08016, Burlington, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08016, Burlington, New Jersey is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the 08016 Vicinity: A Scorecard

Finding the best care for lung cancer is a complex undertaking, especially when navigating the healthcare landscape. This review provides a fact-based overview of hospitals near ZIP code 08016 (Cherry Hill, NJ), focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient experience. The goal is to offer a snapshot of available resources, allowing patients and their families to make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Flagship Institutions:**

The immediate vicinity of 08016 is well-served by several prominent hospitals. The closest major players include Cooper University Hospital in Camden, Virtua Voorhees Hospital, and Jefferson Health – Cherry Hill Hospital. These institutions represent the core of accessible healthcare for residents in the area.

**Cooper University Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Cooper University Hospital, a Level I Trauma Center, is a significant presence in the region. Cooper has a strong reputation for its comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. Their MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists.

Cooper's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating, a publicly available measure of hospital quality, is a crucial indicator. While these ratings can fluctuate, understanding the current score provides a quick benchmark. As of October 26, 2023, Cooper University Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating considers various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Cooper's ER wait times, a critical factor for patients experiencing acute symptoms, are available online and should be checked in real-time. The hospital's website and other sources provide this information.

**Virtua Voorhees Hospital: Community-Focused Care**

Virtua Voorhees Hospital, another major player in the area, offers a different perspective on care. While not a designated flagship cancer center like Cooper's MD Anderson, Virtua Voorhees provides a robust oncology program, including lung cancer services. Their approach often emphasizes community-based care, focusing on accessibility and patient support within a more local setting.

Virtua Voorhees Hospital's CMS star rating is also a key metric. It is advisable to check the most recent rating from CMS to understand its performance relative to other hospitals. Virtua's ER wait times are also publicly available.

**Jefferson Health – Cherry Hill Hospital: Local Access**

Jefferson Health – Cherry Hill Hospital provides another option for lung cancer care, particularly for residents in the immediate vicinity of 08016. As part of the larger Jefferson Health network, it can offer access to specialized expertise and resources.

Jefferson Health – Cherry Hill Hospital's CMS star rating should be considered. The hospital's ER wait times are also important to consider when seeking care.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond the general hospitals, the presence of specialized centers is a significant factor. The proximity of these centers, and their specific expertise in lung cancer, can be a deciding factor for patients.

Cooper's MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper is a major draw. This affiliation brings a renowned cancer center's resources and expertise to the region. The center offers advanced treatments, clinical trials, and a team of specialists dedicated to lung cancer care.

**Treatment Options and Technology:**

The availability of advanced treatment options is critical. This includes access to the latest surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive procedures (e.g., video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery or VATS), radiation therapy technologies (e.g., stereotactic body radiation therapy or SBRT), and systemic therapies (e.g., targeted therapies and immunotherapies).

Inquire about the specific technologies available at each hospital, including the presence of advanced imaging equipment (e.g., PET/CT scans) for diagnosis and staging.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Check the availability of telehealth options at each hospital. This can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in more rural areas.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of care. Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling. These services can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

Review patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews to get a sense of the patient experience at each hospital.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials for lung cancer at each hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. Shorter wait times can mean faster diagnosis and treatment.

Check the real-time ER wait times on each hospital's website or through third-party sources. Be aware that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Confirm that the hospitals and physicians are in your insurance network. Inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs for patients who may have difficulty paying for their care.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer:**

Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach. Ensure that the hospital has a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists.

Ask about the hospital's experience with specific types of lung cancer, such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

**Data Sources and Verification:**

This review relies on publicly available data from sources such as CMS, hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare information providers. Always verify the information with the hospitals directly, as data can change frequently.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research. Consider all the factors mentioned above, including the hospital's CMS star rating, ER wait times, specialty centers, treatment options, telehealth services, patient experience, and insurance coverage. Consult with your primary care physician and seek second opinions from specialists to make the best decision for your individual needs.