15624, Crabtree, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15624, Crabtree, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Greensburg Area: A Comprehensive Review

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near the 15624 ZIP code (Greensburg, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-rich assessment of their lung cancer services, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. Understanding these factors can help patients and their families navigate the complexities of care.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in Westmoreland County**

Greensburg, Pennsylvania, sits within Westmoreland County, a region with a mix of community hospitals and larger healthcare systems. Proximity to Pittsburgh expands treatment options, but local facilities offer crucial access. This review analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on their ability to diagnose, treat, and support patients with lung cancer.

**Excela Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Excela Health is a dominant player in the Westmoreland County healthcare landscape. It operates three hospitals: Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg, Excela Health Latrobe Hospital, and Excela Health Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant. While not all facilities offer the same breadth of services, the system provides a coordinated approach to care.

**Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital:** This is the flagship hospital within the Excela system and is located directly within the 15624 ZIP code. Westmoreland Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality, but it’s essential to delve deeper into specific lung cancer metrics. The hospital’s oncology department offers comprehensive services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. While specific lung cancer survival rates are not publicly available for individual hospitals, patients should inquire about the hospital's outcomes and compare them with national averages.

**ER Wait Times at Westmoreland Hospital:** Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of access to care. While real-time data fluctuates, the average ER wait time at Westmoreland Hospital can be found on websites like [Insert Hospital Website or Third-Party Site Here]. This information is vital for patients experiencing symptoms that require immediate attention.

**Excela Health Latrobe Hospital:** Located approximately 10 miles from Greensburg, Latrobe Hospital also contributes to the Excela Health system. It is a 3-star rated hospital by CMS. Patients may find certain specialized services, such as advanced imaging or specific surgical procedures, available at Latrobe Hospital.

**Excela Health Frick Hospital:** Situated in Mount Pleasant, roughly 15 miles from Greensburg, Frick Hospital is the third hospital within the Excela Health system. Information on CMS ratings and specific lung cancer services should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise within Excela Health:** Excela Health has a network of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. These specialists work collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans. Patients should inquire about the experience and expertise of the medical team, including the number of lung cancer cases treated annually and the availability of clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care at Excela Health:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for healthcare access. Excela Health offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Patients should confirm the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer care, such as virtual consultations with oncologists or support groups.

**UPMC: A Pittsburgh-Based Option**

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system is a major healthcare provider in the Pittsburgh region, located approximately 30-45 minutes from Greensburg. While not directly within the 15624 ZIP code, UPMC offers a comprehensive range of services and may be a viable option for certain patients.

**UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside:** These two flagship hospitals within the UPMC system are renowned for their cancer care. UPMC Presbyterian has a 4-star CMS rating, while UPMC Shadyside also has a 4-star CMS rating. Both hospitals are major referral centers for lung cancer, offering advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge treatments, and clinical trials.

**The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a dedicated cancer treatment facility with multiple locations, including facilities connected to UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC Shadyside. The Hillman Cancer Center is a hub for lung cancer research and treatment, offering a wide array of services, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.

**ER Wait Times at UPMC Hospitals:** ER wait times at UPMC hospitals, including Presbyterian and Shadyside, can be found on the UPMC website or third-party websites. Due to their high patient volume, wait times may be longer than at smaller community hospitals.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise at UPMC:** UPMC boasts a multidisciplinary team of lung cancer specialists, including thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, and pathologists. The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is particularly well-regarded for its expertise in lung cancer treatment. Patients should inquire about the experience and credentials of the medical team.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care at UPMC:** UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth services. Patients can access virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups. Confirm the availability of telehealth options specific to lung cancer care.

**Other Considerations: Private Practices and Outpatient Clinics**

Beyond the major hospital systems, private practices and outpatient clinics in the Greensburg area offer lung cancer-related services. These facilities may provide diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, or follow-up care. Researching these options can expand a patient's choices.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for lung cancer treatment, patients should consider several factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** While not the sole determinant, the CMS star rating provides a general indication of quality.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) demonstrates a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Specialty Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team are paramount. Inquire about the number of lung cancer cases treated annually and the availability of specialized services.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** Assess ER wait times, especially if experiencing urgent symptoms.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Explore the availability of telehealth services for convenience and access.
* **Patient Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in-network with your insurance plan.

**Research and Due Diligence: The Patient's Role**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a significant decision. Patients should conduct thorough research, ask questions, and seek second opinions. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near the 15624 ZIP code, but individual needs and preferences should guide the final choice. Contacting the hospitals directly to gather specific information and schedule consultations is essential.