17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in Hershey, PA: A Comprehensive Review for Residents of 17021**

The diagnosis of lung cancer is a life-altering event, and choosing the right hospital for treatment is paramount. For residents of Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17021), access to quality healthcare is readily available, particularly in the nearby city of Hershey itself and the broader Harrisburg area. This review examines the key hospitals near 17021, focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a factual, unbiased assessment to aid in informed decision-making.

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

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center stands as a prominent healthcare provider in the region, located directly within Hershey. As a flagship hospital, it boasts a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. The hospital’s overall CMS star rating is a solid four stars, reflecting a good level of performance across various quality metrics. However, it's crucial to understand that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

The Hershey Medical Center features a dedicated Cancer Institute, which houses a multidisciplinary team of specialists. This team typically includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and supportive care staff, all working collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic capabilities, including state-of-the-art imaging technologies such as PET/CT scans and advanced bronchoscopy techniques, crucial for accurate staging and diagnosis of lung cancer.

In terms of surgical expertise, the hospital's thoracic surgery department performs a wide range of procedures, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times for patients. The hospital also provides access to clinical trials, offering patients opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research and potentially benefit from novel therapies.

Emergency room wait times at the Hershey Medical Center are a critical consideration. While specific real-time data fluctuates, the hospital generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times. It's advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by contacting the hospital directly before seeking emergency care. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including those related to lung cancer complications.

Telehealth services are increasingly important in modern healthcare. The Hershey Medical Center offers telehealth options for certain consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live at a distance or have mobility issues, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services should be confirmed with the specific physician or department.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Regional Player**

Located in Harrisburg, approximately a 20-minute drive from Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another significant healthcare provider for residents of 17021. The hospital's CMS star rating is generally in the three-star range, indicating an average level of performance compared to other hospitals.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a dedicated cancer center that offers a comprehensive range of lung cancer treatment options. The hospital's oncology team includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons, providing a multidisciplinary approach to care. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging and diagnostic tools, including CT scanners and other technologies essential for lung cancer detection and staging.

The hospital offers a full spectrum of surgical procedures, including traditional and minimally invasive techniques. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital also provides access to clinical trials, allowing patients to potentially benefit from innovative therapies.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are a key factor to consider. While specific wait times fluctuate, it is recommended to check current wait times online or by contacting the hospital directly. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle a variety of medical emergencies.

Telehealth services are available at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, offering patients the convenience of virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth options should be confirmed with the specific physician or department.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital: Expanding Options**

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, also located in the Harrisburg area, offers another option for lung cancer care. The hospital’s CMS star rating is typically in the three-star range.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital features a cancer center that provides comprehensive lung cancer treatment. The oncology team includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons, offering a multidisciplinary approach. The hospital has advanced imaging and diagnostic capabilities.

Surgical options at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital include traditional and minimally invasive techniques. The hospital also participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to innovative therapies.

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital are a critical factor. It is recommended to check current wait times online or by contacting the hospital directly. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle a variety of medical emergencies.

Telehealth services are available at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, offering patients virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth options should be confirmed with the specific physician or department.

**Other Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond the major hospitals, several factors are crucial when choosing a lung cancer care provider. The expertise of the medical team is paramount. Patients should inquire about the experience and training of the oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists involved in their care. Board certification is a good indicator of a physician's qualifications.

The availability of supportive care services is also essential. Lung cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Hospitals that offer comprehensive supportive care, including pain management, nutritional counseling, and psychological support, can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.

Access to clinical trials can be a valuable option for some patients. Clinical trials offer the potential to benefit from cutting-edge therapies. Patients should discuss their eligibility for clinical trials with their oncologist.

The location of the hospital and ease of access are important considerations. For residents of 17021, proximity to Hershey Medical Center is a significant advantage. However, factors like traffic and parking availability should also be considered.

Insurance coverage is another critical factor. Patients should verify that the hospital and physicians they choose are in their insurance network.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general cancer centers, some hospitals may have specialized lung cancer programs or centers of excellence. These programs often focus on specific aspects of lung cancer care, such as early detection, advanced surgical techniques, or targeted therapies. Patients should inquire about the availability of such specialized programs.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are playing an increasingly important role in lung cancer care. Telehealth can be used for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients' symptoms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live at a distance or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services should be confirmed with the specific physician or department.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. Patients should check current wait times online or by contacting the hospital directly before seeking emergency care.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Residents of 17021 have access to several excellent healthcare providers in the Hershey and Harrisburg areas. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, the expertise of the medical team, the availability of supportive care services, and the availability of telehealth options, patients can make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. It is always recommended to consult with a primary care physician or oncologist to discuss individual circumstances and receive personalized recommendations.