17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Hershey, PA (17013)

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. Proximity to home, the expertise of the medical team, and the resources available all play a vital role in patient outcomes. This review focuses on hospitals near Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17013), offering a fact-based assessment of their lung cancer care capabilities. We’ll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview.

**The Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The healthcare landscape near Hershey is dominated by a few key players, each with its own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to lung cancer care. Proximity is a significant factor, but don't let it be the only one. Consider the scope of services and the experience of the medical teams.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: The Flagship**

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, is the flagship hospital in the immediate area. It’s a large, academic medical center, and a major referral center for the region. Hershey Medical Center is a Level I trauma center, which means it has the resources and expertise to handle the most complex medical cases, including advanced lung cancer diagnoses and treatment.

**CMS Star Rating:** Hershey Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient experience, and other key metrics. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a strong level of performance compared to other hospitals nationally.

**Lung Cancer Specialty Centers:** Hershey Medical Center boasts a dedicated Lung Cancer Program. This program brings together a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists. This collaborative approach is crucial for providing comprehensive and personalized care.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress. The most recent data available indicates that the median ER wait time at Hershey Medical Center is approximately 20-30 minutes. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Hershey Medical Center has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth options. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations, allowing them to receive follow-up care and consultations from the comfort of their homes. Specific telehealth offerings for lung cancer patients include virtual follow-up appointments, remote symptom monitoring, and educational resources.

**Surgical Expertise:** The thoracic surgery team at Hershey Medical Center performs a high volume of lung cancer surgeries, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). High surgical volume often correlates with better patient outcomes. They are also equipped to handle complex procedures like pneumonectomies and lobectomies.

**Oncology Services:** The hospital's Cancer Institute provides a comprehensive range of oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The availability of clinical trials is particularly important, as it can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments that may not be available elsewhere.

**Other Hospitals to Consider: Expanding the Search**

While Hershey Medical Center is the primary focus, it's important to consider other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This expands your options and allows for a more informed decision.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** Located in Harrisburg, approximately 15-20 minutes from Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another major healthcare provider in the region.

**CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Lung Cancer Specialty Centers:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a dedicated cancer center that offers lung cancer treatment. They also have a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are generally in the range of 30-45 minutes, but can vary.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:** Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, also in Harrisburg, is another option.

**CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Lung Cancer Specialty Centers:** Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital has a cancer center offering lung cancer treatment.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are often in the range of 30-45 minutes.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger offers telehealth services.

**Factors to Evaluate: Beyond the Basics**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, consider these additional factors:

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores, often available through surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Look for hospitals with high scores in areas like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and overall hospital environment.

**Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates that a hospital meets specific standards for cancer care. This accreditation signifies a commitment to providing high-quality, comprehensive care.

**Technology and Equipment:** The availability of advanced technology, such as advanced imaging equipment (CT scanners, PET scanners), radiation therapy systems (e.g., linear accelerators), and minimally invasive surgical tools, can significantly impact treatment outcomes.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials offers patients access to the latest treatment options and can be a crucial factor in improving outcomes. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.

**Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment often involves a wide range of support services, including:

* **Oncology social workers:** To provide emotional support, counseling, and assistance with practical needs.
* **Nutritionists:** To help patients maintain a healthy diet during treatment.
* **Physical therapists:** To help patients manage side effects and improve physical function.
* **Support groups:** To connect patients with others who are going through similar experiences.

**Financial Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Cost of Care:** Inquire about the estimated cost of treatment, including doctor's fees, hospital charges, and medications.
* **Financial Assistance:** Explore any financial assistance programs offered by the hospital or other organizations.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. It's essential to weigh all the factors discussed above and consider your individual needs and preferences.

**Steps to Take:**

1. **Consult with your primary care physician:** Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options.
2. **Research hospitals:** Use the information provided in this review and other resources to identify potential hospitals.
3. **Contact the hospitals:** Call the hospitals and ask specific questions about their lung cancer programs, services, and patient outcomes.
4. **Schedule consultations:** Meet with the specialists at the hospitals you are considering.
5. **Trust your instincts:** Choose the hospital and the medical team that you feel most comfortable with and that you believe will provide you with the best possible care.

**Disclaimer:** This review is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions about your treatment. Data on ER wait times, CMS ratings, and other metrics can change frequently. Please verify the most up-to-date information directly with the hospitals.