15555, Quecreek, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15555, Quecreek, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Rockwood, PA (ZIP Code 15555): A Detailed Hospital Review

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. This review provides a detailed look at hospitals near Rockwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15555), focusing on factors crucial for patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. This analysis incorporates data from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare databases.

**Proximity and Options:**

The immediate vicinity of Rockwood, PA, presents a more limited selection of hospitals compared to larger metropolitan areas. Residents often travel further for specialized care. The closest hospitals offering oncology services are the primary focus, with consideration given to those within a reasonable driving distance, typically under an hour.

**UPMC Somerset (Somerset, PA): A Local Anchor**

UPMC Somerset, located in Somerset, PA, is a key healthcare provider for residents of the 15555 ZIP code. It's a community hospital offering a range of services, including cancer care. UPMC Somerset has a CMS star rating, which provides a general indicator of overall hospital quality. While the specific star rating fluctuates, it's important to check the most recent CMS data for the current assessment. The hospital's oncology department offers diagnostic services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Patients needing surgical interventions for lung cancer would likely be referred to a larger UPMC facility, such as UPMC Presbyterian or UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh.

ER wait times at UPMC Somerset are a crucial factor for patients experiencing respiratory distress. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, they are generally accessible via the hospital's website or through online healthcare platforms. These wait times should be considered alongside the severity of the patient's condition. Telehealth options at UPMC Somerset are expanding, with virtual consultations becoming increasingly available. Patients can inquire about telehealth appointments with oncologists or pulmonologists for follow-up care and consultations.

**UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA): Flagship Facilities**

For advanced lung cancer treatment, patients in the Rockwood area often seek care at UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside, both located in Pittsburgh, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Rockwood. These hospitals are flagship facilities within the UPMC system and are known for their comprehensive cancer centers and specialized expertise.

UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside boast high CMS star ratings, reflecting their commitment to quality and patient safety. These ratings are a valuable benchmark, but patients should also consider factors like the hospital's specific lung cancer program and the experience of the medical team.

Both hospitals offer state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging techniques like PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy. They have dedicated lung cancer specialists, including medical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists. The hospitals' multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and individualized care.

UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside are known for their clinical trials and research programs, providing access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Patients have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials that may offer innovative options not yet widely available.

ER wait times at these Pittsburgh hospitals can be longer than at community hospitals, particularly during peak hours. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider their condition's urgency when choosing a location. Telehealth services are also available, allowing patients to connect with their care team remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and other non-urgent needs.

**Excela Health Frick Hospital (Mount Pleasant, PA): Another Option**

Excela Health Frick Hospital, located in Mount Pleasant, PA, is another potential option for lung cancer patients in the 15555 area. While slightly further than UPMC Somerset, it still falls within a reasonable driving distance. Excela Health Frick Hospital provides oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Its CMS star rating is another factor to consider.

ER wait times at Excela Health Frick Hospital should be investigated. The hospital’s website or online healthcare platforms often provide this information.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Centers: A Deeper Dive**

The availability of specialized lung cancer centers is a critical factor. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists from various fields to provide comprehensive care.

UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside are the clear leaders in this area, with their well-established cancer centers and dedicated lung cancer programs. These centers often feature:

* **Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards:** Regular meetings where specialists discuss individual patient cases and develop personalized treatment plans.
* **Advanced Diagnostic Imaging:** Access to the latest imaging technologies for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Expertise:** Highly skilled thoracic surgeons experienced in performing complex lung cancer surgeries, including minimally invasive techniques.
* **Radiation Oncology:** State-of-the-art radiation therapy options, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
* **Medical Oncology:** Experienced medical oncologists who specialize in chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Opportunities to participate in clinical trials, offering access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services such as oncology nurses, social workers, dietitians, and support groups.

**Telehealth and Accessibility:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for patients living in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

UPMC has been a leader in telehealth, and patients in the Rockwood area can benefit from these services. Telehealth options may include virtual consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at their chosen hospital and the specific services offered.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms. Longer wait times can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Patients should check the real-time ER wait times at their chosen hospitals before seeking care, using hospital websites or online healthcare platforms.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital:**

Beyond the hospital itself, other factors influence the patient experience:

* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in-network with your insurance plan.
* **Transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the availability of transportation, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Support System:** Identify a strong support system of family, friends, or caregivers who can provide emotional and practical assistance.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the hospital's reputation and the experiences of other patients.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Rockwood, PA (ZIP code 15555), the choice of hospital for lung cancer care involves careful consideration of proximity, specialized services, and quality of care. UPMC Somerset provides local access to oncology services. UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh offer comprehensive cancer centers with advanced expertise and treatment options, though requiring a longer drive. Excela Health Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant offers another option. Patients should research each hospital's CMS star rating, ER wait times, telehealth availability, and specific lung cancer programs to make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. Consulting with a primary care physician or pulmonologist can help guide the selection process.