21702, Frederick, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21702, Frederick, Maryland is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (21702)

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right care, close to home, is critical. This review assesses hospitals near Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21702), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients: expertise, technology, access, and patient outcomes. This isn't a ranking, but a fact-based overview to help you make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Profiles**

The immediate area surrounding Frederick offers several hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses in lung cancer care. The primary players include Frederick Health Hospital, with a significant local presence, and facilities within a reasonable driving distance in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas. These larger hospitals often boast more specialized resources.

**Frederick Health Hospital:**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH) is the primary hospital serving Frederick County. FHH is a major player in the region, and its lung cancer program is a crucial resource for the community. They have a dedicated oncology center and offer a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:**

FHH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, considering factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is average, it's essential to remember that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a key indicator of access. Data suggests that ER wait times at FHH can fluctuate. Checking current wait times on their website or through online resources is crucial, particularly during peak hours. This is important because a rapid diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

FHH has a cancer center, which is a key component of their lung cancer care. This center offers multidisciplinary care, bringing together pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. They also have a dedicated team of nurses and support staff specializing in cancer care. The presence of a multidisciplinary team is a significant advantage, ensuring comprehensive treatment planning.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important. FHH offers telehealth services, which can be valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing side effects. The availability of telehealth can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients who live far away.

**Outcomes and Data:**

Specific lung cancer survival rates and outcomes data are not always publicly available at the hospital level. However, you can inquire about these metrics during consultations. Ask about the hospital's participation in national registries and quality improvement programs. These programs often collect and analyze data to improve patient outcomes.

**Beyond Frederick: Exploring Regional Options**

Patients in Frederick have access to several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, offering specialized lung cancer services. These hospitals may have advanced technologies, research opportunities, and a broader range of specialists.

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

Johns Hopkins Hospital is a world-renowned institution, consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation. They have a comprehensive lung cancer program with cutting-edge research, advanced treatment options, and a team of highly specialized physicians.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:**

Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently receives a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. Their reputation for excellence extends to their cancer care, making them a strong option for complex cases.

**ER Wait Times:**

Due to its high volume, ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can be longer than at smaller hospitals. It's essential to consider this when deciding where to seek emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Johns Hopkins has a dedicated lung cancer center that offers a full spectrum of services, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, and clinical trials. Their specialists are at the forefront of research and treatment.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Johns Hopkins offers robust telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their providers remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live outside of Baltimore.

**Outcomes and Data:**

Johns Hopkins is known for its excellent outcomes in lung cancer treatment. They actively participate in clinical trials and research, constantly striving to improve patient outcomes. You can often find survival rates and other outcome data on their website or through their patient information services.

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

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) is another major academic medical center in the Baltimore area. They have a strong lung cancer program with a focus on research and innovation.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:**

UMMC generally receives a good CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. They are a major teaching hospital, which often translates to access to the latest treatments and technologies.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times at UMMC can fluctuate, so checking current wait times before visiting is advisable.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

UMMC has a comprehensive cancer center that offers a wide range of services for lung cancer patients. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

UMMC provides telehealth services, enabling patients to access care remotely. This is a valuable resource for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Outcomes and Data:**

UMMC actively participates in clinical trials and collects data on patient outcomes. You can often find information on their website or through their patient services department.

**MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (Washington, D.C.):**

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital offers comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. Their location in the nation's capital provides access to a wide range of specialists and resources.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:**

MedStar Georgetown receives a good CMS star rating, reflecting their commitment to quality and patient safety.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times at MedStar Georgetown can vary, so checking current wait times before visiting is advisable.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

MedStar Georgetown has a comprehensive cancer center that provides a full range of lung cancer services. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists and offer advanced treatment options.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

MedStar Georgetown offers telehealth services, enabling patients to connect with their providers remotely.

**Outcomes and Data:**

MedStar Georgetown actively participates in clinical trials and collects data on patient outcomes.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

Beyond the specific hospital profiles, several factors are critical for lung cancer patients:

* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Look for hospitals with a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care staff.
* **Access to Advanced Technologies:** Consider hospitals with access to advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, and radiation therapy techniques.
* **Clinical Trials:** Explore hospitals that offer clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Patient Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and financial counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan and that the services you need are covered.
* **Proximity and Transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the availability of transportation, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's patient experience.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a factual overview of hospitals near Frederick, MD (21702), highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital to make the best choice for your care. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to discuss your options and develop a personalized treatment plan.