17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17007, Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for 17007

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents of ZIP code 17007 (Harrisburg, PA), several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review provides a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help you make an informed choice.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Harrisburg area is served by a mix of large, regional hospitals and smaller community facilities. Access to specialized lung cancer care, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, varies significantly between these institutions. This review will assess the key players and their strengths and weaknesses.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Located a short drive from Harrisburg, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major regional referral center. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not a perfect measure, reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. Hershey Medical Center's lung cancer program is robust, offering a multidisciplinary approach.

The hospital's Cancer Institute provides comprehensive services, including advanced imaging (CT scans, PET scans), minimally invasive surgical techniques, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy. They also have a dedicated thoracic surgery team. Hershey's lung cancer program participates in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments.

Regarding ER wait times, Hershey Medical Center's data fluctuates. The average wait time can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients seeking emergency care should be prepared for potential wait times. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website or through third-party apps.

Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly valuable for patients living outside of Hershey or those with mobility issues. Telehealth services can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits for oncology patients, are generally available on the hospital's website or through their patient portal.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA): A Local Option**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital is a major healthcare provider within the city of Harrisburg. It has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a lung cancer program with diagnostic and treatment services.

The hospital's cancer center provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Surgical options are available, though the scope may be more limited than at Hershey Medical Center. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers a multidisciplinary approach, involving oncologists, pulmonologists, and surgeons.

ER wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital also vary. Patients should be aware of potential delays, especially during peak hours. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone before going to the ER is advisable.

Telehealth services are available at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth options may vary depending on the specialist and the patient's needs. Information about specific telehealth services and their usage can be found on the hospital's website or through their patient portal.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA): A Regional Player**

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, located in nearby Camp Hill, is another option for residents of ZIP code 17007. It has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital's cancer program provides a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital offers chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Surgical options are available, with a team of thoracic surgeons. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, with a focus on coordinated care.

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, like other hospitals, are subject to fluctuations. It's essential to check for real-time wait time information before heading to the emergency room.

Telehealth is integrated into Geisinger's healthcare delivery model. They offer virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients can be confirmed through the hospital's website or by contacting their oncology department.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, smaller community hospitals and outpatient clinics in the Harrisburg area may provide certain diagnostic and treatment services. These facilities may be more convenient for some patients, but they might not offer the same level of specialization or access to advanced technologies as the larger hospitals.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

When evaluating lung cancer care, it's crucial to consider the presence of specialized centers and programs. These centers often have dedicated teams of experts, advanced technologies, and access to clinical trials. Look for hospitals with:

* **Multidisciplinary Cancer Centers:** These centers bring together oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care.
* **Thoracic Surgery Programs:** These programs offer surgical options for lung cancer, including minimally invasive techniques.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** These centers provide advanced radiation therapy treatments, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Clinical Trial Participation:** Hospitals participating in clinical trials can offer patients access to cutting-edge therapies.
* **Supportive Care Services:** Look for hospitals that offer supportive care services, such as palliative care, pain management, and psychological support.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially for cancer patients. It can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth capabilities:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Do they offer virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists?
* **Remote Monitoring:** Do they offer remote monitoring of patients' vital signs and symptoms?
* **Patient Portals:** Do they have a patient portal where patients can access their medical records, communicate with their care team, and schedule appointments?
* **Telehealth Statistics:** Check for information on the number of telehealth visits, the types of services offered, and patient satisfaction with telehealth services.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant concern for patients. Long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment. When choosing a hospital, consider:

* **Real-Time Wait Time Information:** Do they provide real-time wait time information online or through other channels?
* **Average Wait Times:** What are the average wait times for the ER?
* **Triage Processes:** How do they prioritize patients in the ER?

**Making Your Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each hospital. Factors to weigh include:

* **Severity of your condition:** If you have advanced lung cancer, a hospital with a comprehensive cancer center and access to clinical trials may be the best option.
* **Proximity and convenience:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access.
* **Insurance coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient reviews and ratings:** Research patient reviews and ratings to get insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient experience.
* **Consultation with your primary care physician:** Discuss your options with your primary care physician, who can provide recommendations and help you navigate the healthcare system.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of ZIP code 17007, several hospitals offer lung cancer care. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a flagship institution with a comprehensive cancer program. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital also provide care. Carefully evaluate each hospital's strengths and weaknesses, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to make the best decision for your individual needs. Remember to consult with your physician to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.