15473, Perryopolis, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15473, Perryopolis, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near 15473: A Scorecard of Options

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Understanding the quality of care available near you is crucial. This review analyzes hospitals near the ZIP code 15473, focusing on key factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a snapshot to help you make informed decisions.

**Geographic Considerations:** The 15473 ZIP code encompasses Uniontown, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. The nearest major medical centers are primarily located in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, roughly an hour's drive away. This necessitates considering travel time when evaluating treatment options.

**Highmark Blue Shield Network:** Many residents in this region are covered by Highmark Blue Shield. This often influences hospital choices due to network agreements and cost considerations. This review will note hospitals within the Highmark network when possible.

**UPMC System: A Dominant Force:** The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system is a significant presence in the Pittsburgh area. Several UPMC hospitals are likely to be accessible to residents of 15473. UPMC's extensive network offers a wide range of services, but quality can vary between individual hospitals.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside:** This flagship UPMC hospital is a major referral center. It boasts a strong reputation and often handles complex cases. While specific lung cancer survival rates are not readily available at the individual hospital level, UPMC as a system invests heavily in cancer research and treatment. Presbyterian Shadyside typically has a high CMS star rating, often hovering around four stars, reflecting good overall quality of care. However, CMS ratings are based on a range of factors, not solely cancer care. ER wait times can fluctuate, so it's best to check real-time data through online resources like the UPMC website or third-party sites like ERWaitTimes.com. Presbyterian Shadyside has a robust oncology department with specialized lung cancer teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Telehealth services are likely available, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations, given UPMC's investment in virtual care.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital:** While primarily known for women's health, Magee-Womens Hospital is part of the UPMC system and may be a resource for certain supportive care services, such as palliative care, for lung cancer patients. It is essential to confirm the availability of specific lung cancer treatments at Magee-Womens. CMS star ratings may be applicable, but focus primarily on women's health metrics. ER wait times should be checked independently. Telehealth services may be available depending on the specific services offered.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a major hub for cancer care within the UPMC system. It offers comprehensive cancer services, including advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and supportive care. While the main Hillman Cancer Center is in Pittsburgh, UPMC often has satellite locations closer to 15473. The availability of specific services at these satellite locations should be confirmed. CMS star ratings are not directly applicable to cancer centers, but the Hillman Center benefits from the overall quality of care within the UPMC system. ER wait times will vary depending on the specific location. Telehealth is a significant component of Hillman's care model, with virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs available.

**Other UPMC Facilities:** Other UPMC hospitals in the Pittsburgh area, such as UPMC Mercy and UPMC Passavant, may offer some level of cancer care. The scope of services and expertise will vary. It's crucial to investigate the specific capabilities of each facility and whether they have dedicated lung cancer specialists. CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be checked individually for each hospital. Telehealth offerings will depend on the specific facility.

**AHN System: A Competitive Option:** The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) is another major healthcare system in the Pittsburgh area, providing competition to UPMC. AHN hospitals may offer alternative options for lung cancer treatment.

**Allegheny General Hospital (AGH):** Located in Pittsburgh, AGH is a major AHN facility. It has a dedicated cancer institute and offers a range of cancer services. CMS star ratings should be checked independently. ER wait times can be variable; it's wise to check real-time data. AGH has a thoracic surgery department and medical oncology services. Telehealth services are likely available, but specific offerings should be confirmed.

**AHN Forbes Hospital:** Located in Monroeville, PA, AHN Forbes Hospital is closer to 15473 than some of the downtown Pittsburgh hospitals. It may be a more convenient option for some residents. Forbes Hospital has a cancer center and offers cancer care services. CMS star ratings should be checked independently. ER wait times should be checked in real-time. Forbes Hospital has a thoracic surgery department and medical oncology services. Telehealth services are likely available.

**AHN Saint Vincent Hospital (Erie, PA):** While further afield (approximately a 2-hour drive), AHN Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie, PA, may be an option, particularly for those seeking specific specialists or clinical trials. CMS star ratings should be checked. ER wait times should be checked. Saint Vincent has a cancer center and offers a range of cancer services. Telehealth services may be available.

**Independent Hospitals and Community Hospitals:** Smaller, independent hospitals and community hospitals closer to 15473 may offer some basic cancer care services, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, they may not have the same level of specialized expertise or access to advanced treatment options as the larger academic medical centers. These hospitals may not have CMS star ratings. ER wait times should be checked. Telehealth offerings will likely be limited.

**Factors Beyond Hospital Rankings:** While CMS star ratings and ER wait times are valuable indicators, they are not the only factors to consider.

**Specialist Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the lung cancer specialists are paramount. Look for board-certified pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons with specialized training in lung cancer. Inquire about the number of lung cancer cases each physician treats annually.

**Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Access to clinical trials is also crucial, as these trials may offer cutting-edge treatment options.

**Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment is best delivered through a multidisciplinary team approach. This means that specialists from different disciplines work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual patient's needs.

**Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigation, social work, psychological counseling, nutritional counseling, and support groups.

**Telehealth Considerations:** Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication management, and some types of counseling. However, it's important to ensure that the telehealth platform is secure and that the provider has access to the patient's medical records.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience at a particular hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful resources, but remember that individual experiences can vary.

**Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network. Understand your out-of-pocket costs for treatment, including deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance.

**Making an Informed Decision:** Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a significant decision. Researching the available options, considering the factors outlined above, and consulting with your primary care physician and other specialists will help you make the best choice for your individual needs. Remember to prioritize the expertise of the medical team, the availability of advanced treatment options, and the support services offered. Travel time should be considered when choosing a hospital near 15473, balancing convenience with the quality of care.