21733, Fairplay, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21733, Fairplay, Maryland is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Frederick, MD: A Scorecard for Patients Near 21733

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, demanding careful consideration of expertise, technology, and patient outcomes. This review focuses on hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 21733 (Frederick, Maryland), providing a fact-rich assessment to aid informed choices. We'll delve into key factors, from CMS star ratings to ER wait times, to give you a comprehensive picture.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers for residents near 21733 include Frederick Health Hospital, located directly in Frederick, and the larger, regional players like Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore and MedStar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. Each offers distinct strengths and caters to different needs.

**Frederick Health Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital, is a vital community resource. While not a nationally recognized cancer center in the same vein as Johns Hopkins, it provides essential services and is a convenient option for many residents. FHH has a dedicated cancer center, offering a range of treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Frederick Health Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient experience, safety, and efficiency. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.
* **ER Wait Times:** According to recent data, the average ER wait time at FHH is around 30-45 minutes. This is a critical factor for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to lung cancer. Shorter wait times can be crucial in ensuring timely intervention.
* **Specialty Centers:** FHH has a multidisciplinary cancer care team, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and support staff. They offer a range of diagnostic and treatment services. However, the hospital may not have the same level of specialized expertise or access to cutting-edge clinical trials as larger, academic medical centers.
* **Telehealth:** FHH has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients managing chronic conditions like lung cancer, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. However, the availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specific specialist and the patient's insurance coverage.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews for FHH are mixed. Some patients praise the compassionate care and convenient location, while others express concerns about wait times or communication. Online reviews can provide valuable insights, but it's essential to consider the source and the context of the feedback.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital: A National Leader**

Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore is a world-renowned medical institution, consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation. Its Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a major hub for lung cancer research and treatment.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently earns a 5-star rating from CMS, reflecting its commitment to high-quality care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can vary, but are often longer than at community hospitals, sometimes exceeding an hour. This is due to the high volume of patients and the complexity of cases.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center offers comprehensive lung cancer services, including advanced diagnostics (PET scans, advanced imaging), surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to cutting-edge clinical trials. They have specialized teams dedicated to specific lung cancer subtypes and stages.
* **Telehealth:** Johns Hopkins has a robust telehealth program, allowing patients to access specialists remotely. This is particularly useful for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available locally.
* **Patient Experience:** Johns Hopkins generally receives positive patient reviews, with many praising the expertise of the physicians and the quality of care. However, some patients report challenges navigating the large system and potential communication issues.

**MedStar Washington Hospital Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

MedStar Washington Hospital Center, located in Washington, D.C., is another major regional hospital offering comprehensive cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** MedStar Washington Hospital Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at MedStar Washington Hospital Center can fluctuate, but are often in the range of 45-60 minutes.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital’s Cancer Institute provides a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists.
* **Telehealth:** MedStar Washington Hospital Center offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews for MedStar Washington Hospital Center are mixed, with some patients praising the quality of care and others expressing concerns about wait times or communication.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Beyond the specific hospital details, several factors should influence your decision:

* **Stage and Type of Lung Cancer:** The complexity of your cancer will influence the level of expertise required. For advanced cases or rare subtypes, a specialized cancer center like Johns Hopkins may be the best choice.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** If you are eligible for a clinical trial, access to these trials can offer the latest treatment options. Major cancer centers are more likely to have active clinical trial programs.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network. Out-of-network care can result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Location and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital, ease of access, and parking availability. Frequent appointments can be burdensome, so proximity is a key factor.
* **Patient Preferences:** Personal preferences, such as the desire for a specific doctor or a preference for a smaller or larger hospital, should also be considered.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care. These services can significantly improve the patient experience.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, requiring collaboration among various specialists. Look for hospitals with well-coordinated teams.

* **Surgical Expertise:** If surgery is required, inquire about the surgeon's experience and the hospital's use of minimally invasive techniques.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Assess the hospital's radiation therapy equipment and the expertise of the radiation oncologists.
* **Medical Oncology:** Evaluate the medical oncologist's experience in treating lung cancer and their access to the latest chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
* **Pulmonary Specialists:** A pulmonologist is often involved in the diagnosis and management of lung cancer.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Hospitals should offer smoking cessation programs to help patients quit smoking, which can improve treatment outcomes.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital. Consult with your primary care physician, oncologist, and other healthcare providers to get their recommendations. Don't hesitate to ask questions and gather as much information as possible before making your choice. This review provides a starting point for your research, but ultimately, the best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides you with the highest quality of care.