Lung Cancer Score

15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

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Hospital Score in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania

Lung Cancer Score 40
People Score 34
Provider Score 53
Hospital Score 32
Travel Score 60

Hospital Score Review of 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania

## Lung Cancer Care in Southwestern Pennsylvania: A Deep Dive for ZIP Code 15464 Residents

For residents of ZIP code 15464, encompassing the Connellsville, Pennsylvania area, navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to comprehensive, high-quality healthcare. This review delves into the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, accessibility, and performance indicators relevant to patients facing this challenging disease.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate area around 15464 primarily relies on a network of hospitals within Fayette County and neighboring counties. UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) facilities, particularly UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh, are significant players, offering advanced care options. Excela Health, with its Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg, also provides a regional presence. Smaller community hospitals like WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital in Uniontown are also relevant for initial care and stabilization.

**UPMC's Flagship Facilities: A Closer Look**

UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside are the flagship hospitals in the UPMC system and are crucial for lung cancer care in the region. Both hospitals are located in Pittsburgh, approximately an hour's drive from Connellsville. They boast a robust infrastructure, including specialized oncology centers, cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, and multidisciplinary teams dedicated to lung cancer treatment.

UPMC Presbyterian consistently ranks among the top hospitals nationally, particularly in cancer care. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, UPMC Presbyterian typically maintains a high rating, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and quality of care. The hospital's Hillman Cancer Center, a nationally recognized cancer center, offers comprehensive services, including advanced imaging (PET/CT scans, MRI), surgical oncology, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and access to clinical trials.

UPMC Shadyside, also a major player in the UPMC network, complements Presbyterian's capabilities. It also houses a comprehensive cancer center, providing similar services. Both hospitals are known for their expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung cancer resections, leading to faster recovery times and reduced complications.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially in situations where rapid assessment and intervention are needed. Data on ER wait times can vary, but it's essential to access the most current information. Websites like Medicare.gov provide data on average ER wait times for specific hospitals. Generally, larger hospitals like UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside may experience longer wait times than smaller community hospitals. However, their ability to handle complex cases and provide specialized care is often a significant advantage.

**Specialty Centers and Multidisciplinary Approach:**

Lung cancer treatment demands a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields. Both UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside excel in this area. Their lung cancer programs involve pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care specialists (nurses, social workers, dietitians). This coordinated approach ensures that patients receive individualized treatment plans tailored to their specific cancer type, stage, and overall health.

These hospitals also have dedicated thoracic surgery programs, often with surgeons specializing in lung cancer surgery. They are equipped to perform complex procedures, including lobectomies, pneumonectomies, and mediastinal lymph node dissections. The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is another critical factor, allowing for precise targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

**Excela Health and Community Hospital Options:**

Excela Health's Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg, approximately a 45-minute drive from Connellsville, offers a more local option. While not as comprehensive as the UPMC flagship hospitals, Westmoreland Hospital provides essential cancer care services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. It is a valuable option for patients seeking care closer to home, particularly for initial diagnosis, chemotherapy, and supportive care.

WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital, located in Uniontown, offers another local option for residents of 15464. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as the larger hospitals, it provides emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and initial treatment options. Patients may be referred to larger centers like UPMC for more complex procedures or clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Both UPMC and Excela Health have expanded their telehealth capabilities, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients in 15464, reducing the need for frequent travel to Pittsburgh or Greensburg. Telehealth can facilitate communication with specialists, provide support during treatment, and improve access to care for those with mobility limitations.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside are actively involved in clinical trials and research, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies and innovative treatment approaches. This is a significant advantage, as clinical trials can provide access to promising new drugs and treatment strategies that may not be available elsewhere. Patients should discuss potential clinical trial participation with their oncologists.

**Navigating the System and Patient Support:**

The complexities of cancer care can be overwhelming. Both UPMC and Excela Health have dedicated patient navigators and support services to help patients navigate the healthcare system, understand their treatment options, and connect with resources. These services can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, providing emotional support, and addressing financial concerns.

**Specific Considerations for 15464 Residents:**

Residents of 15464 should consider the following when choosing a hospital for lung cancer care:

* **Proximity:** While UPMC Presbyterian and Shadyside offer the most comprehensive care, the travel distance may be a factor.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in-network with your insurance plan.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the pulmonologists, surgeons, and oncologists.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Read online reviews and check hospital ratings to gauge patient satisfaction and quality of care.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of patient navigators, support groups, and other resources.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, inquire about the availability of clinical trials.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of 15464 facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the choice of hospital is crucial. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh offer the most comprehensive and advanced care, with specialized oncology centers, cutting-edge technology, and access to clinical trials. Excela Health's Westmoreland Hospital and WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital provide valuable local options for initial care, chemotherapy, and supportive services. Careful consideration of proximity, insurance coverage, physician expertise, and available support services will help patients in the 15464 area make informed decisions and receive the best possible care for this challenging disease. Regular updates to hospital ratings, wait times, and service offerings are essential for staying informed and making the most appropriate choices.

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Health Scores Near 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania

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Health Scores in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania