15930, Dunlo, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15930, Dunlo, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Johnstown, PA: A Scorecard

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 15930 (Johnstown, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-based assessment of their capabilities, resources, and performance metrics. This is not medical advice; always consult with your physician.

**Defining the Scope:**

The analysis considers hospitals within a roughly 75-mile radius of Johnstown. This includes facilities in Johnstown itself, as well as those in nearby cities like Altoona, Pittsburgh, and State College. The review will examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized cancer centers, telehealth availability, and specific lung cancer treatment modalities.

**Hospital Performance: The CMS Star Ratings & Beyond**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. These ratings offer a snapshot of overall hospital performance, but they should be considered alongside other factors.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center (Johnstown, PA):**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, located directly in Johnstown, is a primary consideration for residents of the 15930 ZIP code. As of the latest available data, Conemaugh Memorial has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects its performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. Conemaugh Memorial is a large regional hospital and a significant employer in the Johnstown area.

**UPMC Altoona (Altoona, PA):**

Approximately 45 miles east of Johnstown, UPMC Altoona is a well-regarded hospital within the UPMC system. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, UPMC hospitals generally perform well in these evaluations. UPMC Altoona benefits from its affiliation with the larger UPMC network, which often translates to access to advanced technologies and specialized expertise.

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

For more complex cases, or when seeking access to cutting-edge treatments, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh (approximately 75 miles west of Johnstown) is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system. It consistently receives high ratings from CMS and other quality assessment organizations. Presbyterian Shadyside is a major tertiary care center, offering a comprehensive range of medical specialties, including a dedicated oncology program.

**Other Considerations: Noteworthy Hospitals**

Other hospitals within the radius, while not explicitly reviewed here, may offer valuable services. These include smaller community hospitals that may be more convenient for certain patients or offer specific programs. It is essential to research these facilities and assess their capabilities based on individual needs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's ability to handle patient volume and provide timely care. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, especially in situations involving potential complications.

Data on ER wait times can be found through various sources, including hospital websites, third-party healthcare comparison sites, and government databases. These figures can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and seasonal factors.

**Specialty Centers and Cancer Programs: The Heart of Lung Cancer Care**

The presence of a dedicated cancer center or a robust oncology program is a key factor in evaluating lung cancer treatment options. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists in pulmonology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and other relevant fields.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center:** Conemaugh Memorial's cancer program is a significant resource for the Johnstown area. It offers a range of services, including diagnosis, staging, treatment, and supportive care. The hospital often has a team of medical and radiation oncologists, as well as specialized nurses and support staff.

**UPMC Altoona:** UPMC Altoona also has a cancer center that provides comprehensive care. The hospital often offers access to advanced imaging technologies, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services. The UPMC network allows for seamless referrals to other UPMC facilities, including those with specialized expertise.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside:** UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, located at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, is a nationally recognized cancer center. It provides a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The Hillman Cancer Center is known for its research programs and clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest advancements in cancer care.

**Treatment Modalities: What to Look For**

Lung cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies. Key modalities to consider include:

* **Surgery:** The ability to perform minimally invasive surgical procedures (e.g., video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, or VATS) is a plus.
* **Chemotherapy:** Access to a comprehensive chemotherapy program, including the latest drug regimens, is essential.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Hospitals should offer advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy:** The availability of these newer treatments, which are often more effective and have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy, is a significant advantage.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and improve outcomes.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and remote patient education.

Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can provide convenient access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient outcomes. The availability of telehealth services should be a factor in evaluating lung cancer care options.

**Specific Capabilities to Inquire About:**

* **Pulmonary Function Testing:** Accurate and comprehensive pulmonary function testing is critical for diagnosis and treatment planning.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, is essential for accurate staging and monitoring of lung cancer.
* **Bronchoscopy:** The ability to perform advanced bronchoscopic procedures, such as endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), is crucial for diagnosis and staging.
* **Multidisciplinary Tumor Board:** A multidisciplinary tumor board, where specialists from different disciplines collaborate on treatment plans, is a hallmark of high-quality cancer care.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, and support groups, is essential for patients and their families.

**Researching and Choosing the Right Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following steps:

1. **Consult with Your Physician:** Discuss your diagnosis, treatment options, and any specific needs or preferences.
2. **Research Hospitals:** Use the information in this review and other resources to research hospitals near you.
3. **Check Online Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience.
4. **Contact Hospitals Directly:** Contact the hospitals you are considering to ask questions about their services, expertise, and patient outcomes.
5. **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
6. **Trust Your Instincts:** Choose the hospital where you feel most comfortable and confident in the care you will receive.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near Johnstown, PA, offer varying levels of lung cancer care. Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center provides local access to treatment, while UPMC Altoona and UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside offer access to broader resources and specialized expertise. Careful research, consultation with your physician, and consideration of your individual needs are crucial in making the best choice for your care. The goal is to find a hospital that offers comprehensive, compassionate, and effective lung cancer treatment.