17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Hummelstown, PA (ZIP Code 17028)

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review analyzes hospitals within a reasonable radius of Hummelstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17028), focusing on factors crucial to lung cancer care: expertise, technology, patient outcomes, and accessibility. We’ll examine flagship hospitals, their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth services, all aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding for patients and their families.

**Hershey Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, is a dominant force in the region. As a Level I trauma center, it handles a broad spectrum of medical needs. Its lung cancer program benefits from the resources of a major academic medical center. Hershey Medical Center consistently receives high marks for its commitment to patient safety and quality of care.

The hospital boasts a strong reputation in oncology, with a dedicated cancer institute. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center generally maintains a respectable score, reflecting its overall performance across various quality metrics. Patients should consult the most current CMS data for the most up-to-date information.

ER wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific real-time data varies, Hershey Medical Center, as a large hospital, can experience longer wait times, particularly during peak hours. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, but the hospital strives to triage and treat emergency cases efficiently.

Hershey Medical Center's lung cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach. This means patients benefit from the expertise of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively. This integrated approach is considered best practice in lung cancer care. The hospital invests in advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including sophisticated imaging equipment and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for cancer patients, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for certain services. This can improve access to care, especially for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility limitations. The availability and scope of telehealth services are continually evolving, so patients should inquire directly about options.

**UPMC Harrisburg: A Closer Contender**

UPMC Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, PA, presents another significant option for lung cancer care. It is a major hospital within the UPMC network, known for its comprehensive healthcare services. UPMC Harrisburg's cancer program provides a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

UPMC Harrisburg’s CMS star rating should be reviewed directly on the CMS website. This rating provides a snapshot of the hospital's overall performance. Patients can use this information to compare hospitals and assess their commitment to quality.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg can vary. The hospital is committed to providing timely emergency care. Patients can often find up-to-date wait time information online or by calling the hospital directly.

The hospital's lung cancer program offers a multidisciplinary team of specialists. This collaborative approach ensures patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs. UPMC Harrisburg invests in advanced technology to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.

Telehealth services are available at UPMC Harrisburg. Patients can access virtual appointments for certain types of consultations and follow-up care. This can improve convenience and access to specialists.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital: A Community-Focused Option**

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, located in Camp Hill, PA, offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. It provides a range of services, including cancer care. The hospital is part of the Geisinger Health System, known for its commitment to patient-centered care and innovative healthcare delivery models.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital's CMS star rating should be reviewed directly on the CMS website. Patients can use this information to assess the hospital's overall performance.

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital can vary. The hospital strives to provide timely emergency care. Patients can often find up-to-date wait time information online or by calling the hospital directly.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital's lung cancer program provides a multidisciplinary approach to care. The hospital offers a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Telehealth services are available at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital. Patients can access virtual appointments for certain types of consultations and follow-up care. This can improve convenience and access to specialists.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Clinical Trials**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, it's important to consider specialty centers and access to clinical trials. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg, as major academic medical centers, are more likely to offer access to cutting-edge clinical trials. These trials can provide patients with access to innovative treatments not yet widely available. Patients should discuss potential clinical trial participation with their oncologist.

Specialty centers, such as dedicated lung cancer centers, can offer focused expertise and resources. While not every hospital has a separate lung cancer center, the presence of a dedicated oncology department and a multidisciplinary team is a strong indicator of quality care.

**Accessibility: Navigating the System**

Accessibility is a critical factor. Consider the distance to the hospital, ease of parking, and availability of public transportation. For patients undergoing frequent treatments, these factors can significantly impact their quality of life.

Financial considerations are also important. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand the hospital's billing practices. The hospital's financial assistance programs can help patients manage the costs of care.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. It requires careful consideration of the factors discussed above, as well as a thorough discussion with your primary care physician and oncologist.

**Key Questions to Ask:**

* **What is the hospital's experience with lung cancer treatment?** Ask about the number of lung cancer cases treated annually and the experience of the surgical team.
* **What treatment options are available?** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **What is the hospital's approach to multidisciplinary care?** Confirm that the hospital has a multidisciplinary team of specialists who will collaborate on your care.
* **What are the hospital's outcomes for lung cancer treatment?** Ask about the hospital's survival rates and other outcome measures.
* **What telehealth services are available?** Inquire about the availability of virtual appointments for consultations and follow-up care.
* **Does the hospital offer access to clinical trials?** If appropriate, ask about the availability of clinical trials for your specific type of lung cancer.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near Hummelstown, PA (ZIP code 17028), Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg represent the leading options for lung cancer care. Both offer comprehensive services, advanced technology, and a multidisciplinary approach. Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital provides a community-focused alternative. Patients should carefully evaluate each hospital's strengths and weaknesses, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that best meets the individual patient's needs and preferences. Thorough research, open communication with healthcare providers, and a proactive approach to your care are essential to navigating this challenging journey.