44638, Lakeville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44638, Lakeville, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Vicinity of Minerva, Ohio (44638): A Deep Dive

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting prospect, and choosing the right hospital is paramount. For residents near Minerva, Ohio (ZIP code 44638), access to quality care involves considering several factors, including hospital performance, specialized services, and accessibility. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities and other relevant metrics.

**The Landscape of Care: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Minerva offers limited direct hospital options. Residents typically look towards larger regional centers for comprehensive cancer care. This analysis will focus on hospitals within a roughly 50-mile radius, encompassing Canton, Akron, and Youngstown, Ohio, areas that offer a wider range of specialized services.

**A Beacon of Excellence: Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH)**

Aultman Hospital in Canton, approximately 20 miles from Minerva, stands out as a prominent healthcare provider. Aultman is a flagship hospital in the region, and it is a significant player in cancer care. Unfortunately, Aultman Hospital does not have a CMS Star Rating currently available. However, Aultman is a member of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, which means they have a dedicated cancer program. The hospital's Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services.

Aultman's lung cancer program provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options. The hospital offers advanced imaging technologies, including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy, for accurate diagnosis and staging. Surgical options include minimally invasive techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times. Aultman also provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services, with a focus on personalized treatment plans tailored to the individual patient. Aultman also provides clinical trials.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** Aultman Hospital's ER wait times fluctuate. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources before seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth:** Aultman has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. This can be a significant benefit for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Akron General Hospital (Akron, OH): A Regional Hub**

Akron General Hospital, part of the Cleveland Clinic Health System, is another major player in the region, located approximately 40 miles from Minerva. Akron General is known for its comprehensive cancer services.

Akron General does not have a current CMS Star Rating. However, Akron General's Cancer Center offers a wide array of specialized services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. The hospital's lung cancer program utilizes advanced diagnostic tools and offers a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Akron General also participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** Like Aultman, ER wait times at Akron General can vary. Checking online resources for real-time updates is recommended.

**Telehealth:** Akron General has embraced telehealth, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be especially helpful for patients managing chronic conditions or needing regular check-ins.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Youngstown, OH): Serving the Eastern Edge**

St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, part of the Mercy Health system, is located approximately 45 miles from Minerva. This hospital serves as a regional center for healthcare.

St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital does not have a current CMS Star Rating. St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program. The hospital provides a range of services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. The lung cancer program offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital are subject to change. Checking online resources for real-time updates is recommended.

**Telehealth:** St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Support Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialty centers and support services can be crucial for lung cancer patients. These include:

* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Hospitals with dedicated radiation oncology departments offer specialized radiation therapy treatments, including external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.
* **Pulmonary Specialists:** Access to experienced pulmonologists is essential for the diagnosis, staging, and management of lung cancer.
* **Support Groups and Counseling:** Cancer support groups and counseling services provide emotional support and guidance for patients and their families.
* **Palliative Care:** Palliative care teams focus on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.

**The Importance of CMS Star Ratings (and Their Limitations)**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings provide a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a higher star rating generally indicates better performance, it's essential to consider the limitations. The ratings may not fully reflect the nuances of specialized cancer care, and they may not be available for all hospitals.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications related to lung cancer. Hospitals strive to minimize wait times, but they can fluctuate based on patient volume and staffing levels. Checking real-time wait times online can help patients make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. Virtual consultations and follow-up appointments can reduce the need for travel and provide convenient access to care. Hospitals are expanding their telehealth offerings, providing patients with more options for remote monitoring and support.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovation**

Participation in clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Hospitals with active research programs often offer clinical trials for lung cancer, providing patients with the opportunity to benefit from the latest advancements in cancer care.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Factors to consider include:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and ease of travel.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of specialized services, such as radiation oncology, pulmonary specialists, and supportive care.
* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team, including oncologists, surgeons, and pulmonologists.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and feedback on the hospital's care and services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** The hospital's acceptance of your insurance plan.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Care**

For residents near Minerva, Ohio (44638), access to quality lung cancer care requires careful consideration of the available options. Aultman Hospital, Akron General Hospital, and St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital offer comprehensive cancer programs and specialized services. While CMS Star Ratings provide a useful benchmark, it's essential to evaluate each hospital's specific capabilities, physician expertise, and patient experience. By carefully weighing these factors, patients can make informed decisions and navigate the path to the best possible care.