45841, Jenera, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45841, Jenera, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Delphos, Ohio (ZIP Code 45841): A Comprehensive Review

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the best possible care, close to home, is paramount. This review examines hospitals near Delphos, Ohio (ZIP code 45841), focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer treatment, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to provide a starting point for patients and their families, but always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**Proximity and Accessibility: The Immediate Landscape**

Delphos, Ohio, a small city in Allen County, offers limited immediate healthcare options. The nearest hospitals with comprehensive cancer care are primarily located in Lima, Ohio, approximately a 20-minute drive, and Fort Wayne, Indiana, about an hour away. This review will focus on these two geographic areas, as they represent the most viable options for residents of 45841 seeking lung cancer treatment.

**Lima Memorial Health System: A Local Anchor**

Lima Memorial Health System (LMHS), located in Lima, is a primary healthcare provider for the Delphos area. While it doesn't have a dedicated "lung cancer center" per se, it offers a range of services relevant to diagnosis and treatment. LMHS's overall CMS star rating is not publicly available as of the latest data, indicating that it has not been rated by CMS. This can be due to various factors, including the size of the hospital and data availability.

**Lima Memorial's Cancer Care Services:** LMHS offers a comprehensive cancer program that includes diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, crucial for lung cancer detection and staging. They also provide chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. The hospital has a multidisciplinary approach, with oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and surgeons collaborating on patient care.

**ER Wait Times at Lima Memorial:** ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, general data suggests that Lima Memorial's ER wait times are typically within the national average. Patients can often find current wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Telehealth at Lima Memorial:** LMHS has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly valuable for patients undergoing treatment, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The specifics of telehealth services, including availability for oncology patients, should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**St. Rita's Medical Center: Another Lima Option**

St. Rita's Medical Center, also located in Lima, is another major healthcare provider serving the Delphos area. St. Rita's is part of Mercy Health, a large Catholic healthcare system. St. Rita's has not received a CMS star rating as of the latest data.

**St. Rita's Cancer Services:** St. Rita's has a dedicated cancer center offering a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists, experienced in treating lung cancer. They are equipped with advanced diagnostic technology, including CT scanners and PET scanners.

**ER Wait Times at St. Rita's:** ER wait times at St. Rita's vary, but are generally comparable to other hospitals in the region. Patients can find estimated wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Telehealth at St. Rita's:** St. Rita's, as part of Mercy Health, has a robust telehealth program. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including oncology. This allows patients to connect with their care team remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Fort Wayne, Indiana: Expanding the Horizon**

The city of Fort Wayne, Indiana, offers a broader range of specialized healthcare options, though it requires a longer drive from Delphos. This area is home to several large hospitals with comprehensive cancer programs.

**Parkview Regional Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Parkview Regional Medical Center (PRMC) is a major healthcare provider in Fort Wayne. PRMC has a 4-star CMS rating as of the latest data. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience.

**Parkview's Cancer Institute:** Parkview's Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer center offering a wide range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services. They have a dedicated lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The institute is equipped with advanced technology, including advanced imaging and radiation therapy equipment.

**ER Wait Times at Parkview:** ER wait times at PRMC can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. However, PRMC generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Patients can find current wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Telehealth at Parkview:** Parkview has a well-established telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments for various specialties, including oncology. This allows patients to access care remotely, which can be particularly helpful for those living outside of Fort Wayne.

**Lutheran Hospital of Indiana: Another Fort Wayne Option**

Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, also located in Fort Wayne, is another major healthcare provider. Lutheran Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating as of the latest data.

**Lutheran's Cancer Services:** Lutheran Hospital offers comprehensive cancer services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists, experienced in treating lung cancer. They are equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technology.

**ER Wait Times at Lutheran:** ER wait times at Lutheran Hospital can fluctuate. Patients can find estimated wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Telehealth at Lutheran:** Lutheran Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services for oncology patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Clinical Trials: Beyond Basic Treatment**

Beyond the basic services, consider the availability of specialty centers and clinical trials. These can offer access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

* **Lung Cancer Screening Programs:** Look for hospitals that offer lung cancer screening programs, especially for individuals at high risk. These programs often involve low-dose CT scans to detect lung cancer early.
* **Thoracic Surgery Expertise:** Assess the experience and expertise of thoracic surgeons, who specialize in surgical procedures related to the lungs.
* **Clinical Trial Participation:** Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.

**The Importance of Patient Experience**

While metrics like CMS star ratings and ER wait times are important, patient experience is also crucial. Consider:

* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to get a sense of the hospital's culture and the quality of care.
* **Communication and Support:** Assess the communication style of the care team and the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups.
* **Convenience and Accessibility:** Consider the convenience of the location, parking, and other factors that can affect the patient experience.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. The information provided in this review is intended to be a starting point.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Local Convenience:** For residents of Delphos, Ohio, Lima Memorial Health System and St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima offer readily accessible care.
* **For Comprehensive Cancer Centers:** Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with its higher CMS star rating and dedicated cancer institute, is a strong contender for those willing to travel.
* **For Research and Innovation:** Consider the hospitals with active clinical trial programs.
* **Consult Your Physician:** Ultimately, consult with your primary care physician and/or oncologist to discuss your individual needs and determine the best course of action. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history and specific diagnosis.

This review provides a snapshot of lung cancer care options near Delphos, Ohio. Due to the dynamic nature of healthcare, it's crucial to verify all information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers. Remember, the best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care.