08251, Villas, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08251, Villas, New Jersey is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the 08251 Vicinity: A Deep Dive

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized expertise and resources, is a critical first step. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 08251 (Ocean City, NJ) focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. This information is intended to provide a comprehensive overview, but it is essential to consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of 08251 doesn't boast a plethora of major, independently-ranked hospitals. However, several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer varying levels of lung cancer care. Residents often look towards Atlantic County and the Philadelphia metropolitan area for advanced treatment options. The availability of specialized care can vary significantly, so understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is crucial.

**Shore Medical Center (Somers Point, NJ): A Local Hub**

Shore Medical Center, located in Somers Point, NJ (approximately 10 minutes from Ocean City), serves as a primary healthcare provider for the region. Shore Medical Center is a non-profit, community hospital. While not a dedicated cancer center, it provides foundational care, including diagnostic imaging and some chemotherapy services. Shore Medical Center is a member of the Penn Medicine network.

Shore Medical Center’s CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. As of the latest available data, Shore Medical Center has a 3-star rating. This rating reflects performance across several key areas, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. It's important to remember that CMS ratings are just one data point, and individual experiences can vary.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially in a medical emergency. The average ER wait time at Shore Medical Center fluctuates, but recent data suggests a wait time generally in line with the national average. However, it's always best to check current wait times, which are often available on the hospital's website or through third-party services.

Regarding lung cancer-specific services, Shore Medical Center offers diagnostic imaging, including CT scans and potentially PET scans, essential for detecting and staging lung cancer. They also provide chemotherapy services. For more complex cases, patients may be referred to specialists at larger facilities within the Penn Medicine network.

Telehealth options at Shore Medical Center are expanding. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring, especially for patients who live at a distance or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients is something to inquire about directly with the hospital.

**AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (Atlantic City & Pomona, NJ): A Broader Network**

AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (ARMC) operates two campuses, one in Atlantic City and another in Pomona, NJ. ARMC is a larger system than Shore Medical Center, offering a broader range of services and specialists. ARMC is affiliated with Geisinger Health.

ARMC's CMS star rating is a significant factor in evaluating its quality. As of the most recent data, ARMC has a 3-star rating. This rating reflects performance across a variety of metrics, and patients should consider this rating in conjunction with other factors.

ER wait times at ARMC can vary depending on the campus and time of day. Generally, ARMC's ER wait times are often within the national average. However, it's crucial to verify current wait times, which are typically available on the hospital's website or through third-party services.

AtlantiCare has a cancer center, which is a key advantage for lung cancer patients. The ARMC Cancer Care Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists to create personalized treatment plans. They provide diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and potentially access to clinical trials.

Telehealth services are increasingly available at AtlantiCare. Telehealth options can include virtual consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The availability of specific telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the ARMC Cancer Care Institute.

**Jefferson Health (Philadelphia, PA): A Regional Powerhouse**

Jefferson Health, located in Philadelphia, PA, is a major academic medical center and a significant regional resource. While located further away from 08251, it offers advanced lung cancer care and specialized expertise. The travel time from Ocean City to Philadelphia is typically around 1.5-2 hours.

Jefferson Health's flagship hospitals, such as Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, generally receive high CMS star ratings. These ratings reflect excellence in various areas of patient care, including patient safety and effectiveness. The exact rating can vary from year to year, so checking the most recent data is essential.

Emergency room wait times at Jefferson Health hospitals can vary depending on the specific hospital and the time of day. However, as a large, complex system, they often experience higher patient volumes. Checking current wait times is crucial, as they can fluctuate significantly.

Jefferson Health offers comprehensive lung cancer care. Their specialized centers, such as the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, provide a multidisciplinary approach, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology. They offer advanced diagnostic imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Jefferson has a strong reputation for research and innovation in cancer treatment.

Telehealth is a prominent feature at Jefferson Health. They offer a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live at a distance or have mobility limitations.

**Cooper University Health Care (Camden, NJ): Another Philadelphia-Area Option**

Cooper University Health Care, located in Camden, NJ, is another major medical center in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, offering advanced lung cancer care. The travel time from Ocean City to Camden is typically around 1-1.5 hours.

Cooper University Health Care's flagship hospitals generally receive high CMS star ratings, reflecting their commitment to quality and patient safety. Checking the most recent data is important to get an accurate picture of their performance.

Emergency room wait times at Cooper can fluctuate. It's advisable to check the current wait times, which are often available on the hospital's website or through third-party services.

Cooper offers comprehensive lung cancer care through its MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology. They offer advanced diagnostic imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials.

Telehealth services are available at Cooper. They offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The availability of specific telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper.

**Considerations Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Beyond hospital-specific factors, several other considerations are important for lung cancer patients.

* **Patient Experience:** Reviews and testimonials from other patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the communication style of the medical team, and the overall patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network is crucial. Understand your plan's coverage for specific treatments, tests, and medications.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling services. These resources can be invaluable in navigating the emotional and practical challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.
* **Proximity to Home:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access. Frequent appointments and treatments can make travel a significant factor.
* **Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another oncologist, especially if you have questions or concerns about your treatment plan.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. Shore Medical Center provides local care, while AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center offers a broader range of services. Jefferson Health and Cooper University Health Care, located in the Philadelphia area, offer advanced specialized care.

Patients near 08251 have several options. Carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth options, and patient reviews. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and the specific recommendations of your physician. Thorough research and open communication with your medical team are essential to making an informed decision and embarking on the path to effective lung cancer treatment.