44690, Winesburg, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44690, Winesburg, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Wooster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44690)

The diagnosis of lung cancer is a life-altering event, demanding access to the best possible medical care. For residents of Wooster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44690), navigating the healthcare landscape to find optimal treatment options is crucial. This review examines the hospitals closest to this area, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations**

Wooster, Ohio, is primarily served by hospitals in the surrounding counties. The most immediate options are generally within a 30- to 60-minute drive. The quality of care offered, the availability of specialized services, and the patient’s overall experience are paramount. This review considers these factors to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Aultman Hospital, Canton, Ohio**

Approximately 30 miles east of Wooster, Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a significant healthcare provider for the region. Aultman holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While not a top-tier rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

Aultman has a dedicated cancer center, the Aultman Cancer Center, offering a range of services. They provide medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services. They also have a lung cancer screening program, which is vital for early detection. The hospital’s website indicates a commitment to multidisciplinary care, implying that specialists from various fields collaborate on patient cases.

ER wait times at Aultman can fluctuate, but data suggests average wait times are often in line with or slightly better than national averages. This is an important factor, particularly in emergency situations that might arise during lung cancer treatment. Telehealth services are available, offering patients the convenience of virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The hospital’s telehealth platform provides remote access to specialists, which can be beneficial for patients living in more rural areas.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, Ohio**

Located roughly 45 miles northeast of Wooster, Cleveland Clinic Akron General is another major healthcare option. The hospital is part of the larger Cleveland Clinic health system, known for its specialized centers and research. While Akron General is not a flagship Cleveland Clinic hospital, it benefits from the system's resources and expertise. Akron General has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Aultman.

The hospital's cancer services are integrated with the Cleveland Clinic system, giving patients access to a wider network of specialists. This includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Akron General offers advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, essential for staging and monitoring lung cancer.

ER wait times at Akron General are generally competitive, often averaging under an hour. The hospital’s telehealth offerings are extensive, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals. This is particularly helpful for patients managing chronic conditions like lung cancer.

**University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center, Ashland, Ohio**

Approximately 30 miles north of Wooster, University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, Ohio, is another option. This hospital is part of the University Hospitals system, a major healthcare provider in Northeast Ohio. Samaritan Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

The hospital offers cancer services, including medical oncology and radiation oncology. It is important to note that while Samaritan Medical Center is part of the University Hospitals system, it may not have the same level of specialization as the flagship hospitals within the system.

ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center are often relatively short, making it a convenient option for urgent care needs. Telehealth services are available, providing virtual access to specialists and facilitating remote monitoring of patient conditions.

**Summa Health System, Akron, Ohio**

Summa Health System, with its main hospital in Akron, offers another option for patients near Wooster. While not directly in Wooster, the system is accessible within a reasonable driving distance. Summa's CMS star rating varies across its facilities; it's important to check the specific rating for the hospital a patient might utilize.

Summa Health has a comprehensive cancer center, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They also offer lung cancer screening programs and participate in clinical trials. The system emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving specialists from various fields to create individualized treatment plans.

ER wait times at Summa Health facilities can vary, but it's advisable to check current wait times before visiting. The system provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, which can enhance access to care and improve patient convenience.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Treatment Options**

The availability of specialized centers is crucial for lung cancer patients. These centers often have experienced teams of oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. They may also offer access to cutting-edge treatments, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.

The Cleveland Clinic, with its main campus in Cleveland (approximately 75 miles northeast of Wooster), is a world-renowned center for cancer care. While further away, patients may choose to travel to Cleveland for specialized treatment. The Cleveland Clinic has a dedicated Lung Cancer Program, offering comprehensive services, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, and access to clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a critical consideration, especially for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Prolonged wait times can exacerbate symptoms, cause anxiety, and delay necessary medical interventions. It is essential to check current wait times before visiting an ER, using online resources or calling the hospital directly.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. These services provide virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals. They can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate timely follow-up appointments.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Beyond medical treatment, the patient experience is paramount. This includes the quality of communication with healthcare providers, the availability of support services, and the overall comfort of the hospital environment. Look for hospitals that offer patient navigators, support groups, and resources for managing the emotional and practical challenges of lung cancer.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials can offer patients access to the latest treatments and therapies. Research hospitals, such as the Cleveland Clinic, are more likely to offer clinical trials. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologists.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Patients should consider factors such as:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the sole indicator of quality, CMS ratings provide a general overview of hospital performance.
* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized cancer centers with experienced teams.
* **Access to Advanced Treatments:** The availability of targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average wait times for emergency care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** The availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Patient Experience:** The quality of communication, support services, and overall comfort.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Wooster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44690), several hospitals offer lung cancer care options. Aultman Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center, and Summa Health System are all within a reasonable driving distance. The Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, while further away, offers a world-renowned cancer center. Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering the factors discussed in this review, to make an informed decision about their care. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to oncologists and specialists is also crucial. The best choice will depend on the individual patient's needs, preferences, and the specific stage and type of lung cancer.