15644, Jeannette, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15644, Jeannette, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Greensburg, PA Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 15644

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision, one that can significantly impact outcomes and quality of life. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near the Greensburg, PA zip code 15644, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer care. This isn't a ranking, but rather a comparative overview to empower patients and their families.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The immediate vicinity of Greensburg offers several healthcare options, with the most prominent being Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, the primary regional provider. Further afield, the city of Pittsburgh, approximately 30-45 minutes away, unlocks access to a wider array of specialized cancer centers and tertiary care facilities.

**Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital:**

Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital is the closest major hospital to 15644. As a community hospital, it provides a range of services, including cancer care. The hospital participates in the Commission on Cancer (CoC) accreditation program, which signifies a commitment to quality cancer care.

**CMS Star Rating:**

Westmoreland Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall performance across various quality and patient experience measures. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to consider the specific areas where the hospital excels, particularly within its cancer care services.

**Cancer Care Services:**

Excela Health's cancer care services include medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The hospital's cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of specialists working collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans. They also provide support services, such as patient navigation and support groups, which are vital for patients navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

**ER Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer or treatment side effects. Data on average ER wait times at Westmoreland Hospital can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Patients should check this data regularly, as wait times can fluctuate.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Excela Health offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for their specific needs.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh):**

Approximately 45 minutes from Greensburg, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a major academic medical center within the UPMC system. This hospital is a prominent player in lung cancer care, boasting advanced technology, research capabilities, and a comprehensive approach to treatment.

**CMS Star Rating:**

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside has a 4-star rating from CMS. This higher rating reflects a strong performance in various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Specialty Centers:**

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside houses the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, one of the largest integrated cancer networks in the United States. The Hillman Cancer Center is renowned for its expertise in lung cancer, offering cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

**Lung Cancer Program:**

The Hillman Cancer Center's lung cancer program offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. They utilize the latest technologies, such as robotic surgery, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, to provide personalized treatment plans.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a major research institution, actively involved in clinical trials for lung cancer. This provides patients with access to the latest advancements in treatment and the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking research.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Due to the hospital's size and complexity, wait times may vary.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

UPMC offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live outside of Pittsburgh.

**AHN Cancer Institute (Various Locations):**

The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Cancer Institute offers a network of cancer centers throughout the Pittsburgh area, including locations closer to Greensburg. The AHN Cancer Institute provides a comprehensive range of cancer services, including lung cancer treatment.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

Individual AHN hospitals have varying CMS star ratings. Patients should check the ratings for the specific AHN facility they are considering.

**Specialty Centers:**

The AHN Cancer Institute offers specialized lung cancer programs at several of its locations. These programs provide a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, with a team of specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Lung Cancer Program:**

The AHN Cancer Institute's lung cancer programs offer a comprehensive range of services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. They utilize the latest technologies and treatment approaches.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times at AHN facilities can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

AHN offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Several factors should be considered when selecting a hospital for lung cancer treatment:

* **Expertise and Experience:** Look for hospitals with experienced lung cancer specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team that collaborates on treatment planning.
* **Advanced Technology:** Assess the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, surgical techniques, and treatment modalities.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, providing access to the latest advancements in treatment.
* **Support Services:** Evaluate the availability of support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Location and Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location, travel time, and ease of access.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Research patient reviews and satisfaction scores to gain insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient experience.

**Specific Questions to Ask:**

When contacting hospitals, be prepared to ask specific questions:

* What is the hospital's experience in treating lung cancer?
* What is the hospital's survival rate for lung cancer patients?
* What types of treatment options are available?
* Does the hospital offer clinical trials?
* What support services are available?
* What is the hospital's approach to pain management and symptom control?
* What is the hospital's telehealth capability?

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides information to help patients near 15644 make an informed choice. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific strengths of each hospital. Consulting with a primary care physician, oncologist, and other healthcare professionals is crucial to developing a personalized treatment plan and selecting the most appropriate hospital for care. Remember to regularly check hospital websites and the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information on wait times, ratings, and services.