The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 44816, Birmingham, Ohio is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
Health Scores in 44816, Birmingham, Ohio
Lung Cancer Score | 85 |
---|---|
People Score | 100 |
Provider Score | 42 |
Hospital Score | 69 |
Travel Score | 37 |
## Lung Cancer Care Near Bellevue, Ohio (ZIP Code 44816): A Scorecard
Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Access to quality care, from initial screening to advanced treatments, is paramount. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals offering lung cancer services near Bellevue, Ohio (ZIP code 44816), focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability. This is not a ranking, but rather a comparative overview to aid in informed decision-making.
**Proximity and Initial Considerations**
The primary considerations for patients in the Bellevue area are proximity and access. While specialized lung cancer centers might be further afield, the initial stages of diagnosis and treatment often involve local facilities. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that travel may be necessary for advanced care.
**Firelands Regional Medical Center (Sandusky, OH)**
Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky, approximately 20 minutes from Bellevue, is a significant healthcare provider. As of the most recent available data, Firelands holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality, based on factors like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. The CMS system is a widely recognized benchmark.
Firelands' Emergency Room (ER) wait times are a crucial factor for initial assessments. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data indicates that Firelands' ER typically sees patients within a reasonable timeframe, although this is subject to change depending on the time of day and patient volume. The hospital’s website and third-party websites often provide this information.
Firelands has a dedicated cancer center, offering a range of services for lung cancer patients. This includes diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The availability of a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is a key indicator of comprehensive care. Confirming the specific specialties and the presence of specialized lung cancer programs is essential through direct contact with the hospital.
Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Firelands offers telehealth options, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients facing mobility challenges or living in rural areas. The specific telehealth offerings, including the types of appointments available and the technology used, should be verified directly with the hospital.
**Fisher-Titus Medical Center (Norwalk, OH)**
Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk, approximately 25 minutes from Bellevue, also serves the region. Fisher-Titus currently holds a **3-star CMS rating**. This rating suggests a comparable level of overall quality to Firelands.
ER wait times at Fisher-Titus are another key consideration. Publicly available data on ER wait times fluctuates, but it is important to research the typical wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party sources.
Fisher-Titus provides cancer care services, including diagnostic and treatment options. Patients should confirm the presence of a dedicated lung cancer program, including the availability of specialized physicians and treatment modalities. The hospital's website or a phone call to their oncology department can provide this information.
Telehealth services are offered at Fisher-Titus, providing patients with remote access to their healthcare providers. Confirm the availability of telehealth services and the types of appointments offered.
**Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH)**
While further afield (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Bellevue), the Cleveland Clinic is a nationally renowned healthcare institution and a major referral center for complex cases. The Cleveland Clinic consistently receives high ratings and is a leader in cancer care. However, the travel distance and potential wait times for appointments should be carefully considered.
The Cleveland Clinic has multiple hospitals, and their CMS star ratings vary. Research the specific hospital locations and their ratings. The Cleveland Clinic's main campus generally receives high marks.
ER wait times at the Cleveland Clinic vary depending on the location and the time of day. The Cleveland Clinic's website provides real-time or near real-time wait time information.
The Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center is a world-renowned facility, specializing in various cancers, including lung cancer. The Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials. The availability of cutting-edge treatments and access to clinical trials are significant advantages.
The Cleveland Clinic has a robust telehealth program. They offer a wide range of telehealth appointments, including consultations, follow-up visits, and remote monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the main campus.
**University Hospitals (Cleveland, OH)**
University Hospitals (UH) is another major healthcare system in Cleveland, offering comprehensive cancer care. The travel distance is similar to the Cleveland Clinic (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes).
UH has multiple hospitals, and their CMS star ratings vary. Research the specific hospital locations and their ratings.
ER wait times at UH vary depending on the location and the time of day. The UH website provides real-time or near real-time wait time information.
UH's Seidman Cancer Center offers a wide range of services for lung cancer patients. The center provides advanced diagnostic tools, surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials. The multidisciplinary team approach, involving specialists from various fields, is a key strength.
UH offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely. Confirm the specific telehealth offerings, including the types of appointments available and the technology used.
**Specialty Centers and Programs**
When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, the presence of specialized programs is crucial. Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers or programs. These programs often involve a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including:
* **Pulmonologists:** Specialists in lung diseases.
* **Medical Oncologists:** Physicians specializing in cancer treatment using chemotherapy and other medications.
* **Radiation Oncologists:** Physicians specializing in cancer treatment using radiation therapy.
* **Thoracic Surgeons:** Surgeons specializing in chest surgery, including lung resections.
* **Pathologists:** Physicians who examine tissue samples to diagnose cancer.
* **Radiologists:** Physicians who interpret medical images, such as X-rays and CT scans.
These programs often offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as:
* **Low-dose CT scans:** Used for early detection of lung cancer.
* **Bronchoscopy:** A procedure to examine the airways.
* **Biopsy:** A procedure to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis.
They also provide a range of treatment options, including:
* **Surgery:** Removal of cancerous tissue.
* **Chemotherapy:** Using drugs to kill cancer cells.
* **Radiation therapy:** Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
* **Targeted therapy:** Using drugs that target specific cancer cells.
* **Immunotherapy:** Using the body's immune system to fight cancer.
**Telehealth Considerations**
Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of cancer care. It offers several advantages, including:
* **Convenience:** Patients can attend appointments from the comfort of their homes.
* **Reduced travel time and costs:** Eliminates the need to travel to the hospital for routine appointments.
* **Improved access to specialists:** Patients can connect with specialists who may not be available locally.
* **Improved communication:** Telehealth platforms often allow for better communication between patients and their healthcare providers.
When evaluating telehealth options, consider:
* **Types of appointments offered:** Are consultations, follow-up appointments, and other services available via telehealth?
* **Technology used:** Is the platform user-friendly and secure?
* **Availability of technical support:** Is there support available if you experience technical difficulties?
* **Insurance coverage:** Does your insurance cover telehealth appointments?
**ER Wait Times and Access**
ER wait times are a critical factor, especially during a cancer diagnosis. Long wait times can cause unnecessary stress and delay the initiation of treatment. Research the typical ER wait times at each hospital, and consider the potential impact on your care.
**Conclusion**
Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients in the Bellevue, Ohio (44816) area, highlighting key factors to consider. Patients should conduct thorough research, including contacting the hospitals directly to gather the most up-to-date information. Consider the CMS star ratings, ER wait times, availability of specialized programs, and telehealth options. The best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. Remember that the quality of care can vary significantly between hospitals, so make informed decisions.
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