08226, Ocean City, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08226, Ocean City, New Jersey is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 08226 (Ocean City, NJ)**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized resources and experienced medical teams, is a critical first step. This review examines hospitals in the vicinity of Ocean City, NJ (ZIP code 08226), focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making during a difficult time.

**Atlanticare Regional Medical Center (ARMC) – Mainland Campus, Pomona, NJ**

Atlanticare Regional Medical Center (ARMC) – Mainland Campus, located in Pomona, NJ, is a key healthcare provider in the region. While it’s not directly in Ocean City, it serves a significant portion of the surrounding area. ARMC does not have a dedicated lung cancer center, but offers comprehensive cancer care through its Cancer Care Institute. ARMC's CMS star rating is currently unavailable, but it is important to check the latest data on the CMS website.

ARMC's emergency room wait times can vary. According to recent data, the average ER wait time at ARMC-Mainland is around 30 minutes, but it's crucial to remember that these figures fluctuate based on patient volume and time of day. ARMC offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in more remote areas or those with mobility issues. The availability of specific telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (ARMC) – City Campus, Atlantic City, NJ**

ARMC’s City Campus, located in Atlantic City, NJ, is another major hospital within reasonable proximity to Ocean City. Similar to the Mainland Campus, the City Campus does not have a specific, standalone lung cancer center. However, the hospital provides cancer care through its Cancer Care Institute.

The CMS star rating for ARMC-City Campus is also unavailable at this time. ER wait times at the City Campus can also vary. Recent data suggests an average wait time of approximately 45 minutes, but this is subject to change. ARMC-City Campus also offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with various specialists. Patients should verify the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer-related care.

**Shore Medical Center, Somers Point, NJ**

Shore Medical Center, located in Somers Point, NJ, is a community hospital that is geographically closer to Ocean City than ARMC's campuses. Shore Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated oncology department. While it doesn’t have a specific "lung cancer center," it offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment.

Shore Medical Center's CMS star rating is not available. The hospital’s ER wait times are usually shorter than those of larger hospitals. The average ER wait time at Shore Medical Center is approximately 20 minutes, but this can fluctuate. Shore Medical Center has expanded its telehealth services in recent years, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer patients.

**Cooper University Health Care, Camden, NJ**

Cooper University Health Care, located in Camden, NJ, is a large academic medical center that is further away from Ocean City but offers a wide range of specialized services. Cooper has a dedicated MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. This center provides comprehensive lung cancer care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

Cooper University Health Care has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times at Cooper can be longer than at community hospitals, often exceeding an hour. The hospital offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups. Cooper’s MD Anderson Cancer Center is known for its research and clinical trials in lung cancer.

**Jefferson Health – New Jersey, Stratford, NJ**

Jefferson Health – New Jersey, located in Stratford, NJ, is another major healthcare system in the region. While not as close to Ocean City as some other hospitals, it provides access to a broad range of medical specialties. Jefferson Health offers comprehensive cancer care services, including lung cancer treatment.

Jefferson Health – New Jersey has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times at Jefferson Health – New Jersey can vary, but are typically around 45 minutes. Jefferson Health has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring. Patients should confirm the availability of lung cancer-specific telehealth services.

**Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, several factors should be considered. The availability of a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and specialized nurses, is crucial. Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans, CT scans, and bronchoscopy, is also essential.

Treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, should be readily available. Participation in clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital's support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care, can significantly improve the patient experience.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

While not every hospital has a dedicated "lung cancer center," many offer specialized programs and services. These may include:

* **Thoracic Surgery:** Hospitals with thoracic surgeons can perform surgical procedures to remove lung tumors.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists manage chemotherapy and targeted therapy treatments.
* **Pulmonology:** Pulmonologists diagnose and manage lung conditions, including lung cancer.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Patient Navigation:** Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the healthcare system.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups provide emotional support and information.

**Telehealth and Lung Cancer**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, including lung cancer care. Telehealth can provide:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Patients can consult with specialists remotely.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Patients can be monitored remotely for symptoms and side effects.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth can facilitate medication management and refills.
* **Support Groups:** Virtual support groups can connect patients with others facing similar challenges.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

ER wait times are an important consideration, especially during a crisis. Shorter wait times can indicate a more efficient ER and potentially faster access to care. However, wait times can vary greatly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume.

**CMS Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. Higher star ratings indicate better performance in various areas, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. However, it’s important to remember that these ratings are just one factor to consider.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care near Ocean City, NJ, requires careful consideration of various factors. While no single hospital is perfect for every patient, this review provides a starting point for assessing the available options. Patients should research the specific services offered by each hospital, consult with their primary care physician, and seek second opinions as needed. The best choice will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific stage and type of lung cancer.