44667, Orrville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44667, Orrville, Ohio is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Vicinity of Salem, Ohio (ZIP Code 44667): A Comprehensive Review

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Finding the right medical care, close to home, is paramount. This review examines the hospitals within a reasonable radius of Salem, Ohio (ZIP code 44667), assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. We'll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, telehealth options, and more, providing a fact-rich overview to aid in your decision-making process.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Accessibility**

Salem, Ohio, sits in a region with a mix of community hospitals and larger, regional medical centers. Access to specialized lung cancer care often necessitates travel, but several options are available within a drivable distance. This review focuses on hospitals within a 60-mile radius, acknowledging that patient needs and preferences vary.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance:**

One of the most significant indicators of hospital quality is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, provide a general overview of a hospital's performance based on various quality measures. However, it's important to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Located approximately 30 miles from Salem, Aultman Hospital is a prominent regional medical center. Aultman typically holds a respectable CMS star rating, although the specific rating can fluctuate. Aultman is a major provider in the region, and is known for its robust cancer services. Aultman has a comprehensive cancer center, which often includes specialized lung cancer treatment programs. They have a dedicated oncology unit and employ a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Aultman's ER wait times vary, but it's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room.

**Cleveland Clinic (Various Locations):** The Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized healthcare system, has multiple locations within the review radius. While the main campus in Cleveland is further away (approximately 70 miles), some Cleveland Clinic facilities are closer. The Cleveland Clinic consistently receives high CMS star ratings and is renowned for its advanced cancer care. Their Taussig Cancer Center is a world-class facility offering cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a comprehensive approach to lung cancer. The Cleveland Clinic has a significant presence in the area, with locations in many areas, and the Cleveland Clinic is a major provider in the region. The Cleveland Clinic often has shorter ER wait times than other hospitals, but it's always recommended to check real-time data.

**University Hospitals (Various Locations):** Similar to the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals (UH) is another major healthcare system with several locations within the review area. UH facilities generally have good CMS star ratings, reflecting their commitment to quality care. UH Seidman Cancer Center is a well-regarded cancer center, offering a wide range of lung cancer treatment options. UH facilities are known for their research and innovation in cancer care. ER wait times at UH hospitals vary depending on the location and time of day.

**Community Hospitals and Their Role:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several community hospitals play a crucial role in providing local healthcare services. These hospitals often offer essential services, including initial diagnostic testing and supportive care.

**Salem Regional Medical Center (Salem, OH):** As the closest hospital to ZIP code 44667, Salem Regional Medical Center is a key provider for the local community. While it may not have the same level of specialized lung cancer services as larger regional centers, it provides crucial initial care, including diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans), and may offer some chemotherapy services. They can also facilitate referrals to specialists at larger hospitals. ER wait times at Salem Regional Medical Center can vary; it's recommended to check current wait times before visiting.

**Alliance Community Hospital (Alliance, OH):** Located approximately 20 miles from Salem, Alliance Community Hospital is another local option. This hospital provides a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and some cancer care support. They can be a good option for initial assessments and referrals to specialists. ER wait times at Alliance Community Hospital should be checked before a visit.

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Youngstown, OH):** Situated about 35 miles from Salem, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is a regional medical center with a cancer center. They offer a range of cancer services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and often have pulmonologists and oncologists on staff. ER wait times at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital can fluctuate.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

For advanced lung cancer care, specialized centers and programs are essential. These centers often have dedicated teams of experts, access to cutting-edge technology, and participation in clinical trials.

* **Aultman Hospital's Cancer Center:** Aultman's cancer center provides comprehensive lung cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services.
* **Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center:** The Taussig Cancer Center is a leading center for lung cancer treatment, offering advanced therapies, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach.
* **University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center:** The Seidman Cancer Center provides a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like lung cancer. Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

* **Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online support groups.
* **University Hospitals:** UH offers telehealth services for various specialties, including oncology, providing convenient access to care.
* **Aultman Hospital:** Aultman is expanding its telehealth capabilities to provide virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

Emergency room wait times can significantly impact the patient experience. It's crucial to check current wait times before visiting any ER. Websites like Google and individual hospital websites often provide real-time wait time information.

**Factors Influencing Hospital Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care involves considering several factors:

* **Stage of Cancer:** Early-stage lung cancer may be treated at a community hospital with surgical capabilities. Advanced stages often require specialized centers.
* **Treatment Preferences:** Patients should discuss their treatment preferences with their doctors, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage for specific hospitals and specialists.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital, ease of access, and availability of transportation.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals with comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.

**Conclusion:**

The region near Salem, Ohio (ZIP code 44667) offers a range of options for lung cancer care. While Salem Regional Medical Center provides local services, the larger regional hospitals like Aultman, the Cleveland Clinic, and University Hospitals offer more specialized care. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and treatment preferences when making their decision. Thorough research, consultation with medical professionals, and a proactive approach to care are essential in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. This review provides a foundation for your research; consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.