21756, Keedysville, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21756, Keedysville, Maryland is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Frederick, Maryland: A Scorecard for 21756

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 21756 (Frederick, Maryland), providing a fact-based assessment of their capabilities, resources, and performance in lung cancer care. The information presented here aims to help patients make informed choices, considering factors from overall hospital quality to specialized lung cancer programs.

**The Landscape: Hospitals in and Around Frederick**

The primary healthcare providers serving Frederick County include Frederick Health Hospital (formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital) and, within a reasonable driving distance, major medical centers in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore metropolitan areas. These larger facilities often offer specialized cancer centers and advanced treatment options.

**Frederick Health Hospital: A Local Anchor**

Frederick Health Hospital is the primary hospital within the 21756 ZIP code. It is a vital community resource, offering a range of medical services, including cancer care. While specific lung cancer survival rates are not always publicly available at the hospital level, the hospital's overall quality is reflected in its CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating. CMS star ratings, based on data from the Hospital Compare website, provide a snapshot of a hospital's performance across various quality measures. As of the latest available data, Frederick Health Hospital has a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here - this information changes frequently and needs to be verified directly from the CMS website]. This rating reflects the hospital's performance in areas such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Lung Cancer Services at Frederick Health Hospital**

Frederick Health Hospital provides a comprehensive cancer program, including diagnostic services, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital has a dedicated oncology unit and a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncology nurses. The hospital's website and patient resources provide information on lung cancer screening programs, often including low-dose CT scans for individuals at high risk.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to lung cancer. Frederick Health Hospital's ER wait times, as reported on the Hospital Compare website, are typically [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time Here - this information changes frequently and needs to be verified directly from the CMS website]. While these are averages, it's important to remember that individual wait times can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the volume of patients.

**Beyond Frederick: Exploring Regional Options**

For more specialized care and advanced treatment options, patients in the 21756 area may consider hospitals in the Washington D.C. and Baltimore metropolitan areas. These facilities often have dedicated lung cancer centers and access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore: A National Leader**

Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in Baltimore, is a nationally recognized leader in cancer care. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States for cancer treatment. The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins offers a comprehensive lung cancer program, including advanced diagnostic techniques, minimally invasive surgical procedures, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Johns Hopkins Hospital boasts a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here - this information changes frequently and needs to be verified directly from the CMS website] CMS star rating.

**Johns Hopkins: Lung Cancer Program Specifics**

The Kimmel Cancer Center's lung cancer program includes a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. The hospital's website provides detailed information on its lung cancer services, including screening programs, treatment options, and patient support services. Johns Hopkins also has a robust research program, contributing to advancements in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Patients benefit from access to the latest clinical trials and innovative therapies.

**University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore: A Comprehensive Approach**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), also in Baltimore, is another major medical center serving the region. The hospital's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. UMMC provides a full range of lung cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. UMMC holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here - this information changes frequently and needs to be verified directly from the CMS website] CMS star rating.

**UMMC: Lung Cancer Center Highlights**

The Greenebaum Cancer Center at UMMC features a multidisciplinary team of experts specializing in lung cancer. The center emphasizes a patient-centered approach, providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. UMMC's lung cancer program actively participates in clinical trials, giving patients access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital also offers supportive care services, including patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, VA: A Northern Virginia Option**

While slightly further afield, Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia, provides another option for lung cancer care for patients in the 21756 area. Inova Fairfax Hospital is a large, comprehensive medical center with a dedicated cancer center. The hospital's Schar Cancer Institute offers advanced lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Inova Fairfax Hospital has a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here - this information changes frequently and needs to be verified directly from the CMS website] CMS star rating.

**Inova Fairfax: Lung Cancer Program Overview**

The Schar Cancer Institute at Inova Fairfax Hospital provides a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care. The hospital's website details its lung cancer screening programs, treatment options, and supportive services. The institute also emphasizes research and innovation, offering patients access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Frederick Health Hospital and the regional hospitals mentioned above offer telehealth options, though the specific availability and scope of these services can vary. Patients should inquire directly with each hospital about its telehealth capabilities. Some hospitals may also offer remote patient monitoring programs to track patients' symptoms and vital signs.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the general cancer programs, some hospitals have specialized centers or programs focused on specific aspects of lung cancer care. For example, some hospitals may have dedicated thoracic surgery programs, interventional pulmonology programs, or palliative care programs. Patients should investigate the specific programs offered by each hospital to determine which best meets their needs.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage for lung cancer patients. Johns Hopkins Hospital, the University of Maryland Medical Center, and Inova Fairfax Hospital are all actively involved in lung cancer research and offer a wide range of clinical trials. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologists.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are critical indicators of hospital quality. Patients can find information on patient satisfaction scores on the Hospital Compare website and other online resources. These scores reflect patients' experiences with various aspects of their care, including communication with doctors and nurses, pain management, and overall satisfaction.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options at each hospital. The hospital's financial counselors can provide information on these resources.

**Making the Decision: Key Considerations**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Patients should consider the following factors:

* **Hospital Quality:** CMS star ratings, accreditation status, and overall reputation.
* **Specialized Expertise:** The availability of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Treatment Options:** The range of treatment options offered, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials.
* **Technology and Resources:** Access to advanced diagnostic techniques, imaging technologies, and treatment equipment.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction scores, communication with healthcare providers, and availability of support services.
* **Accessibility:** Location, travel time, and ER wait times.
* **Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:** The availability of telehealth services and remote patient monitoring programs.
* **Financial Considerations:** Insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

This review provides a snapshot of the lung cancer care landscape near ZIP code 21756. The best hospital for each patient will depend on their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of their cancer. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians, oncologists, and other healthcare providers to make an informed decision and develop a personalized treatment plan. Thorough research, careful consideration of the factors outlined above, and open communication with healthcare professionals are essential for navigating this challenging journey. Remember to always verify the most current information on hospital ratings and services directly from the source, as these details are subject to change.