44671, Sandyville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44671, Sandyville, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44671

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the 44671 ZIP code (Massillon, Ohio) to provide a factual overview of their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings to help patients make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

The immediate vicinity of 44671 offers several hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. A primary consideration is proximity, especially during initial diagnosis and treatment. This review will focus on the most relevant options for residents of the area.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH): A Flagship Institution**

Aultman Hospital, located in Canton, Ohio, is a major regional healthcare provider. It is a flagship hospital and a significant presence in the area. Aultman is a large, full-service hospital with a comprehensive cancer program.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:** Aultman Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality and performance based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a hospital that generally meets quality standards.

**Cancer Services:** Aultman's Cancer Center offers a range of services for lung cancer patients. They provide diagnostic imaging, including CT scans and PET scans, crucial for detecting and staging lung cancer. They also offer medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services.

**Specialized Centers:** Aultman has a dedicated cancer center that coordinates care across various specialties. This integrated approach is beneficial for lung cancer patients, who often require multidisciplinary treatment plans.

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Aultman can vary. Publicly available data often reflects average wait times, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. It's advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Aultman has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly in response to the growing need for remote care. Telehealth can be valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital (Canton, OH): A Regional Presence**

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, also located in Canton, is another significant hospital in the region. It is part of the larger Cleveland Clinic health system, known for its specialized care.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:** CMS data reflects a 3-star rating for Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital. This rating provides a general overview of the hospital's performance.

**Cancer Services:** Mercy Hospital provides cancer care, including diagnostic services, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. As part of the Cleveland Clinic system, it can potentially leverage the expertise and resources of the larger network.

**Specialized Centers:** Mercy Hospital has a cancer center that coordinates care for cancer patients. The hospital’s connection to the Cleveland Clinic system could allow for access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Mercy Hospital can fluctuate. It's important to check current wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Mercy Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for patients, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Summa Health System – Barberton Hospital (Barberton, OH): Local Options**

Summa Health System – Barberton Hospital is another option for residents near 44671. It is a community hospital within the larger Summa Health System.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:** Summa Health System – Barberton Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Cancer Services:** Barberton Hospital offers cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

**Specialized Centers:** Barberton Hospital has a cancer program that provides care for patients.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Barberton Hospital can vary. It's advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Barberton Hospital has telehealth capabilities. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Outpatient and Specialist Considerations**

Beyond the main hospitals, patients may need to consider outpatient facilities and specialists.

**Oncologists and Pulmonologists:** The availability of experienced oncologists and pulmonologists is crucial. Researching the qualifications and experience of physicians is essential. Checking physician profiles on hospital websites or through professional organizations like the American Medical Association (AMA) can provide valuable information.

**Radiation Oncology Centers:** Access to radiation oncology services is vital. These centers provide radiation therapy, a common treatment for lung cancer.

**Diagnostic Imaging Centers:** Access to advanced imaging, such as PET/CT scans, is critical for diagnosis and staging.

**Treatment Modalities and Clinical Trials**

The specific treatment options offered by each hospital are crucial.

**Surgical Oncology:** The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is essential for patients who require surgery.

**Medical Oncology:** The availability of medical oncologists who specialize in lung cancer is important. They administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Radiation Oncology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is a plus.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about clinical trial availability at each hospital.

**Telehealth: A Growing Resource**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care.

**Benefits of Telehealth:** Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring. It can also provide access to specialists and support groups.

**Telehealth Availability:** Confirm the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients with each hospital.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Navigating insurance coverage and financial aspects of care is crucial.

**Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.

**Financial Assistance:** Inquire about financial assistance programs offered by the hospital.

**Patient Experience and Support**

Patient experience and support services are essential for managing lung cancer.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Research patient satisfaction scores and read reviews.

**Support Services:** Inquire about support services, such as support groups, counseling, and patient navigators.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision.

**Research and Consultation:** Thoroughly research the hospitals in your area. Consult with your primary care physician and seek recommendations from other healthcare professionals.

**Ask Questions:** Prepare a list of questions to ask each hospital, including questions about their lung cancer program, treatment options, and support services.

**Consider Your Needs:** Consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision.

**Ongoing Evaluation:** Continuously evaluate your care and communicate with your healthcare team.

**Conclusion**

The hospitals near 44671 offer a range of options for lung cancer care. Aultman Hospital and Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital are the flagship institutions in the immediate area. Summa Health System – Barberton Hospital is another community option. By considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions about their care and find the best possible treatment options. Remember to consult with your healthcare team and conduct thorough research to ensure you receive the best possible care.