17017, Dalmatia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17017, Dalmatia, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

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

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 17017 (Harrisburg, PA) to provide a factual overview of available resources, performance indicators, and specialized services. We'll examine key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to help patients and their families make informed choices.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Harrisburg area offers several healthcare options, with a mix of large, established hospitals and smaller facilities. Lung cancer care requires a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and support staff. This review will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each major provider in the vicinity.

**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 player in the region. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a general indicator of overall quality. While not specifically a lung cancer rating, it reflects the hospital's commitment to patient safety and effective care.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cancer institute, including a dedicated lung cancer program. This program likely offers access to advanced diagnostic tools, including PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy. The hospital also participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center can vary. Data from sources like ProPublica's Hospital Compare show that wait times fluctuate, so it’s important to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online resources before seeking emergency care. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely for consultations and follow-up appointments. The specifics of their telehealth program, including available specialists and appointment availability, are best found on the hospital's website.

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

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, located directly in Harrisburg, is another prominent choice for local residents. It’s important to note that UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital's CMS star rating may vary. Patients should consult the CMS website directly for the most up-to-date information.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital has a cancer center that offers lung cancer treatment. The center provides a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options. The hospital's website should provide details on the specific lung cancer specialists on staff and the types of treatments they offer.

ER wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are also subject to change. Information from sources like the hospital's website or third-party healthcare data sites should be consulted for the most current estimates. Telehealth services are likely available, and patients should check the hospital's website for details on available services, including virtual consultations with oncologists or pulmonologists.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA): Proximity and Services**

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, located in nearby Camp Hill, provides another option for residents in the Harrisburg area. The hospital offers a range of medical services, including cancer care. CMS star ratings should be verified on the CMS website directly.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital’s cancer program likely includes lung cancer treatment options. Patients should check the hospital’s website for details on their specific lung cancer services, including the specialists on staff and the types of treatments offered.

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital can vary. Patients should consult the hospital's website or third-party healthcare data sites for current wait time estimates. Telehealth services are likely available, and patients should check the hospital's website for details on available services, including virtual consultations with oncologists or pulmonologists.

**Comparing Key Metrics:**

When comparing these hospitals, several factors are critical. CMS star ratings provide a general overview of quality, but they don’t specifically assess lung cancer care. Patients should delve deeper into the specific cancer programs at each hospital.

ER wait times are important for emergency situations. Patients should consider the average wait times, which can be found on hospital websites or through third-party healthcare data sites.

Specialized centers, such as dedicated lung cancer centers, often offer a more focused approach to treatment. These centers may have multidisciplinary teams, access to clinical trials, and advanced technologies.

Telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of telehealth varies between hospitals, so patients should check each hospital's offerings.

**Delving Deeper: Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general hospital services, the presence of specialized centers and programs is crucial. These centers often provide a more focused approach to lung cancer treatment.

* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** As a large academic medical center, Hershey Medical Center likely has a robust lung cancer program. They likely have a dedicated team of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They likely offer advanced diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Clinical trials are also a key component of their program, providing access to cutting-edge therapies.

* **UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital:** UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital's cancer center likely offers comprehensive lung cancer care. Patients should investigate the specific expertise of the medical staff, including the number of board-certified specialists and their areas of focus. The hospital's website should provide details on the types of treatments offered, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

* **Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:** Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital should be evaluated for the presence of a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer treatment. Patients should investigate the specific expertise of the medical staff, including the number of board-certified specialists and their areas of focus. The hospital's website should provide details on the types of treatments offered, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Telehealth in Lung Cancer Care:**

Telehealth is increasingly important in cancer care. It allows patients to receive consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some types of therapy remotely.

* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Hershey Medical Center likely has a well-developed telehealth program. Patients should check the hospital's website for information on available telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

* **UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital:** UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital likely offers telehealth services. Patients should check the hospital's website for information on available telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

* **Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital:** Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital likely offers telehealth services. Patients should check the hospital's website for information on available telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

**Additional Considerations:**

Beyond the hospitals themselves, other factors are important.

* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Online reviews and patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and others can be helpful resources.

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists accept your insurance plan.

* **Location and Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location and accessibility, including parking and public transportation options.

* **Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a factual overview of the major hospitals near ZIP code 17017. Patients should carefully research each hospital's lung cancer program, consider their individual needs and preferences, and consult with their primary care physician or oncologist to make the best choice for their care. Remember to verify all data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings, directly with the hospitals themselves.