44676, Shreve, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44676, Shreve, Ohio is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44676

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Access to quality care, including timely diagnosis, advanced treatments, and supportive services, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near the 44676 ZIP code (Alliance, Ohio), evaluating their capabilities in lung cancer care. We’ll consider factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 44676 ZIP code is located in Stark County, Ohio, placing it within reasonable proximity to major healthcare systems in the region. The review will consider hospitals in Alliance, Canton, and surrounding areas, focusing on their capacity to treat lung cancer.

**Flagship Hospital Analysis:**

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Aultman Hospital, a major regional player, holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating indicates average performance, it's important to delve deeper into their lung cancer-specific capabilities. Aultman has a dedicated cancer center, the Aultman Cancer Center, which offers comprehensive services. They are accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a program of the American College of Surgeons, signifying a commitment to quality cancer care.

Aultman's website highlights its multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing collaboration between pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists. This collaborative model is crucial for effective lung cancer treatment. They offer diagnostic services, including advanced imaging like PET/CT scans, and a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

Regarding emergency room wait times, Aultman's data fluctuates. Recent reports suggest average wait times can range from 30 minutes to an hour, but these figures can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. This information is crucial for individuals experiencing symptoms that require immediate attention.

**Cleveland Clinic (Multiple Locations, including Akron & Main Campus):** The Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized healthcare system, is a significant presence in the region. While the main campus is located further away, the Clinic has a robust network of facilities, including locations in Akron that are accessible to residents near 44676. The Cleveland Clinic consistently earns high marks for its cancer care programs.

The Cleveland Clinic's main campus consistently receives high CMS star ratings. They have a dedicated Respiratory Institute and a comprehensive cancer center, the Taussig Cancer Center, offering cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. The Clinic's reputation for innovation in cancer care is well-established. Their lung cancer program is known for its multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the latest advancements in surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

Emergency room wait times at Cleveland Clinic facilities vary depending on the location. Patients should check the specific location's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Mercy Medical Center (Canton, OH):** Mercy Medical Center is another important healthcare provider in the Canton area. The hospital holds a 3-star CMS rating. Mercy has a cancer center that provides a range of services for patients with lung cancer. They offer diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services.

Mercy Medical Center's emergency room wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to provide timely care. It's recommended to check their website or contact them for the most current wait time information.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized centers and programs are crucial for lung cancer care.

**Thoracic Surgery:** The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is critical for surgical interventions. Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center both have thoracic surgery programs. The Cleveland Clinic's main campus and Akron locations boast highly regarded thoracic surgery departments, often specializing in minimally invasive techniques.

**Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality for lung cancer. Both Aultman and Mercy Medical Center have radiation oncology departments. The Cleveland Clinic's radiation oncology programs are known for advanced technologies and expertise.

**Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists are vital for administering chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. All the hospitals mentioned have medical oncology departments. The Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center is particularly renowned for its medical oncology expertise and access to clinical trials.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is the foundation of effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should offer a comprehensive range of diagnostic services.

**Imaging:** Advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans, PET/CT scans, and MRI, are essential for staging and monitoring lung cancer. All the hospitals reviewed offer these services.

**Bronchoscopy:** Bronchoscopy is a procedure used to visualize the airways and obtain tissue samples for biopsy. This is a critical diagnostic tool. All the hospitals should provide bronchoscopy services.

**Biopsy:** Tissue biopsies are necessary to confirm a lung cancer diagnosis and determine the specific type of cancer. Hospitals should have robust biopsy capabilities.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for cancer patients. It can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**Telehealth Availability:** The Cleveland Clinic has a well-established telehealth program. Aultman and Mercy Medical Center are also expanding their telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about telehealth options, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups.

**Clinical Trials:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer care. The Cleveland Clinic is particularly known for its clinical trial programs. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologist.

**Support Services:**

Comprehensive lung cancer care extends beyond medical treatments. Support services are crucial for patients and their families.

**Support Groups:** Hospitals should offer support groups, counseling services, and resources for patients and caregivers.

**Palliative Care:** Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Hospitals should have palliative care programs.

**Nutrition Counseling:** Proper nutrition is important for cancer patients. Hospitals should offer nutrition counseling services.

**Financial Counseling:** Cancer treatment can be expensive. Hospitals should provide financial counseling to help patients navigate the costs of care.

**Comparing the Options:**

The best choice for lung cancer care near 44676 depends on individual needs and preferences.

**For Comprehensive Care and Innovation:** The Cleveland Clinic, with its main campus and Akron locations, offers a high level of expertise, advanced treatments, and access to clinical trials. However, travel distance to the main campus should be considered.

**For Local Access and Established Services:** Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center provide convenient access to care in the Canton area. They offer comprehensive services and a multidisciplinary approach.

**Factors to Consider:**

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC).
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like location, convenience, and the overall environment of the hospital.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near the 44676 ZIP code offer a range of options for lung cancer care. The Cleveland Clinic, Aultman Hospital, and Mercy Medical Center all provide essential services. Patients should carefully evaluate their needs, research their options, and consult with their primary care physician to determine the best course of action. The information provided in this review is intended to be a starting point for this important decision.