15780, Valier, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15780, Valier, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15780

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment can be a daunting task. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 15780 (Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania), evaluating their capabilities, resources, and performance metrics relevant to lung cancer care. This information is intended to provide a starting point for patients seeking the best possible care, but it is crucial to consult with a primary care physician and specialists for personalized recommendations.

**Proximity and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of 15780 is largely rural, meaning residents may need to travel for specialized medical care. Several hospitals in the surrounding counties and cities emerge as primary contenders for lung cancer treatment. The focus will be on hospitals within a 50-100 mile radius, acknowledging that travel time and patient preferences can significantly influence choices.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA)**

Located approximately 80 miles west of Punxsutawney, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a flagship hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system. This hospital is a major player in the region and consistently ranks high in national surveys. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and access to clinical trials.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside has a high-volume thoracic surgery program, which is a critical factor in lung cancer outcomes. High-volume centers often have better outcomes due to the experience of the surgical teams. The hospital’s reputation for advanced technology, including minimally invasive surgical techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), is a significant advantage.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on various metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. The hospital’s performance on lung cancer-specific metrics, such as timely treatment and adherence to national guidelines, should be investigated further.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth:** UPMC hospitals, in general, have a mixed record regarding emergency room wait times. Patients should check current wait times on the UPMC website or through local news reports. UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth services, including oncology consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. Specific telehealth availability for lung cancer patients at Presbyterian Shadyside should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Research:** UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside houses the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, a renowned cancer center with a dedicated lung cancer program. The Hillman Cancer Center is actively involved in research and clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies and treatment options. The hospital's research focus can translate into better treatment outcomes for patients.

**Allegheny General Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA)**

Another major hospital option in the Pittsburgh area, approximately 80 miles from Punxsutawney, is Allegheny General Hospital (AGH), part of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN). AGH offers a comprehensive cancer program and is another strong contender for lung cancer care.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** Allegheny General Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Like UPMC, AGH’s performance on lung cancer-specific metrics, such as timely treatment and adherence to national guidelines, should be investigated further.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth:** ER wait times at AGH can fluctuate; current wait times should be checked before visiting. AHN has also expanded its telehealth offerings, including oncology services. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for lung cancer consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Specialty Centers and Research:** AGH has a dedicated cancer institute, offering a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. The hospital’s cancer program includes surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. AGH also participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to innovative therapies.

**Other Potential Options**

While UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and Allegheny General Hospital are the primary contenders for advanced lung cancer care, other hospitals within the region may offer some services and could be considered, particularly for initial diagnostics or supportive care closer to home.

**Indiana Regional Medical Center (Indiana, PA)**

Located approximately 25 miles from Punxsutawney, Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) may offer some diagnostic and supportive services for lung cancer patients. IRMC is a community hospital and may have a limited scope of specialized cancer care compared to the larger Pittsburgh hospitals. Patients may need to travel to Pittsburgh for advanced treatments like surgery or radiation therapy.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** IRMC has a 3-star CMS rating.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth:** Check current ER wait times. Telehealth options may be limited compared to larger healthcare systems.

**DuBois Regional Medical Center (DuBois, PA)**

Approximately 40 miles from Punxsutawney, DuBois Regional Medical Center may provide some initial diagnostic and supportive care. Similar to IRMC, DuBois Regional Medical Center is a community hospital and may not have the same level of specialization as hospitals in Pittsburgh.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** DuBois Regional Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth:** Check current ER wait times. Telehealth options may be limited.

**Factors to Consider in Hospital Selection**

Beyond the hospital's capabilities, several factors should influence the decision-making process.

**Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the pulmonologist, thoracic surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist are paramount. Patients should research the physicians' credentials, experience, and specializations.

**Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and support staff. The hospital's ability to coordinate care among these specialists is crucial.

**Access to Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative therapies and treatment options.

**Patient Support Services:** Hospitals should offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, social work, psychological support, and financial counseling.

**Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its physicians are in-network with the patient's insurance plan.

**Travel and Convenience:** Consider the distance and ease of travel to the hospital, as frequent appointments may be necessary.

**Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Read patient reviews and ratings to gain insights into the hospital's patient experience and quality of care.

**Conclusion**

For residents of the 15780 ZIP code and surrounding areas, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh emerge as the leading choices for comprehensive lung cancer care, offering specialized expertise, advanced technology, and access to clinical trials. Indiana Regional Medical Center and DuBois Regional Medical Center may offer some local services, but patients may need to travel to Pittsburgh for more advanced treatments. The best hospital for a specific patient will depend on their individual needs, preferences, and the recommendations of their physicians. Careful research, consultation with healthcare professionals, and consideration of the factors discussed above are essential for making an informed decision. The information provided here is a starting point, not a definitive recommendation, and should be supplemented with further investigation and personalized medical advice.