21705, Frederick, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21705, Frederick, Maryland is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in Frederick, Maryland: A Scorecard for 21705 Residents**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical first step. This review analyzes the lung cancer care landscape for residents of ZIP code 21705 (Frederick, Maryland), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. While this review aims to provide helpful information, it's essential to consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on quality and patient experience. These ratings offer a general sense of a hospital's performance, though they don't capture the nuances of every specialty.

Frederick Health Hospital, located in Frederick, MD, is a primary healthcare provider for the 21705 area. As of the most recent CMS data, Frederick Health Hospital holds a [Insert current CMS Star Rating for Frederick Health Hospital – this information changes, and you must verify the current rating]. This rating reflects performance across various metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient satisfaction.

Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance for 21705 residents include:

* **Inova Fairfax Hospital (Falls Church, VA):** Located approximately 50 miles from Frederick, Inova Fairfax Hospital is a large, tertiary care center. It often attracts patients seeking specialized care. [Insert current CMS Star Rating for Inova Fairfax Hospital – this information changes, and you must verify the current rating].
* **Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):** About 55 miles from Frederick, Johns Hopkins Hospital is renowned for its advanced medical expertise and research. It typically receives patients with complex medical needs. [Insert current CMS Star Rating for Johns Hopkins Hospital – this information changes, and you must verify the current rating].
* **University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):** Also in Baltimore, the University of Maryland Medical Center is a major teaching hospital. [Insert current CMS Star Rating for University of Maryland Medical Center – this information changes, and you must verify the current rating].

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms. Data on ER wait times is often dynamic and varies depending on the time of day and day of the week.

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** Publicly available data on ER wait times for Frederick Health Hospital can be found on their website or through platforms like the CMS Hospital Compare website. [Insert a sentence with the most recent data on average ER wait times for Frederick Health Hospital, if available. If not, note where to find the information].
* **Other Hospitals:** ER wait times for Inova Fairfax Hospital, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and University of Maryland Medical Center can also be found through their respective websites or the CMS Hospital Compare website. Consider travel time when assessing these options.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Services**

Specialized lung cancer centers offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, integrating medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, pulmonology, and other specialists.

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** Frederick Health Hospital offers lung cancer screening programs, diagnostic services (including imaging and biopsies), and treatment options. [If available, mention specific details about their lung cancer program, such as accreditation or specialized clinics].
* **Inova Fairfax Hospital:** Inova Fairfax Hospital's Schar Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer center that includes lung cancer care. They offer advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and supportive services.
* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins has a renowned lung cancer program, known for its research and innovative treatments. They offer a full spectrum of services, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.
* **University of Maryland Medical Center:** The University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center provides comprehensive lung cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important for cancer care, offering patients convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services.

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** [If available, mention whether Frederick Health Hospital offers telehealth services for lung cancer patients, and the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring)].
* **Other Hospitals:** Inova Fairfax Hospital, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and University of Maryland Medical Center likely have robust telehealth programs. [Mention if you have information on the availability of telehealth services at these hospitals. Note any specific details, such as the platforms used or types of appointments available].

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Research activity is often a sign of a hospital's commitment to advancing lung cancer care.

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** [If available, mention if Frederick Health Hospital participates in lung cancer clinical trials. If not, mention where to find information on clinical trials].
* **Other Hospitals:** Inova Fairfax Hospital, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and University of Maryland Medical Center are major research institutions and likely have active clinical trial programs for lung cancer. [Mention where to find information on clinical trials at these hospitals].

**Patient Support and Resources**

Lung cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Access to support services is vital.

* **Frederick Health Hospital:** [If available, mention if Frederick Health Hospital offers patient support services, such as support groups, counseling, or patient navigators].
* **Other Hospitals:** Inova Fairfax Hospital, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and University of Maryland Medical Center typically offer a range of patient support services, including support groups, counseling, financial assistance, and patient navigators.

**Insurance and Cost Considerations**

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs are significant factors. Contact your insurance provider to determine which hospitals are in your network and what your coverage includes.

* **Hospital Websites:** Hospital websites often provide information about accepted insurance plans.
* **Financial Counselors:** Most hospitals have financial counselors who can help patients understand their costs and explore payment options.

**Physician Credentials and Experience**

The experience and expertise of your medical team are paramount. Research the credentials and experience of the physicians who will be involved in your care.

* **Hospital Websites:** Hospital websites often provide physician profiles, including their education, training, and areas of specialization.
* **Professional Organizations:** Websites of professional organizations, such as the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), can provide information about physician credentials.

**Community Resources**

Local organizations can provide additional support and resources.

* **American Cancer Society:** The American Cancer Society offers support services, information, and resources for cancer patients and their families.
* **Lung Cancer Research Foundation:** The Lung Cancer Research Foundation provides information and support for lung cancer patients.
* **Local Support Groups:** Search for local lung cancer support groups in the Frederick, MD area.

**Making Your Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the factors discussed in this review, including hospital quality, specialized services, accessibility, and your individual needs and preferences. Consult with your primary care physician and, if possible, seek second opinions from specialists at different hospitals.