21755, Jefferson, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21755, Jefferson, Maryland is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Frederick, MD: A Scorecard for 21755

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents of Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21755), several options exist, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help you navigate the landscape of care.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Their Strengths**

The healthcare landscape around Frederick, MD, is dominated by a few key players. These hospitals serve as the primary access points for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Understanding their individual profiles is essential for making informed choices.

**Frederick Health Hospital:** This is the primary hospital in Frederick, MD. Frederick Health Hospital is a prominent healthcare provider in the region. It is a full-service hospital offering a range of medical specialties, including oncology. Its proximity to the 21755 ZIP code makes it a convenient option for residents. Frederick Health Hospital has been actively expanding its cancer care services.

**Advanced Oncology Care:** Frederick Health Hospital has an established oncology department. The hospital’s cancer program includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment, involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff.

**CMS Star Ratings:** CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings provide a general overview of a hospital's quality of care. Frederick Health Hospital’s CMS star rating fluctuates, so it's important to check the most recent data on the CMS website. These ratings consider factors like patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in urgent situations. The average ER wait time at Frederick Health Hospital should be readily available on their website or through resources like the Healthgrades website. Long wait times can be a sign of overcrowding or staffing issues, which may affect the overall patient experience.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Frederick Health Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with oncologists and other specialists. Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** Frederick Health Hospital has a dedicated cancer center. The center offers a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support services like counseling and support groups. It is important to inquire about the lung cancer-specific programs offered, such as screening programs, clinical trials, and advanced treatment options.

**Other Considerations:** Consider factors like the hospital's accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons, which indicates a commitment to quality cancer care. Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Beyond Frederick: Exploring Regional Options**

While Frederick Health Hospital is the closest option, residents may also consider hospitals in nearby cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., for specialized care. These facilities often have access to more advanced technologies and a wider range of specialists.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore):** Johns Hopkins Hospital is a world-renowned medical center known for its expertise in cancer treatment. Its Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, indicating a high level of research and clinical care.

**Johns Hopkins: Lung Cancer Expertise:** Johns Hopkins offers a comprehensive lung cancer program, including advanced diagnostic techniques, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The hospital is known for its research in lung cancer and its participation in clinical trials.

**Johns Hopkins: CMS Star Rating:** Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently receives high CMS star ratings. The most recent rating should be available on the CMS website. These ratings reflect the hospital's overall quality of care.

**Johns Hopkins: ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Johns Hopkins Hospital can vary. Check the most recent data on their website or through resources like Healthgrades. Due to the hospital's high volume of patients, wait times may be longer than at smaller hospitals.

**Johns Hopkins: Telehealth:** Johns Hopkins offers telehealth services for cancer patients, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can improve access to specialists and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore):** The University of Maryland Medical Center is another major healthcare provider in the Baltimore area. Its Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center is also an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center.

**University of Maryland: Lung Cancer Services:** The University of Maryland Medical Center offers a comprehensive lung cancer program, including advanced diagnostic techniques, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The hospital has a strong focus on research and clinical trials.

**University of Maryland: CMS Star Rating:** The University of Maryland Medical Center's CMS star rating should be available on the CMS website. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care.

**University of Maryland: ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at the University of Maryland Medical Center can vary. Check the most recent data on their website or through resources like Healthgrades.

**University of Maryland: Telehealth:** The University of Maryland Medical Center offers telehealth services for cancer patients, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (Washington, D.C.):** MedStar Georgetown University Hospital is a major medical center in Washington, D.C., with a strong cancer program.

**MedStar Georgetown: Lung Cancer Services:** MedStar Georgetown offers a comprehensive lung cancer program, including advanced diagnostic techniques, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

**MedStar Georgetown: CMS Star Rating:** Check the CMS website for MedStar Georgetown's most recent star rating.

**MedStar Georgetown: ER Wait Times:** Check their website or Healthgrades for current ER wait times.

**MedStar Georgetown: Telehealth:** MedStar Georgetown offers telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital (Falls Church, VA):** Located in Northern Virginia, Inova Fairfax Hospital is a large, comprehensive hospital with a strong cancer program.

**Inova Fairfax: Lung Cancer Services:** Inova Fairfax offers a comprehensive lung cancer program, including advanced diagnostic techniques, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

**Inova Fairfax: CMS Star Rating:** Check the CMS website for Inova Fairfax's most recent star rating.

**Inova Fairfax: ER Wait Times:** Check their website or Healthgrades for current ER wait times.

**Inova Fairfax: Telehealth:** Inova Fairfax offers telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask**

Choosing the right hospital involves asking the right questions. Here are some key inquiries to guide your decision-making process:

* **What is the hospital's experience treating lung cancer?** Inquire about the number of lung cancer patients treated annually and the experience of the medical team.
* **What treatment options are available?** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Does the hospital participate in clinical trials?** Clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **What support services are available?** Look for support services like counseling, support groups, and palliative care.
* **What is the hospital's patient satisfaction rating?** Patient satisfaction surveys can provide insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.
* **What are the hospital's infection control practices?** Ask about the hospital's measures to prevent infections, which are particularly important for cancer patients.
* **What are the hospital's telehealth capabilities?** Inquire about the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring.
* **What is the hospital's financial assistance policy?** Understand the hospital's policies regarding financial assistance and payment options.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

The best hospital for lung cancer treatment depends on individual needs and preferences. Residents of 21755 have several options, from the local Frederick Health Hospital to the renowned centers in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. By considering the factors outlined in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, you can make an informed decision and find the best possible care. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to develop a personalized treatment plan.