15825, Brookville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15825, Brookville, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15825

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near the 15825 ZIP code (DuBois, Pennsylvania) and provides a fact-rich overview of their capabilities, using publicly available data to assess their strengths and weaknesses in lung cancer care. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations:**

The immediate area surrounding 15825 is primarily served by smaller community hospitals. While these facilities offer essential services, patients needing advanced lung cancer treatment often travel to larger regional medical centers. Therefore, this review extends beyond the immediate vicinity to include hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.

**Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital: A Local Hub**

Penn Highlands DuBois, located within the 15825 ZIP code, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the area. It's a vital resource for initial diagnoses, stabilization, and basic care. However, its capabilities in advanced lung cancer treatment are limited. The hospital may offer initial diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans, and may be able to provide some chemotherapy treatments. Patients requiring surgery, radiation therapy, or complex treatment regimens are typically referred to larger facilities. Penn Highlands DuBois does not have a dedicated lung cancer center. The hospital's CMS star rating is not readily available, and ER wait times can vary.

**UPMC Altoona: Expanding the Options**

UPMC Altoona, located approximately 70 miles from DuBois, offers a broader range of services. While not a flagship UPMC facility, it provides more comprehensive cancer care than Penn Highlands DuBois. UPMC Altoona has a cancer center that handles various cancer types, including lung cancer. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. They offer surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. UPMC Altoona has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. Emergency room wait times are generally reported to be within the regional average. Telehealth options are available, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside: A Regional Leader**

For patients seeking the highest level of lung cancer care, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh, approximately 100 miles from DuBois, is a prominent option. It is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system and is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research, clinical trials, and comprehensive cancer care. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside boasts a dedicated lung cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of experts. This team includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques like minimally invasive surgery and robotic-assisted surgery. They have state-of-the-art radiation therapy equipment, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Clinical trials are readily available, offering patients access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment. The hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. Emergency room wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to maintain efficient patient flow. Telehealth services are widely available, providing convenient access to specialists and follow-up care.

**UPMC Hillman Cancer Center: A Comprehensive Approach**

The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, affiliated with UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, offers a comprehensive approach to cancer care. It is a network of cancer centers throughout the region, providing patients with access to specialized care closer to their homes. The Hillman Cancer Center offers a wide range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services. They have a strong focus on patient education and support, offering resources for patients and their families. The Hillman Cancer Center also participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest treatment options. The CMS star rating for the Hillman Cancer Center is not readily available, as it is a network of facilities. Emergency room wait times vary depending on the specific location. Telehealth options are available at many of the Hillman Cancer Center locations.

**Geisinger Medical Center: Another Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pennsylvania, approximately 150 miles from DuBois, is another major healthcare provider in the region. It is a large, integrated health system with a strong reputation for cancer care. Geisinger offers a comprehensive lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They provide advanced diagnostic imaging, including PET scans and MRI. They offer surgical options, including minimally invasive techniques. Geisinger also has state-of-the-art radiation therapy equipment and offers chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Geisinger Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. Emergency room wait times are generally reported to be within the regional average. Telehealth services are extensively used, allowing for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**The Importance of Specialty Centers:**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, the presence of a dedicated lung cancer center is a significant factor. These centers bring together a team of specialists with expertise in all aspects of lung cancer treatment, from diagnosis to survivorship. They often offer access to clinical trials and the latest treatment options. The availability of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists collaborate to develop individualized treatment plans, is also a key indicator of quality care.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a factor in choosing a hospital, particularly in urgent situations. While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, longer wait times can be stressful and may delay access to necessary care. Patients should consider average wait times when making their hospital selection. These times can often be found online or by contacting the hospitals directly.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for cancer patients. Telehealth allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel and improving access to care. Many hospitals offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not a definitive measure of lung cancer care quality, a higher star rating generally indicates a higher level of overall quality.

**Making the Right Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, the stage of their cancer, and the availability of specialized services. They should also consider factors like proximity, insurance coverage, and personal preferences. Consulting with a primary care physician and a pulmonologist is crucial in making an informed decision. Researching hospitals, reviewing their websites, and contacting them directly to ask questions are also essential steps. The hospitals listed above offer varying levels of care, and the best choice will depend on the individual patient's circumstances. For advanced care, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and Geisinger Medical Center stand out as regional leaders. UPMC Altoona provides a more local option with a good level of care. Penn Highlands DuBois is a good starting point for initial diagnostics and local care, but may require referral to a larger facility for more complex treatment.