15658, Ligonier, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15658, Ligonier, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15658

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to quality care, from initial screening to advanced treatment, is paramount. This review examines hospitals in the vicinity of ZIP code 15658 (Greensburg, Pennsylvania), focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, including key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape around Greensburg is primarily served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity to Pittsburgh, approximately 30-40 miles away, expands the options to include nationally recognized institutions. The quality of lung cancer care varies significantly, necessitating a thorough evaluation of each facility's resources and expertise.

**Excela Health System:**

Excela Health is a major healthcare provider in the region, with several hospitals serving the 15658 area. Their flagship facilities, Excela Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg and Excela Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant, are central to their operations.

* **Excela Westmoreland Hospital:** This hospital is the closest major facility to 15658. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it's crucial to check the most recent data on the CMS website ([https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/](https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/)). The hospital's oncology department offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The availability of advanced techniques like minimally invasive surgical procedures for lung cancer should be confirmed. Emergency room wait times are a critical factor. While specific real-time data varies, the hospital's website or third-party sites like ER Wait Times ([https://erwaitimes.com/](https://erwaitimes.com/)) should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Telehealth services are increasingly important. Confirm the availability of oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups via telehealth platforms.
* **Excela Frick Hospital:** Located in Mount Pleasant, this hospital offers similar services, though the scope and intensity of care may differ. The CMS star rating and ER wait times should be assessed independently. The hospital's oncology program and the availability of specialized lung cancer care should be confirmed.
* **Excela Latrobe Hospital:** This facility is also part of the Excela Health system. Its proximity to Greensburg makes it a viable option, and its capabilities should be evaluated.

**UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center):**

UPMC is a major healthcare system with a significant presence in the Pittsburgh area. While not immediately in the 15658 ZIP code, UPMC facilities are within a reasonable driving distance and offer specialized lung cancer care.

* **UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** This is UPMC's flagship cancer center, known for its comprehensive approach to cancer treatment and research. While located in Pittsburgh, it is a top-tier option for advanced lung cancer care. The CMS star rating is not directly applicable to a cancer center, but the center's reputation and research output are significant indicators of quality. The Hillman Cancer Center offers a full spectrum of services, including cutting-edge diagnostic tools, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and clinical trials. Access to clinical trials is a critical advantage, providing patients with access to innovative therapies. ER wait times at UPMC facilities should be researched individually. UPMC is a leader in telehealth. Confirm the availability of telehealth consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring options.
* **UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside:** These hospitals are major UPMC facilities located in Pittsburgh, providing comprehensive medical services, including cancer care. They offer a range of oncology services and may be a good option for certain patients. Their CMS star ratings and ER wait times should be assessed.

**AHN (Allegheny Health Network):**

AHN is another major healthcare system in the Pittsburgh area, offering a network of hospitals and specialty centers.

* **AHN Cancer Institute:** This institute provides comprehensive cancer care across the AHN system. The specific capabilities of the AHN facilities closest to 15658 should be investigated. The CMS star ratings and ER wait times of these facilities should be checked. The availability of specialized lung cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, and radiation therapy, should be verified.
* **AHN Forbes Hospital:** Located in Monroeville, this hospital is within a reasonable distance of Greensburg. The hospital's oncology program and the expertise of its lung cancer specialists should be assessed.

**Key Considerations for Evaluation:**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, several factors are crucial:

* **Specialty Centers:** Does the hospital have a dedicated lung cancer center or a multidisciplinary team specializing in lung cancer? This team should include pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, and nurses specializing in oncology.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Does the hospital have access to advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, and advanced bronchoscopy techniques?
* **Treatment Options:** Does the hospital offer a full range of treatment options, including surgery (e.g., minimally invasive techniques), radiation therapy (e.g., stereotactic body radiation therapy), chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy?
* **Clinical Trials:** Does the hospital participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies?
* **Surgical Expertise:** What is the experience of the thoracic surgeons in performing lung cancer surgeries?
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital have a multidisciplinary team that meets regularly to discuss patient cases and develop individualized treatment plans?
* **Support Services:** Does the hospital offer support services such as patient navigators, social workers, support groups, and palliative care?
* **Telehealth:** Does the hospital offer telehealth consultations and follow-up appointments?
* **Accreditation:** Is the hospital accredited by organizations such as the Commission on Cancer (CoC)?

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly in an emergency. Real-time data is often available on hospital websites or third-party sites. These times can vary significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support services. Confirm the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer patients. Remote monitoring technologies can also play a role in managing symptoms and improving patient outcomes.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides star ratings for hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings can be a helpful starting point for evaluating hospital performance. However, it's important to understand the limitations of these ratings and to consider other factors, such as the hospital's reputation, the expertise of its physicians, and the availability of specialized services.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. Residents of the 15658 ZIP code have access to a range of options, from local community hospitals to major regional medical centers. Thorough research, including evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth options, and the expertise of the medical staff, is essential. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and, if possible, seek second opinions from specialists to determine the best course of action for their individual needs. The best choice is the one that offers the most comprehensive, personalized, and compassionate care.