44306, Akron, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44306, Akron, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Akron, OH (44306): A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized care and resources, is critical. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near the 44306 ZIP code (Akron, Ohio), focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer treatment. We'll examine factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to help you make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Akron's Healthcare Ecosystem**

Akron, Ohio, is home to a robust healthcare network, with several major hospitals vying for excellence in cancer care. Proximity to Cleveland, a regional medical hub, also expands treatment options. This review will focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of the 44306 ZIP code, including Akron General, Summa Health System, and access to Cleveland Clinic facilities.

**Akron General Hospital (Cleveland Clinic Akron General)**

Akron General, now part of the Cleveland Clinic system, is a prominent player in the region. It's a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services, including a dedicated cancer center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Akron General currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on measures like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** Akron General's Taussig Cancer Center provides specialized lung cancer care. They offer multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care staff.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data from CMS indicates that Akron General's ER wait times are generally within the average range for hospitals of its size. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Checking real-time wait times on the hospital's website or a third-party site like Google Maps is advisable.
* **Telehealth:** Akron General has expanded its telehealth offerings, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. They offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and some aspects of supportive care. This can be a convenient option for patients, reducing travel time and improving access to care.
* **Lung Cancer Screening:** Akron General actively promotes lung cancer screening for eligible individuals (those with a history of smoking and specific age criteria). They utilize low-dose CT scans to detect lung nodules early, when treatment is often more effective.
* **Clinical Trials:** As part of the Cleveland Clinic network, Akron General participates in numerous clinical trials for lung cancer. These trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide insights into patient satisfaction. While experiences vary, it's important to read a range of reviews to gauge overall perceptions of care.

**Summa Health System**

Summa Health System is another major healthcare provider in Akron, with a strong presence in cancer care. Their focus is on providing comprehensive services to the community.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Summa Health System's flagship hospital, Summa Health Akron Campus, also holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** Summa Health's Cancer Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. They have dedicated teams of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pulmonologists.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Summa Health Akron Campus are generally comparable to those at Akron General. Checking real-time wait times is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** Summa Health has increased its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for various services, including oncology follow-up visits and supportive care.
* **Lung Cancer Screening:** Summa Health actively promotes lung cancer screening for eligible individuals, utilizing low-dose CT scans.
* **Clinical Trials:** Summa Health participates in clinical trials for lung cancer, providing patients with access to innovative therapies.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide insights into patient satisfaction.

**Cleveland Clinic (Proximity and Access)**

While not directly in Akron, the Cleveland Clinic is a major regional resource, and its facilities are accessible to residents of the 44306 ZIP code. The Cleveland Clinic's main campus in Cleveland offers highly specialized lung cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The Cleveland Clinic main campus consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving a 5-star rating. This reflects exceptional quality and patient outcomes.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** The Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center is renowned for its lung cancer expertise. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at the Cleveland Clinic's main campus can vary. It's advisable to check real-time wait times.
* **Telehealth:** The Cleveland Clinic has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.
* **Lung Cancer Screening:** The Cleveland Clinic offers lung cancer screening programs, including low-dose CT scans.
* **Clinical Trials:** The Cleveland Clinic is a leader in lung cancer research and offers a wide array of clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest treatments.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews consistently reflect high levels of satisfaction with the care provided at the Cleveland Clinic.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors are important when choosing a lung cancer treatment center:

* **Specialty Centers:** Evaluate the availability of specialized centers within each hospital, such as those focused on thoracic surgery, radiation oncology, and medical oncology.
* **Technology:** Assess the hospital's access to advanced technologies, such as robotic surgery, advanced imaging techniques (PET/CT scans), and targeted therapies.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of supportive care services, such as pain management, palliative care, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists accept your insurance plan.
* **Physician Credentials:** Research the credentials and experience of the physicians, including their board certifications and any specialized training in lung cancer.
* **Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another oncologist, especially if you have any doubts or concerns about your treatment plan.

**Comparing the Options**

Akron General and Summa Health offer comprehensive lung cancer care within the city. Both have 3-star CMS ratings, indicating a baseline level of quality. The Cleveland Clinic, while requiring travel, offers a higher-rated facility with a broader range of specialized services and access to cutting-edge research.

**ER Wait Times: A Caveat**

ER wait times are a dynamic metric. They can fluctuate significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Relying solely on averages can be misleading. Always check real-time wait times before heading to the ER.

**Telehealth: A Growing Advantage**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and supportive care. Both Akron General and Summa Health have expanded their telehealth offerings. The Cleveland Clinic also offers a robust telehealth program.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovation**

Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage, offering patients the opportunity to receive innovative treatments. All three hospital systems – Akron General (Cleveland Clinic), Summa Health, and the Cleveland Clinic – participate in lung cancer clinical trials.

**Making Your Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the severity of your diagnosis. Weigh the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and access to clinical trials. Consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to oncologists specializing in lung cancer. Don't hesitate to ask questions and gather as much information as possible before making your final decision. Remember, early detection and prompt, effective treatment are crucial in the fight against lung cancer.