealth services are available at MedStar Franklin Square, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Details on telehealth usage and patient satisfaction can be found on the hospital's website.

**Other Considerations**

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, patients should investigate specialized lung cancer programs. These programs may focus on specific types of lung cancer, offer advanced treatment options like robotic surgery or targeted therapies, or provide comprehensive support services, including patient navigation and support groups.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times can be a significant concern. Patients should research average wait times at hospitals, using resources like the CMS Hospital Compare tool and hospital websites. Shorter wait times can be crucial in emergency situations.

**Telehealth:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for lung cancer patients. Virtual consultations and follow-up appointments can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide greater convenience. Patients should inquire about telehealth capabilities at each hospital.

**Patient Outcomes and Survival Rates:**

While specific survival rates can be difficult to obtain and vary based on cancer stage and other factors, patients should ask about the hospital's experience and outcomes. The hospital's website or the CMS Hospital Compare tool may provide some data.

**Patient Satisfaction:**

Patient satisfaction is a critical indicator of quality. Patients should research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the hospital's care and services.

**Clinical Trials:**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies. Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Patients should verify that the hospital and its physicians are in their insurance network.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about financial assistance programs and payment options.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near ZIP code 21521. By considering factors like hospital reputation, CMS star ratings, specialty programs, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and patient outcomes, patients can make informed choices and find the best possible care. It's crucial to gather information from multiple sources, consult with healthcare providers, and consider individual needs and preferences.