44709, Canton, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44709, Canton, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Canton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44709): A Comprehensive Review

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, especially when facing a diagnosis. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Canton, Ohio (ZIP code 44709), providing a fact-rich overview of their lung cancer services, performance metrics, and accessibility. The information presented aims to assist patients and their families in making informed choices.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The immediate vicinity of Canton, Ohio, offers a concentrated area of healthcare providers. Several hospitals stand out as potential options for lung cancer care, including those in Canton itself and nearby cities like Akron. Proximity is a significant factor, as frequent appointments, treatments, and potential hospital stays can be demanding.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH): A Local Anchor**

Aultman Hospital, located directly in Canton, is a major player in the local healthcare landscape. It's a comprehensive facility with a dedicated cancer center, the Aultman Cancer Center. This center provides a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Aultman's commitment to cancer care is evident in its investment in advanced technologies and its focus on patient-centered care.

Aultman Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it signifies a facility that meets certain standards of quality and safety. CMS ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

ER wait times at Aultman Hospital fluctuate, but data indicates an average wait time that is often in line with or slightly above the national average. This is a crucial consideration, especially in emergency situations related to lung cancer complications. Telehealth services are available, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living outside of the immediate Canton area.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General (Akron, OH): A Regional Powerhouse**

Located approximately 30 miles north of Canton in Akron, Cleveland Clinic Akron General is a significant regional hospital. It's part of the larger Cleveland Clinic health system, renowned for its specialized care and research. Akron General offers a comprehensive lung cancer program, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital benefits from the expertise and resources of the Cleveland Clinic network.

Cleveland Clinic Akron General has a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher level of performance than Aultman Hospital. The Cleveland Clinic system is known for its commitment to research and innovation, which often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

ER wait times at Akron General can vary, but the hospital generally strives to maintain efficient emergency services. Telehealth capabilities are robust, providing extensive options for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education. The hospital's connection to the larger Cleveland Clinic system offers access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus (Akron, OH): Another Akron Option**

Also located in Akron, Summa Health System – Akron Campus is another major healthcare provider in the region. Summa Health offers a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer treatment. The hospital provides a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

Summa Health System – Akron Campus has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Aultman Hospital. The hospital is committed to providing quality care to its patients and is focused on patient-centered services.

ER wait times at Summa Health System – Akron Campus are generally comparable to other hospitals in the area. Telehealth services are available, offering convenient access to care for patients.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond general hospital services, consider the availability of specialized lung cancer centers or programs. These centers often bring together a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care staff.

**Aultman Cancer Center:** Aultman's dedicated cancer center offers a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. The center provides access to advanced technologies and supportive services, such as patient navigation and support groups.

**Cleveland Clinic's Lung Cancer Program:** The Cleveland Clinic system is known for its expertise in lung cancer treatment. The Cleveland Clinic offers a wide range of advanced treatments, including minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The system's research focus provides access to clinical trials and innovative therapies.

**Summa Health's Cancer Program:** Summa Health's cancer program provides comprehensive care, including access to various treatment options and supportive services.

**Surgical Options and Considerations:**

Surgical intervention is a critical component of lung cancer treatment for many patients. The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons and advanced surgical techniques is a key factor.

**Aultman Hospital:** Offers surgical options for lung cancer, including lobectomy and pneumonectomy.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Provides access to a wide range of surgical options, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Offers surgical options for lung cancer treatment.

**Radiation Oncology Capabilities:**

Radiation therapy is another vital treatment modality for lung cancer. Access to advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is important.

**Aultman Hospital:** Offers radiation therapy services.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Provides access to advanced radiation therapy technologies.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Offers radiation therapy services.

**Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies:**

Medical oncology plays a crucial role in lung cancer treatment, with chemotherapy and targeted therapies being common treatment options. The availability of experienced medical oncologists and access to the latest therapies are essential.

**Aultman Hospital:** Provides chemotherapy and access to targeted therapies.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Offers chemotherapy and access to advanced targeted therapies and immunotherapy.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Provides chemotherapy and access to targeted therapies.

**Telehealth and Accessibility:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for patients facing mobility challenges or those living in rural areas.

**Aultman Hospital:** Offers telehealth services for consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Provides extensive telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Offers telehealth services.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration:**

ER wait times are a practical consideration, especially for patients experiencing complications from lung cancer or requiring immediate medical attention.

**Aultman Hospital:** ER wait times are often in line with or slightly above the national average.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** ER wait times can vary, but the hospital generally strives for efficient emergency services.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** ER wait times are generally comparable to other hospitals in the area.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience is a critical factor in overall care. Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care.

**Aultman Hospital:** Offers patient navigation and support services.

**Cleveland Clinic Akron General:** Provides comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care.

**Summa Health System – Akron Campus:** Offers patient navigation and support services.

**Financial Considerations:**

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs are important factors to consider. Contact the hospitals directly to inquire about accepted insurance plans and estimated costs for treatment.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

Access to clinical trials and research opportunities can provide patients with access to innovative therapies. The Cleveland Clinic system, with its research focus, often offers more clinical trial options.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals residing near Canton, Ohio (ZIP code 44709), several hospitals offer lung cancer treatment options. Aultman Hospital provides a local option with a dedicated cancer center. Cleveland Clinic Akron General, with its affiliation with the larger Cleveland Clinic system, offers a wider range of specialized services and access to research. Summa Health System – Akron Campus is another viable option. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the specific stage and type of lung cancer. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, consult with their primary care physicians, and seek second opinions to make an informed decision about their care. Remember to directly contact each hospital for the most up-to-date information on services, insurance coverage, and wait times.