15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Shadow of the Alleghenies: A Review for ZIP Code 15853

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, especially when living in a rural area like the one surrounding ZIP code 15853, which encompasses the town of Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding communities. Access to specialized care can be a challenge, but several hospitals within a reasonable radius offer varying levels of expertise and resources. This review will examine the key players in the region, focusing on their lung cancer services, accessibility, and overall quality of care.

**Proximity and General Considerations:**

The primary hospitals serving the 15853 area are located in the surrounding counties, with varying travel times depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. Residents often travel to DuBois, Clearfield, and Johnstown for advanced medical care. While local clinics and primary care physicians provide initial screenings and referrals, specialized lung cancer treatment often necessitates travel to larger facilities.

**Penn Highlands DuBois: A Local Hub**

Penn Highlands DuBois, located in the city of DuBois (approximately a 15-20 minute drive), serves as a central healthcare provider for the region. While not a designated flagship hospital with a high CMS star rating, Penn Highlands DuBois offers a range of services relevant to lung cancer care. They have a cancer center, which includes medical oncology and radiation oncology. This means patients can receive chemotherapy and radiation treatments close to home, reducing the burden of travel.

However, it's important to note that Penn Highlands DuBois’s CMS star rating is currently unavailable. This rating, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a key indicator of a hospital’s overall quality and patient experience. The absence of a rating suggests that the hospital may not meet the criteria for public reporting or that its data is not yet available.

Regarding emergency room wait times, Penn Highlands DuBois's ER wait times are not publicly available. Patients should inquire about current wait times when seeking emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Services at Penn Highlands DuBois:**

Penn Highlands DuBois provides diagnostic services, including CT scans, X-rays, and potentially PET scans, which are essential for lung cancer detection and staging. They also have a pulmonary department that manages respiratory conditions and can provide support for lung cancer patients.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Penn Highlands DuBois offers telehealth options for certain consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be beneficial for patients living far from the hospital. However, the specific availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**UPMC Altoona: A More Distant Option**

UPMC Altoona, located in Altoona (approximately a 1-hour and 30-minute drive), is a larger hospital and part of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system. UPMC is a well-regarded healthcare system with a strong reputation for cancer care. UPMC Altoona is a better option for complex cases and advanced treatment options.

UPMC Altoona holds a 3-star rating from CMS. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of quality and patient care.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Altoona are variable and can fluctuate based on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services at UPMC Altoona:**

UPMC Altoona offers a more comprehensive range of services for lung cancer patients. They have a dedicated cancer center with medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology capabilities. This means patients can receive all aspects of their treatment, from diagnosis to surgery and post-operative care, within the same facility.

UPMC Altoona also has a thoracic surgery department, which is crucial for lung cancer patients who require surgical intervention. They likely offer minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can result in faster recovery times.

Telehealth services are available at UPMC Altoona, providing patients with access to specialists and follow-up care remotely. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live a significant distance from the hospital.

**Other Considerations: Community Hospital and Specialty Clinics**

Beyond the major hospitals, residents of the 15853 area may also access care through community hospitals and specialty clinics. These facilities may offer initial screenings, diagnostic tests, and supportive care services.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients experiencing symptoms of lung cancer or complications from treatment. While specific wait times vary, it's essential to consider this factor when choosing a hospital. Patients should inquire about current wait times when seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Both Penn Highlands DuBois and UPMC Altoona offer telehealth options for certain consultations and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can reduce the burden of travel and improve access to specialists.

**The Importance of Second Opinions**

Regardless of which hospital is chosen, seeking a second opinion from another oncologist or pulmonologist is always advisable. This can help confirm the diagnosis, treatment plan, and ensure the patient is receiving the best possible care.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

For residents of the 15853 area, accessing high-quality lung cancer care requires careful consideration of several factors. Penn Highlands DuBois provides a local option for initial treatment and supportive care, while UPMC Altoona offers a more comprehensive range of specialized services.

Patients should consider the following when making their decision:

* **Proximity:** Travel time to and from the hospital.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of medical oncology, radiation oncology, thoracic surgery, and other relevant specialties.
* **CMS Star Rating:** A general indicator of hospital quality.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Essential for urgent care needs.
* **Telehealth Services:** Availability of remote consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensuring the hospital is within the patient's insurance network.

By carefully weighing these factors and consulting with their primary care physician, residents of the 15853 area can make informed decisions about their lung cancer care, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment and support.