44644, Malvern, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44644, Malvern, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Massillon, Ohio: A Scorecard for Patients

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents near Massillon, Ohio (ZIP code 44644), several options are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities to help patients make informed choices.

**The Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The immediate area surrounding Massillon offers a mix of community hospitals and larger, regional medical centers. Proximity to larger cities like Canton and Akron expands the available choices, providing access to more specialized care. Understanding the strengths of each institution is paramount in navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

**Aultman Hospital: A Canton Cornerstone**

Aultman Hospital, located in Canton (approximately 15 minutes from Massillon), is a major player in the region. It boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a good overall quality of care. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Aultman's cancer center is a significant draw, offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Aultman's emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, patients should expect wait times comparable to other regional hospitals, potentially ranging from under an hour to several hours, depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's always wise to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER.

Aultman's lung cancer program features a dedicated team of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital also participates in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments. Telehealth services are increasingly integrated into Aultman's care model, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for patients living further from the hospital. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits for oncology patients, are typically available through the hospital's patient portal or by contacting the oncology department directly.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General: Expanding Options**

While not directly in Massillon, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, about a 30-minute drive, offers another viable option. Akron General is part of the prestigious Cleveland Clinic health system, known for its advanced medical expertise. While it may not have the same CMS star rating as Aultman, its affiliation with a renowned institution provides access to specialized resources and potentially more complex treatment options.

Akron General's emergency room wait times are comparable to other hospitals in the area, and can be checked online. The hospital's cancer center offers a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care, with a team of specialists experienced in treating various stages of the disease. Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage, as is the potential for collaboration with specialists at the main Cleveland Clinic campus. Telehealth services are also available, expanding access to care and facilitating remote monitoring of patients. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits, are available through the hospital's patient portal.

**Mercy Medical Center: Canton's Other Major Player**

Mercy Medical Center, also located in Canton, provides another option for lung cancer care. Mercy's CMS star rating and ER wait times are comparable to those of Aultman. Mercy's cancer center offers a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Mercy's lung cancer program features a multidisciplinary team of specialists, and like Aultman, it often participates in clinical trials. The hospital is equipped with advanced technology for diagnosis and treatment. Telehealth services are also available, offering virtual consultations and follow-up care. The hospital's website or patient portal will provide the most up-to-date information on telehealth statistics.

**Summa Health System: Regional Reach**

Summa Health System, with its flagship hospital in Akron (approximately 30 minutes from Massillon), provides another significant option. Summa's CMS star rating and ER wait times are similar to those of the other hospitals in the area. Summa's cancer center offers a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Summa's lung cancer program features a multidisciplinary team of specialists, and like Aultman, it often participates in clinical trials. The hospital is equipped with advanced technology for diagnosis and treatment. Telehealth services are also available, offering virtual consultations and follow-up care. The hospital's website or patient portal will provide the most up-to-date information on telehealth statistics.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Beyond the major hospitals, patients should consider specialized centers that may offer unique expertise. While not always located directly in Massillon, these centers can be accessed through referral or consultation.

* **Thoracic Surgery Expertise:** Look for hospitals with board-certified thoracic surgeons, as they are essential for surgical interventions.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Ensure the hospital or affiliated center has advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which can be highly effective for lung cancer.
* **Medical Oncology Expertise:** Investigate the experience and expertise of the medical oncologists, particularly regarding targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
* **Pulmonary Specialists:** The expertise of pulmonologists is crucial for diagnosis, staging, and ongoing management of lung cancer.

**Telehealth's Role in Lung Cancer Care**

Telehealth is rapidly changing the landscape of healthcare, and lung cancer care is no exception. Telehealth offers numerous benefits:

* **Convenience:** Virtual consultations eliminate the need for travel, saving time and reducing the burden on patients.
* **Access to Specialists:** Telehealth can connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Telehealth allows for remote monitoring of patients' vital signs and symptoms, enabling early intervention.
* **Follow-up Care:** Telehealth is particularly useful for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care.

When evaluating hospitals, inquire about their telehealth capabilities, including:

* **Availability of virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists.**
* **Availability of remote monitoring programs.**
* **Ease of use of the telehealth platform.**
* **Data security and privacy measures.**

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant consideration, especially when dealing with symptoms related to lung cancer. Patients experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms need prompt medical attention.

* **Check Real-Time Data:** Most hospitals provide real-time ER wait time information on their websites or through mobile apps.
* **Consider Urgent Care Centers:** For less urgent symptoms, urgent care centers may offer shorter wait times.
* **Call Ahead:** Before going to the ER, call the hospital to inquire about current wait times.

**Navigating the System: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration. Patients should:

* **Research Hospitals:** Review CMS star ratings, read patient reviews, and gather information about the hospital's lung cancer program.
* **Consider Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Assess Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a comprehensive range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Evaluate Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the availability and convenience of telehealth services.
* **Factor in ER Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times, especially if experiencing concerning symptoms.
* **Seek Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek second opinions from other specialists.
* **Discuss with Your Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and referrals.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

The "best" hospital for lung cancer treatment is ultimately the one that best meets the individual patient's needs. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, residents near Massillon, Ohio (ZIP code 44644), can make an informed decision and access the best possible care for their specific situation. This review is a starting point, and patients should conduct their own research and consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate course of action. The journey through lung cancer treatment is complex, and having access to the right resources and support is crucial for a positive outcome.