44506, Youngstown, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44506, Youngstown, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Youngstown Area: A Scorecard for 44506

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision, especially when facing a difficult diagnosis. This review focuses on hospitals near Youngstown, Ohio's 44506 ZIP code, evaluating their capabilities based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a clear, fact-based overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Footprints**

The Youngstown area is primarily served by two major healthcare systems: Mercy Health and Steward Health. These systems encompass several hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in the realm of lung cancer treatment. Understanding the nuances of each facility is crucial for patients and their families.

**Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital**

Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a flagship facility within the Mercy Health system, is a significant player in the region. Unfortunately, as of late 2023, the hospital has a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's important to delve deeper into specific metrics related to lung cancer care. The hospital's ER wait times are a key consideration. Publicly available data often shows wait times that can fluctuate, so it's crucial to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party sites like Google. Longer wait times can be a concern for patients experiencing respiratory distress.

St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, which is the **Mercy Health – Youngstown Cancer Center**. This center provides comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The availability of a multidisciplinary team is a key indicator of quality care. This team typically includes pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care specialists. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer screening program, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is another positive sign. These programs often offer low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals.

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Mercy Health offers telehealth services, and patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments with their oncology team. Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for those living in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The hospital's website or patient portal will provide details on telehealth capabilities.

**Steward Health – Trumbull Regional Medical Center**

Trumbull Regional Medical Center, part of the Steward Health system, is another option for patients in the area. CMS data shows that this hospital has a **2-star rating**. This rating should prompt a closer look at specific areas of care. Similar to St. Elizabeth, it's important to research the hospital's ER wait times.

Trumbull Regional Medical Center also has a cancer center, offering various cancer treatments. The availability of a multidisciplinary team and a lung cancer screening program are crucial factors to investigate. Inquire about the center's accreditation status from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC), which indicates a commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care. The presence of clinical trials is another important consideration. Participation in clinical trials offers patients access to cutting-edge treatments and can improve outcomes.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly common. Patients should check with Trumbull Regional Medical Center to determine the availability of telehealth appointments with their oncology team.

**Additional Considerations: Specialty Centers and Resources**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the availability of specialized centers and resources can significantly impact the quality of lung cancer care.

**The Importance of Accreditation:**

Accreditation from reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Cancer (CoC) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), often indicates a commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care. These accreditations signify adherence to specific standards and guidelines.

**Radiation Oncology:**

The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is crucial for treating lung cancer. SBRT delivers high doses of radiation to the tumor with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

**Surgical Oncology:**

The presence of experienced thoracic surgeons who specialize in lung cancer surgery is essential. Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), can lead to faster recovery times and reduced pain.

**Medical Oncology:**

The medical oncology team should be up-to-date on the latest advances in chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Pulmonology:**

Pulmonologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing lung cancer. They perform bronchoscopies, which are essential for obtaining tissue samples for diagnosis.

**Supportive Care:**

Comprehensive cancer care includes supportive services, such as pain management, nutrition counseling, and psychological support. These services can help patients manage the side effects of treatment and improve their quality of life.

**Telehealth and Accessibility:**

Telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth appointments for follow-up visits, consultations, and support groups can significantly enhance the patient experience.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing respiratory distress. Longer wait times can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting outcomes. Patients should check current wait times on hospital websites or through third-party sites.

**Data Sources and Limitations:**

This review relies on publicly available data from sources such as CMS, hospital websites, and third-party healthcare rating sites. It's important to acknowledge the limitations of this data. CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, but they don't capture all aspects of lung cancer care. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Patient experiences can vary widely.

**Recommendations for Patients:**

1. **Research thoroughly:** Visit hospital websites, review patient testimonials, and gather information about each hospital's lung cancer program.
2. **Inquire about accreditation:** Verify the accreditation status of the cancer centers.
3. **Ask about the multidisciplinary team:** Confirm the presence of a dedicated team of specialists.
4. **Investigate screening programs:** Determine if the hospital offers a lung cancer screening program.
5. **Explore telehealth options:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments.
6. **Check ER wait times:** Monitor current wait times.
7. **Consult with your primary care physician:** Seek their recommendations and guidance.
8. **Consider second opinions:** Obtain a second opinion from another oncologist.
9. **Ask about clinical trials:** Inquire about the availability of clinical trials.
10. **Visit the facilities:** If possible, visit the hospitals to get a feel for the environment and speak with staff.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients in the 44506 ZIP code area, offering a fact-based overview of the available options. By conducting thorough research, asking the right questions, and considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and access the best possible care. The landscape is constantly evolving, so continuous monitoring of hospital performance and advancements in treatment is essential.