17029, Granville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17029, Granville, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Deep Dive for Patients Near 17029

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, demanding thorough research and careful consideration. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 17029 (Elizabethtown, PA), providing a fact-rich overview of their capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. This information is designed to empower patients and their families to make informed choices during a challenging time.

**The Landscape: Harrisburg and Beyond**

The Harrisburg area, encompassing 17029, offers a range of healthcare options. While the immediate vicinity might have limited choices, patients often travel to Harrisburg and surrounding areas for specialized care. The primary focus here will be on the major players, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

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

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, is a major regional referral center and a cornerstone of healthcare in the area. It consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive cancer care. The hospital is a nationally recognized center for cancer treatment and research, holding a National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation. This designation indicates a commitment to cutting-edge research and clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest advancements in lung cancer therapies.

Hershey Medical Center’s lung cancer program boasts a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses. This collaborative approach is crucial for developing individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. The hospital’s advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy suites, facilitate accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

Hershey Medical Center also has a strong focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times and reduced pain. The hospital’s radiation oncology department utilizes advanced technologies, including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), to precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Performance:**

Hershey Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital’s overall quality of care, including patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience. Emergency room wait times can vary, but generally, the hospital strives to provide timely care. Publicly available data on ER wait times is readily accessible on the hospital’s website and through platforms like ProPublica. It is important to note that ER wait times are dynamic and can fluctuate based on patient volume and the severity of cases.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, is another major healthcare provider serving the 17029 area. This hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer treatment, with a focus on patient-centered care. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital is part of the larger UPMC system, which is known for its extensive network of hospitals and specialists.

The hospital’s lung cancer program features a multidisciplinary team of specialists dedicated to providing comprehensive care. They offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology, including PET/CT scanners, to aid in the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

**CMS Star Rating and ER Performance:**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital holds a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are also publicly available and can be accessed on the hospital’s website and through third-party platforms. As with any emergency room, wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Delving Deeper**

Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital have established specialty centers and programs that cater to specific aspects of lung cancer care. These programs often focus on areas like early detection, smoking cessation, and supportive care services.

**Hershey Medical Center:** Offers a dedicated lung cancer screening program for individuals at high risk, including those with a history of smoking. The hospital also provides comprehensive smoking cessation programs to help patients quit smoking and improve their overall health.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital:** Provides a range of supportive care services, including palliative care and pain management, to help patients manage the physical and emotional challenges of lung cancer.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of healthcare delivery, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offer telehealth services to varying degrees.

**Hershey Medical Center:** Offers telehealth consultations with oncologists and other specialists, allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital:** Has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties, including oncology. This allows patients to connect with their care teams remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Important Considerations: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond the specific services and ratings, several other factors are crucial when choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment.

* **Experience and Expertise:** Inquire about the experience and expertise of the lung cancer specialists, including the number of lung cancer cases they treat annually.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider whether the hospital offers access to clinical trials, which can provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies.
* **Patient Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive patient support services, including counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan and that the services you need are covered.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access, especially if you will be undergoing frequent treatments.

**Other Hospitals to Consider (with caveats)**

While Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are the dominant players, other hospitals in the region may offer some level of lung cancer care. However, their scope and specialization may be more limited.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA):** Offers cancer care services and may provide some lung cancer treatment options. However, it is important to verify the extent of their lung cancer program and the expertise of their specialists.

**The Bottom Line: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Patients near 17029 should carefully consider the factors outlined in this review, including the hospital's reputation, CMS star rating, ER wait times, specialized programs, telehealth options, and the expertise of the care team. Visiting the hospitals, speaking with specialists, and gathering information from multiple sources are crucial steps in making an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek their recommendations.