44654, Millersburg, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44654, Millersburg, Ohio is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44654

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Access to quality care, from initial screening to advanced treatment, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP Code 44654 (New Philadelphia, Ohio), offering insights into their lung cancer services, performance metrics, and accessibility to help patients make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The area around New Philadelphia is served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity to major metropolitan areas like Cleveland and Pittsburgh expands the options for specialized care. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both local resources and access to potentially superior treatment options.

**Key Hospitals and Their Offerings:**

**Cleveland Clinic Main Campus (Cleveland, OH):** Located approximately 75 miles northeast of New Philadelphia, the Cleveland Clinic is a nationally recognized leader in cancer care. Its Taussig Cancer Center is a comprehensive facility offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services. This includes advanced diagnostics like PET/CT scans, minimally invasive surgical techniques (including robotic-assisted surgery), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The Cleveland Clinic boasts a strong research program, providing access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments. The hospital consistently receives high ratings from U.S. News & World Report for cancer care. Its CMS star rating fluctuates, but it generally performs well. ER wait times can vary, but the clinic has implemented strategies to improve efficiency. Telehealth options are readily available for follow-up appointments and consultations, making it easier for patients to manage their care.

**University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center (Cleveland, OH):** Another Cleveland-based option, University Hospitals (UH) Seidman Cancer Center, is also a major player in lung cancer treatment. Similar to the Cleveland Clinic, UH offers a comprehensive approach, including surgery, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. They focus on a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various fields collaborating on patient care. UH often participates in clinical trials, providing access to novel therapies. Their CMS star rating is generally good. ER wait times can vary, so it's advisable to check current wait times online before visiting. Telehealth services are available, allowing for virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Located approximately 30 miles north of New Philadelphia, Aultman Hospital is a community hospital with a dedicated cancer center. Aultman offers a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. They provide surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy services. While not as large as the Cleveland-based institutions, Aultman offers a convenient option for residents of the 44654 area. They have a strong focus on patient support services, including support groups and educational resources. Their CMS star rating varies, but they consistently strive for quality improvement. ER wait times are typically shorter than those at larger hospitals. Telehealth options are expanding, offering more virtual care opportunities.

**Trinity Hospital Twin City (Dennison, OH):** Situated closer to New Philadelphia, Trinity Hospital Twin City is another local option. They offer diagnostic services, including imaging, and provide access to medical oncology services. While they may not have the same breadth of specialized services as the larger hospitals, they can provide initial diagnosis and supportive care. Patients may need to be referred to other facilities for advanced treatments like surgery or radiation therapy. Their CMS star rating is generally average. ER wait times are typically shorter than those at larger hospitals. Telehealth options may be limited.

**Akron General (Akron, OH):** Located approximately 60 miles north of New Philadelphia, Akron General is part of the Summa Health System. It provides comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer services. They offer surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. Akron General often participates in clinical trials. Their CMS star rating is generally good. ER wait times can vary. Telehealth services are available.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

**Specialized Expertise:** Lung cancer treatment is complex. Look for hospitals with dedicated pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists specializing in lung cancer. Experience matters. Inquire about the number of lung cancer cases treated annually.

**Multidisciplinary Approach:** Optimal care involves a team of specialists. Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary approach, with doctors from different specialties collaborating on your care plan. This includes pulmonologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care staff.

**Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies is crucial. This includes PET/CT scans, advanced radiation therapy techniques (like stereotactic body radiation therapy – SBRT), and minimally invasive surgical options.

**Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials provide access to the latest treatments. Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials and whether you might be eligible.

**Patient Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, nutritional counseling, and palliative care.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network. Understand your out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

**Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital, traffic, and parking. Factor in the time required for appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. Telehealth options can improve accessibility for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. While not the sole indicator of quality, CMS star ratings can provide a general overview of hospital performance.

**ER Wait Times:** Check current ER wait times online before visiting. These times can fluctuate.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, consultations, and medication management. Inquire about the hospital's telehealth capabilities.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer:**

**Screening Programs:** If you are at high risk for lung cancer (e.g., current or former smokers), inquire about the hospital's lung cancer screening program. Early detection through low-dose CT scans can significantly improve survival rates.

**Staging and Diagnosis:** The accuracy of staging is critical for treatment planning. Ensure the hospital has access to advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques, including bronchoscopy and biopsies.

**Treatment Options:** Understand the range of treatment options available, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Discuss these options with your oncologist and surgeon.

**Post-Treatment Care:** After treatment, you will need ongoing monitoring and follow-up care. Inquire about the hospital's survivorship programs and support services.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review provides a starting point for your research, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of hospitals near ZIP Code 44654. The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals offer comprehensive, specialized care, but require longer travel times. Aultman Hospital and Trinity Hospital Twin City provide more local options, while Akron General offers another regional option. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making your decision. Consult with your primary care physician and seek second opinions from specialists to ensure you receive the best possible care. Remember to ask questions, gather information, and advocate for your health.