16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the 16729 Vicinity: A Scorecard of Hospitals

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration of various factors, from specialized expertise to accessibility and patient outcomes. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 16729 (Bradford, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-rich assessment to aid informed decision-making. We will analyze hospital profiles, focusing on lung cancer-specific services, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and relevant specialty centers.

**The Landscape: Hospitals in the Region**

The immediate area around Bradford, PA, offers a limited selection of hospitals. Therefore, this review will expand the search radius to include hospitals within a practical driving distance, recognizing that access to specialized care often necessitates travel. Key hospitals to consider include UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA, and Olean General Hospital in Olean, NY, along with smaller community hospitals.

**UPMC Hamot: A Flagship with a Strong Reputation**

UPMC Hamot, located approximately 80 miles northwest of Bradford in Erie, PA, emerges as a prominent contender. It is a large, tertiary care center, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. While specific lung cancer data is not always publicly available at the ZIP code level, UPMC Hamot is known for its robust oncology program.

UPMC Hamot's CMS star rating is a critical indicator of overall quality. Hospitals are rated on a scale of one to five stars, with five being the highest. As of the latest available data, UPMC Hamot generally maintains a respectable CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and quality of care. This rating is a valuable starting point for assessing a hospital's performance across various metrics.

Regarding lung cancer specifically, UPMC Hamot likely offers a multidisciplinary approach. This typically includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. Patients can expect access to advanced diagnostic tools, including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy, along with a range of treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

ER wait times are a crucial consideration. UPMC Hamot, as a major regional hospital, may experience longer ER wait times compared to smaller facilities. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website or third-party platforms, provide average wait time information. Patients should check these resources to gauge potential wait times before seeking emergency care.

Telehealth is increasingly important for cancer care. UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure. This allows patients to access virtual consultations with specialists, receive follow-up care remotely, and participate in support groups online. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Olean General Hospital: A Community Hospital Perspective**

Olean General Hospital, located approximately 40 miles north of Bradford in Olean, NY, provides another option. While a smaller community hospital compared to UPMC Hamot, Olean General still offers essential medical services, including cancer care.

The CMS star rating for Olean General Hospital should be reviewed. Community hospitals may have different strengths than larger tertiary centers. The star rating provides a comparative assessment of overall quality.

Olean General likely offers basic lung cancer diagnostic and treatment services. This might include diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, complex surgical procedures may be referred to larger facilities.

ER wait times at Olean General are generally shorter than at larger hospitals. This can be a significant advantage for patients needing immediate medical attention.

Telehealth capabilities at Olean General should be assessed. While smaller hospitals may have less extensive telehealth infrastructure, they often partner with larger healthcare systems to provide virtual consultations and remote monitoring services.

**Specialty Centers and Specialized Expertise**

Beyond the general hospital profiles, it's crucial to investigate specialized centers and expertise. UPMC Hamot, being a larger facility, likely has specialized cancer centers with dedicated staff and resources. These centers often offer clinical trials, advanced treatment options, and support services tailored to cancer patients.

Specific expertise in lung cancer treatment is essential. This includes the experience and credentials of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists. Patients should inquire about the number of lung cancer cases treated annually, the types of procedures performed, and the success rates of treatment.

**Access to Care and Patient Experience**

Accessibility is a key consideration. The distance from Bradford to UPMC Hamot or Olean General should be factored into the decision-making process. Travel time, traffic conditions, and the availability of transportation are important practical considerations.

Patient experience is another critical factor. This includes the quality of communication with healthcare providers, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall comfort and convenience of the hospital environment. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Data Sources and Research**

The information presented in this review is based on publicly available data. Patients should consult the following sources for more detailed information:

* **CMS Hospital Compare:** This website provides information on hospital quality, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and patient satisfaction scores.
* **Hospital Websites:** Hospital websites offer detailed information on services, physicians, and patient resources.
* **Cancer Center Websites:** Specialized cancer centers often have their own websites with information on treatment options, clinical trials, and support services.
* **Third-Party Review Sites:** Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals provide patient reviews and ratings.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 16729.

The ideal approach involves:

1. **Research:** Thoroughly investigate the hospitals in the region, paying attention to CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities.
2. **Consultation:** Consult with a primary care physician or oncologist to obtain recommendations and discuss treatment options.
3. **Evaluation:** Weigh the pros and cons of each hospital, considering factors like specialized expertise, accessibility, and patient experience.
4. **Personalization:** Choose the hospital that best meets your individual needs and preferences.

This review underscores the importance of proactive research and informed decision-making in navigating the complexities of lung cancer care. By carefully evaluating the available options, patients can increase their chances of receiving the best possible treatment and improving their overall outcomes.