45887, Spencerville, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45887, Spencerville, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Wapakoneta, Ohio: A Scorecard

Finding the best care for lung cancer is a critical undertaking. This review analyzes hospitals near Wapakoneta, Ohio (ZIP code 45887), focusing on factors crucial for patients: quality of care, accessibility, specialized services, and technological integration. We'll examine hospitals' strengths and weaknesses, providing a factual overview to inform your healthcare decisions. This is not a recommendation, but an objective assessment based on publicly available data.

**Proximity and Initial Considerations**

Wapakoneta, a town in west-central Ohio, necessitates a look at hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This review primarily considers facilities in Lima, Dayton, and surrounding areas, acknowledging that access to specialized care might require travel. Proximity is a significant factor, but quality should remain paramount.

**Lima Memorial Health System (Lima, OH)**

Lima Memorial Health System, located in Lima (approximately 20 minutes from Wapakoneta), is a primary care provider for the region. While it offers comprehensive services, including oncology, its specific lung cancer care profile warrants closer inspection.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Lima Memorial currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. A 3-star rating suggests average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.
* **Oncology Services:** Lima Memorial has an established cancer center. However, specific details regarding its lung cancer program, such as the number of lung cancer patients treated annually or the availability of advanced treatment modalities like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), are not readily available in publicly accessible reports. Patients should directly inquire about these details.
* **ER Wait Times:** Publicly available data indicates average ER wait times at Lima Memorial. However, these times can fluctuate significantly. It is essential to contact the hospital directly for the most current wait time information.
* **Telehealth:** Lima Memorial offers some telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations. The extent of telehealth availability for oncology patients should be clarified with the hospital.
* **Specialty Centers:** Lima Memorial has various specialty centers. Information on its lung cancer specialty center, including the availability of specialized surgeons, pulmonologists, and medical oncologists, is crucial.

**Mercy Health – St. Rita's Medical Center (Lima, OH)**

Mercy Health – St. Rita's Medical Center, also in Lima, offers another option for residents near Wapakoneta.

* **CMS Star Rating:** St. Rita's also holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating indicates similar performance to Lima Memorial in terms of overall quality.
* **Oncology Services:** St. Rita's has a cancer center. Like Lima Memorial, the specifics of its lung cancer program, including treatment options and patient volume, need to be verified through direct inquiry.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor. Contacting the hospital for current wait times is essential.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services for oncology patients should be confirmed with St. Rita's.
* **Specialty Centers:** Information on its lung cancer specialty center is essential.

**Miami Valley Hospital (Dayton, OH)**

Miami Valley Hospital, located in Dayton (approximately an hour and a half from Wapakoneta), is a larger facility that may offer more specialized lung cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Miami Valley Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Oncology Services:** Miami Valley Hospital has a comprehensive cancer program. It is part of the Premier Health network, which could provide access to more resources and specialists. Details about its lung cancer program, including the availability of advanced treatments like minimally invasive surgical techniques, should be researched.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Contact the hospital for current information.
* **Telehealth:** The hospital offers telehealth services. The extent of these services for oncology patients should be confirmed.
* **Specialty Centers:** Miami Valley Hospital has specialty centers. The specifics of its lung cancer specialty center should be investigated.

**Kettering Health Dayton (Dayton, OH)**

Kettering Health Dayton, also in Dayton, is another major hospital option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Kettering Health Dayton has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Oncology Services:** Kettering Health Dayton has a cancer center. Details on its lung cancer program should be researched.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times should be confirmed.
* **Telehealth:** The hospital offers telehealth services. The extent of these services for oncology patients should be confirmed.
* **Specialty Centers:** Kettering Health Dayton has specialty centers. The specifics of its lung cancer specialty center should be investigated.

**The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus, OH)**

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus (approximately two hours from Wapakoneta) represents a potential option for highly specialized care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The Wexner Medical Center has a 4-star rating from CMS. This higher rating suggests better overall quality than the hospitals in Lima and Dayton.
* **Oncology Services:** As a major academic medical center, Wexner Medical Center offers a comprehensive cancer program, including advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be obtained from the hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Wexner Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, potentially offering significant convenience for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital has a specialized lung cancer center. The availability of specialized surgeons, pulmonologists, and medical oncologists should be researched.

**Additional Considerations: Key Metrics for Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond the general hospital characteristics, several specific factors are crucial when evaluating lung cancer care:

* **Multidisciplinary Team:** A comprehensive lung cancer program involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses. Inquire about the composition of the care team at each hospital.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of a full range of treatment options is essential, including surgery (including minimally invasive techniques), chemotherapy, radiation therapy (including SBRT), targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials provides access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials for lung cancer patients.
* **Patient Volume:** Hospitals that treat a higher volume of lung cancer patients often have more experience and expertise. While not always a definitive indicator, patient volume can be a useful factor.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates adherence to high standards of care. Check for accreditation status.
* **Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment often requires extensive support services, including patient navigation, psychological support, nutritional counseling, and financial assistance. Inquire about the availability of these services.
* **Technology and Innovation:** Advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, and the use of advanced radiation therapy techniques are critical. Investigate the availability of these technologies.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Accessibility is a significant factor, especially for patients who may require frequent appointments. Consider:

* **Travel Distance:** Assess the travel time and convenience of each hospital.
* **Transportation Options:** Consider transportation options, especially for patients who may not be able to drive themselves.
* **Appointment Scheduling:** Inquire about the ease of scheduling appointments and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Research patient satisfaction scores and reviews. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website can provide this information.
* **Communication:** Effective communication between the care team and the patient is essential. Assess the hospital's communication practices.

**Telehealth Integration**

Telehealth can play a vital role in lung cancer care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Consider:

* **Availability of Telehealth Services:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for oncology patients.
* **Types of Telehealth Services:** Determine the types of telehealth services offered, such as video consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education.
* **Technology Requirements:** Assess the technology requirements for telehealth services, such as internet access and a computer or mobile device.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a factual overview of hospitals near Wapakoneta, Ohio, focusing on key factors to consider. The hospitals in Lima and Dayton offer local options, while Columbus may offer more specialized care. Each patient's situation is unique, and a thorough investigation of each hospital's specific lung cancer program is crucial. Contacting the hospitals directly to gather detailed information about their services, treatment options, and the expertise of their medical teams is essential. Remember to prioritize quality of care, patient experience, and the availability of the resources you need to fight lung cancer effectively.