16212, Cadogan, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16212, Cadogan, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Clarion, PA (ZIP Code 16212): A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care, especially when facing a serious illness, is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near Clarion, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16212), focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer treatment, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to empower patients and their families with information to make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Options:**

The immediate area surrounding Clarion, PA, is primarily served by community hospitals. While major academic medical centers are not within a short drive, several facilities offer varying levels of care and access to specialists. Patients may need to travel for advanced treatments or clinical trials. This review prioritizes facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like specialized oncology services and overall hospital performance.

**UPMC Northwest (Seneca, PA): A Foundation of Care**

UPMC Northwest, located approximately 20 miles from Clarion, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the region. While not a designated cancer center, it offers foundational services crucial for initial diagnosis and management. UPMC Northwest is a member of the UPMC system, which provides access to broader resources.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Northwest currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is average, it's important to consider it within the context of the hospital's scope and service area.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor, particularly in emergencies. Publicly available data suggests that wait times at UPMC Northwest are generally within the national average. However, specific wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Patients should check real-time wait time estimates through online portals or by calling the hospital.
* **Oncology Services:** UPMC Northwest provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services through its oncology department. This is essential for patients requiring these treatments.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC, as a system, has robust telehealth capabilities. Patients at UPMC Northwest can access virtual consultations with specialists within the UPMC network, potentially reducing the need for travel. The availability of telehealth for oncology-related appointments should be verified directly with the hospital.
* **Specialty Centers:** UPMC Northwest is not a designated specialty center for lung cancer. However, it can facilitate referrals to specialists within the UPMC system, including those at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

**UPMC Kane (Kane, PA): A Community Hospital with Limited Oncology**

Located further afield, UPMC Kane, approximately 60 miles from Clarion, offers a smaller community hospital setting. Its oncology services are likely more limited than those at UPMC Northwest.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Kane currently has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Kane may vary, and data should be verified.
* **Oncology Services:** Limited oncology services.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth access may be available, but its scope should be confirmed.
* **Specialty Centers:** Not a lung cancer specialty center.

**Clarion Hospital (Clarion, PA): Local Access, Limited Specialization**

Clarion Hospital, a local facility, offers convenient access for residents of Clarion and surrounding areas. Its services are tailored to the community's needs, but specialized oncology resources may be limited.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Clarion Hospital’s CMS star rating should be confirmed.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times should be checked.
* **Oncology Services:** Limited oncology services.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth availability should be confirmed.
* **Specialty Centers:** Not a lung cancer specialty center.

**The Role of the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:**

While not directly within the immediate vicinity, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, with its main campus in Pittsburgh (approximately 90 miles from Clarion), represents a critical resource for lung cancer patients in the region. Hillman is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, signifying its commitment to cutting-edge research, advanced treatments, and a multidisciplinary approach to care.

* **Accessing Hillman:** Patients in the Clarion area can be referred to Hillman through their local physicians, including those affiliated with UPMC Northwest.
* **Specialized Lung Cancer Care:** Hillman boasts a dedicated thoracic oncology program, offering expertise in surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and interventional pulmonology.
* **Clinical Trials:** Hillman is actively involved in clinical trials, providing patients access to the latest experimental therapies.
* **Advanced Technology:** Hillman utilizes advanced technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques, advanced imaging, and targeted therapies.
* **Telehealth with Hillman:** UPMC's telehealth platform allows patients to consult with Hillman specialists remotely, reducing the need for frequent trips to Pittsburgh. The availability of specific telehealth services should be confirmed.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Radiation Oncology:** The availability of radiation oncology services is crucial. Patients may need to travel to facilities offering this treatment modality.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Access to experienced thoracic surgeons is essential for patients requiring surgical interventions.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists oversee chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Interventional Pulmonology:** Interventional pulmonologists perform procedures like bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) for diagnosis and staging.
* **Patient Support Services:** Cancer centers often offer support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
* **Second Opinions:** Seeking a second opinion from a specialist, particularly at a center like Hillman, is often advisable.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Patients should confirm their insurance coverage for services at each facility, including out-of-network options if necessary.
* **Transportation:** Transportation to and from appointments can be a significant challenge. Patients should explore transportation options, including family support, community resources, and hospital-provided transportation.

**Assessing the Landscape:**

The area near Clarion, PA, presents a landscape of community hospitals with varying levels of oncology services. UPMC Northwest provides a foundational level of care, while Clarion Hospital offers local access. The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, though further away, represents a critical resource for advanced treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise. Patients should work closely with their primary care physicians to navigate the system and access the appropriate level of care.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Start with a Primary Care Physician:** The primary care physician is the gateway to diagnosis and referrals.
2. **Consider UPMC Northwest for Initial Care:** UPMC Northwest can provide initial diagnosis, staging, and chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
3. **Explore Referral to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center:** For advanced treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise, a referral to the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is highly recommended.
4. **Utilize Telehealth:** Leverage telehealth options to access specialists and reduce travel burden.
5. **Investigate Support Services:** Explore patient support services offered by hospitals and cancer centers.
6. **Verify Insurance Coverage:** Confirm insurance coverage for all services.
7. **Plan for Transportation:** Arrange transportation to and from appointments.
8. **Seek Second Opinions:** Consider obtaining a second opinion from a specialist.
9. **Stay Informed:** Remain proactive in gathering information about treatment options and clinical trials.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations and treatment plans. Hospital ratings and services can change, so it is crucial to verify information directly with the facilities.