43517, Edgerton, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43517, Edgerton, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 43517**

Finding the best lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just proximity. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 43517 (Bowling Green, Ohio), assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. These ratings offer a snapshot of overall hospital performance. While no single rating perfectly captures lung cancer care, they provide a valuable starting point.

**Wood County Hospital (Bowling Green, OH):** Located directly within the 43517 ZIP code, Wood County Hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects its performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency. While this is a good starting point, it is important to note that CMS ratings do not specifically focus on lung cancer care.

**Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center (Toledo, OH):** Situated approximately 25 miles from Bowling Green, St. Vincent Medical Center is a larger, tertiary care facility. It is a flagship hospital within the Mercy Health system and is a Level I Trauma Center. St. Vincent has a 3-star CMS rating. It is important to note that its rating does not specifically assess lung cancer care.

**University of Toledo Medical Center (Toledo, OH):** Located roughly 20 miles from Bowling Green, UTMC is the primary teaching hospital for the University of Toledo. UTMC also holds a 3-star CMS rating. UTMC's cancer services are a key component of its offerings.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant indicator of hospital efficiency and access to care. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, particularly in situations where rapid diagnosis or treatment is critical.

**Wood County Hospital:** As a community hospital, Wood County Hospital's ER wait times are often shorter than those of larger, tertiary care centers. However, specific wait time data fluctuates and should be verified directly with the hospital or through online resources like the ER Wait Times website.

**Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center:** As a Level I Trauma Center, St. Vincent's ER sees a high volume of patients. ER wait times may be longer than at Wood County Hospital. Checking real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online resources is advisable before visiting.

**University of Toledo Medical Center:** UTMC's ER wait times may vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. Again, checking real-time data is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise**

The presence of dedicated cancer centers and specialized programs significantly impacts the quality of lung cancer care. These centers often offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced technologies, and access to clinical trials.

**Wood County Hospital:** Wood County Hospital offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. While it does not have a dedicated cancer center, it provides essential cancer care within the community.

**Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center:** St. Vincent Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer program. This program includes a dedicated cancer center with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and support staff. It also offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery and targeted therapies.

**University of Toledo Medical Center:** UTMC's cancer services are integrated within its broader medical offerings. UTMC provides a range of cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, offering convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**Wood County Hospital:** Wood County Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. Telehealth options may include virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring programs.

**Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center:** St. Vincent Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, including virtual appointments with oncologists, access to remote patient monitoring tools, and educational resources.

**University of Toledo Medical Center:** UTMC has also invested in telehealth capabilities. Telehealth options include virtual consultations, remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment, and support groups.

**Diagnostic Capabilities and Treatment Options**

The availability of advanced diagnostic tools and a wide range of treatment options is crucial for effective lung cancer care.

**Wood County Hospital:** Wood County Hospital offers diagnostic services, including imaging (CT scans, X-rays) and biopsy capabilities. Treatment options include chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

**Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center:** St. Vincent Medical Center provides a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment options. This includes advanced imaging (PET/CT scans, MRI), minimally invasive surgical techniques (e.g., VATS), chemotherapy, radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like IMRT and stereotactic body radiation therapy), and targeted therapies. They also have clinical trial participation.

**University of Toledo Medical Center:** UTMC offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options, including advanced imaging, surgical procedures, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. They also participate in clinical trials.

**Patient Support and Resources**

Comprehensive cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. Patient support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance, are essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Wood County Hospital:** Wood County Hospital offers patient support services, including social work and patient navigation. They may also have access to local support groups.

**Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center:** St. Vincent Medical Center provides a wide range of patient support services, including social work, oncology nurses, support groups, nutritional counseling, and financial assistance resources.

**University of Toledo Medical Center:** UTMC offers patient support services, including social work, patient navigation, support groups, and access to financial assistance programs.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care requires careful consideration of various factors. For residents of the 43517 ZIP code, Wood County Hospital provides convenient local access to cancer services. However, for more specialized care, Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center and University of Toledo Medical Center, both located in Toledo, offer comprehensive cancer programs with advanced technologies and a broader range of treatment options.

Patients should research each hospital's specific offerings, consult with their primary care physicians, and consider their individual needs and preferences when making a decision. It is also important to verify the most up-to-date information on ER wait times, telehealth availability, and specific services directly with the hospitals. Remember, the best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care.