21727, Emmitsburg, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21727, Emmitsburg, Maryland is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in Frederick, Maryland: A Comprehensive Review**

Frederick, Maryland, nestled in the heart of the Old Line State, offers a range of healthcare options for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This review focuses on the hospitals closest to the 21727 ZIP code, assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings, providing a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**Frederick Health Hospital: A Local Anchor**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), located at 400 W 7th St, Frederick, MD 21701, is a primary healthcare provider for the Frederick community. While FHH doesn't have a specific "Lung Cancer Center" in the same vein as some larger institutions, it provides essential services for lung cancer patients. The hospital is a vital part of the community and offers a variety of services.

FHH holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not a top-tier rating, it indicates a commitment to providing quality care.

Emergency room (ER) wait times at FHH can fluctuate. Data from recent months suggests an average wait time that may vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources before arriving at the ER.

FHH offers diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans and X-rays, crucial for detecting and staging lung cancer. They also provide chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. Surgical oncology is available, but complex lung surgeries may be referred to larger hospitals in the region.

Telehealth services are available at FHH, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. This can be a convenient option for patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telehealth appointments may vary depending on the specialist and the patient's needs.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

For patients seeking specialized lung cancer care, the proximity to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore (approximately 45 miles from Frederick) is a significant advantage. Johns Hopkins is renowned for its comprehensive cancer care and research. The hospital is a national leader in cancer treatment and research, offering cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials.

Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving a 5-star rating. This reflects its exceptional performance in quality of care, patient safety, and patient satisfaction.

The Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a designated National Cancer Institute (NCI) Comprehensive Cancer Center. This designation signifies that the center meets rigorous standards for cancer research, treatment, and prevention. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, involving pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists.

ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can vary depending on the specific emergency department and the time of day. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources.

Johns Hopkins offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials. The hospital's expertise in minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), can lead to faster recovery times for patients.

Johns Hopkins has a robust telehealth program, allowing patients to access specialists remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**University of Maryland Medical Center: A Comprehensive Option**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore, approximately 45 miles from Frederick, is another major healthcare provider in the region. UMMC offers comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment.

UMMC typically receives a 4-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's commitment to providing quality care and patient safety.

The UMMC Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center is a designated NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center. This designation signifies the center's commitment to cancer research, treatment, and prevention. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, similar to Johns Hopkins.

ER wait times at UMMC can vary depending on the specific emergency department and the time of day. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources.

UMMC provides a comprehensive range of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The hospital's thoracic surgery program is well-regarded, and they offer advanced surgical techniques.

UMMC has a growing telehealth program, allowing patients to access specialists remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Support Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, patients in the Frederick area have access to other resources.

* **Specialty Centers:** While FHH doesn't have a dedicated "Lung Cancer Center," it does collaborate with specialists and offers access to diagnostic and treatment services.
* **Support Services:** Both FHH and the larger hospitals in Baltimore offer support services for cancer patients, including patient navigation, support groups, and counseling. These services are crucial for helping patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.
* **Clinical Trials:** Johns Hopkins and UMMC are actively involved in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies and research opportunities.
* **Patient Navigation:** Both Johns Hopkins and UMMC offer patient navigation services, which can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and access the resources they need.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. Both Johns Hopkins and UMMC have invested in robust telehealth programs, offering remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can be especially beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility issues.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for patients seeking immediate care. While the average wait times at FHH are available, those at the larger hospitals can vary. It's essential for patients to check real-time wait times online or by phone before going to the ER.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a significant decision. Patients should consider several factors:

* **Stage of Cancer:** The stage of the cancer will influence the treatment options available.
* **Treatment Preferences:** Patients should discuss their treatment preferences with their doctors.
* **Access to Specialists:** Access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists is essential.
* **Location and Convenience:** Proximity to the hospital and ease of access are important considerations.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Patients should ensure that the hospital and specialists are within their insurance network.

**Conclusion**

Patients in the 21727 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options for lung cancer care. While Frederick Health Hospital provides essential services, patients seeking specialized care and advanced treatment options may consider Johns Hopkins Hospital or the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. By carefully evaluating their needs and considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions about their care and improve their chances of a positive outcome.