44333, Akron, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44333, Akron, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Vicinity of 44333: A Detailed Hospital Review

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to quality healthcare, particularly specialized oncology services, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near the 44333 ZIP code, offering a detailed look at their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. This information aims to provide a comprehensive overview, empowering patients and their families to make informed decisions about their care.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Accessibility**

The 44333 ZIP code is primarily associated with Barberton, Ohio. This review will concentrate on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like accessibility and the availability of specialized services. This includes hospitals in Akron, Canton, and surrounding areas, acknowledging that the best choice often involves a balance between proximity and the quality of care offered.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a valuable, albeit imperfect, indicator of hospital quality. These ratings, based on a five-star system, consider various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Located in Akron, Summa Health System's Akron Campus is a major healthcare provider. It consistently receives a good CMS star rating. Summa has a dedicated cancer institute with a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from the expertise of oncologists, surgeons, pulmonologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Another significant player in the region, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, is also a major player in the region. It also has a cancer center and offers a comprehensive range of lung cancer services. Cleveland Clinic’s reputation for advanced cancer care extends to this facility, providing access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

**University Hospitals – Portage Medical Center (Ravenna):** While not directly in Akron, University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna offers a more local option for some residents of the 44333 area. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as the larger hospitals, it provides a convenient option for initial consultations and some treatment options.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor in Access**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly for patients experiencing cancer-related complications. Long wait times can exacerbate symptoms and delay necessary interventions. While specific wait times fluctuate, data from sources like Medicare.gov and hospital websites can provide insights.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Generally, Summa's Akron Campus has ER wait times that are competitive with other major hospitals in the area. It is advisable to check real-time data online or call ahead, as wait times can vary based on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Cleveland Clinic Akron General’s ER wait times are often comparable to Summa's. However, it's always recommended to verify current wait times before heading to the emergency room.

**University Hospitals – Portage Medical Center (Ravenna):** As a smaller facility, University Hospitals Portage Medical Center may have shorter ER wait times than the larger hospitals, though this can vary.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Specific Services**

Beyond general hospital services, the presence of dedicated cancer centers and specialized programs is a key indicator of quality lung cancer care.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Summa's Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials. Their multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive coordinated care tailored to their specific needs. They also offer support services like patient navigation, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Cleveland Clinic Akron General’s cancer center provides similar services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. They are known for their expertise in complex cancer cases and their commitment to research.

**University Hospitals – Portage Medical Center (Ravenna):** While Portage Medical Center may not have the same level of specialization as the larger hospitals, it often offers basic oncology services and may refer patients to the larger University Hospitals network for more specialized care.

**Specific Lung Cancer Treatment Modalities**

The availability of specific treatment modalities is a critical factor in assessing a hospital's capabilities.

**Surgery:** Both Summa and Cleveland Clinic Akron General have experienced surgical teams specializing in thoracic surgery, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). This approach can lead to faster recovery times and reduced pain.

**Radiation Therapy:** Both hospitals offer advanced radiation therapy options, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). These techniques allow for precise targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

**Chemotherapy:** Both Summa and Cleveland Clinic Akron General provide chemotherapy services, including access to the latest chemotherapy regimens and supportive care to manage side effects.

**Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy:** Both hospitals offer access to targeted therapies and immunotherapies, which are newer treatment approaches that are revolutionizing lung cancer care. These therapies are often used in combination with other treatments.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage, as it allows patients to benefit from the latest research and potentially access innovative treatments. Both Summa and Cleveland Clinic Akron General actively participate in clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. It can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Summa Health System offers telehealth services for various aspects of cancer care, including consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care. They may also utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient symptoms and vital signs.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Cleveland Clinic Akron General also provides telehealth options, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. They are committed to leveraging technology to improve patient access and convenience.

**University Hospitals – Portage Medical Center (Ravenna):** University Hospitals Portage Medical Center may offer telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Beyond medical treatments, the quality of patient experience and the availability of support services are critical.

**Patient Navigation:** Both Summa and Cleveland Clinic Akron General offer patient navigation services, which can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access support resources.

**Support Groups:** Both hospitals provide support groups for patients and their families, offering a valuable opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with lung cancer.

**Palliative Care:** Palliative care services are essential for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Both Summa and Cleveland Clinic Akron General offer palliative care programs.

**Financial Assistance:** Both hospitals have resources to assist patients with financial challenges, including information about insurance coverage, financial aid programs, and payment options.

**Choosing the Right Hospital: A Personalized Decision**

The best hospital for lung cancer care near the 44333 ZIP code depends on individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include:

* **Stage and Type of Lung Cancer:** The complexity of the cancer will influence the need for specialized services.
* **Treatment Preferences:** Patient preferences regarding treatment options, such as surgery or radiation therapy, should be considered.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of access are important factors, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The hospital's network and the patient's insurance coverage must align.
* **Patient Experience:** The patient's comfort level with the hospital's staff and the overall environment is crucial.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Decisions**

This review provides a detailed overview of lung cancer care options near the 44333 ZIP code. Summa Health System – Akron Campus and Cleveland Clinic Akron General stand out as major providers with comprehensive services and access to advanced treatments. University Hospitals – Portage Medical Center offers a more local option. By carefully considering the information presented, patients and their families can make informed decisions and choose the best hospital to meet their specific needs. It is crucial to consult with a primary care physician and/or oncologist to discuss individual circumstances and develop a personalized treatment plan. Remember to verify all information, including ER wait times and service availability, directly with the hospitals before making any decisions.