17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Deep Dive for Patients Near 17044**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized resources and experienced medical teams, is a critical first step. For residents near ZIP code 17044 (Hershey, Pennsylvania), several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review provides a detailed look at the key players, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses in lung cancer treatment, including information on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

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

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the dominant healthcare provider in the 17044 area. As a flagship hospital, it holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care. Hershey Medical Center is a teaching hospital, meaning it is affiliated with a medical school and actively involved in research and training. This often translates to access to the latest treatment protocols and a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

The hospital's Cancer Institute is a major draw for lung cancer patients. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology. Hershey Medical Center is a designated National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a distinction that signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking access to innovative therapies.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center can fluctuate. Data from recent months suggests wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and patient volume. This is a factor to consider, particularly if immediate medical attention is required.

Telehealth services are increasingly important, and Hershey Medical Center has invested in expanding its telehealth offerings. Patients can access virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources through telehealth platforms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Regional Presence**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, is another significant option for residents near 17044. It is part of the larger UPMC network, a well-regarded healthcare system. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Hershey Medical Center. This indicates a comparable level of overall quality.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital also has a dedicated cancer center that provides lung cancer treatment. While it may not have the same level of research focus as Hershey Medical Center, it offers a full spectrum of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, with a focus on personalized care plans.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are generally comparable to Hershey Medical Center, with potential wait times ranging from 30 minutes to over an hour. The hospital is working to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.

Telehealth services are available at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, though the scope of offerings may be slightly less extensive than at Hershey Medical Center. Patients can access virtual appointments and consultations, but the availability of specialized telehealth programs may vary.

**Holy Spirit Hospital: A Community Focus**

Holy Spirit Hospital, located in Camp Hill, is another option for lung cancer patients near 17044. This hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. It is known for its community-focused approach and its commitment to providing compassionate care.

Holy Spirit Hospital offers lung cancer treatment through its cancer center. It provides medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services. The hospital emphasizes a supportive environment and a strong focus on patient education and support groups.

ER wait times at Holy Spirit Hospital are generally shorter than at Hershey Medical Center or UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, often averaging under 30 minutes. This can be a significant advantage for patients requiring immediate medical attention.

Telehealth services are available at Holy Spirit Hospital, but the extent of these services may be more limited compared to the larger hospitals. Patients can access virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, but the availability of specialized telehealth programs may be less extensive.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital: A New Player**

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital is a more recent addition to the healthcare landscape in the area. It is part of the Geisinger Health System, a well-known integrated healthcare provider. The hospital is working to establish its presence in the region.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital offers lung cancer treatment through its cancer center. The hospital is focused on integrating its services with the broader Geisinger network, which has a strong reputation for quality and innovation.

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital are generally in line with other hospitals in the area. The hospital is working to optimize its emergency department operations.

Telehealth services are available at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, leveraging the resources of the larger Geisinger Health System. Patients can access virtual consultations and other telehealth services.

**Specialized Centers and Programs**

Beyond the general services offered by each hospital, several specialized centers and programs are worth noting.

* **Thoracic Surgery:** All of the hospitals mentioned offer thoracic surgery services, which are essential for lung cancer treatment. The experience and expertise of the thoracic surgeons are crucial for successful outcomes.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer. Each hospital has a radiation oncology department equipped with advanced technology.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists specialize in chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. The expertise of the medical oncology team is critical for managing the disease.
* **Support Services:** All hospitals provide supportive services, such as social work, nutrition counseling, and support groups. These services are essential for helping patients cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer treatment.
* **Clinical Trials:** Hershey Medical Center, as an NCI-designated cancer center, offers the most extensive clinical trial options. Patients may have access to cutting-edge therapies through clinical trials.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. It offers several advantages, including:

* **Convenience:** Patients can access care from the comfort of their homes.
* **Reduced Travel:** Telehealth eliminates the need for travel, which can be a significant burden for patients.
* **Improved Access:** Telehealth can improve access to specialists and other healthcare providers.

The hospitals in the 17044 area are all expanding their telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services when choosing a hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the hospital and the time of day. Patients who require immediate medical attention should consider the ER wait times when choosing a hospital. Holy Spirit Hospital generally has the shortest wait times, while Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital can have longer wait times.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment, patients should consider several factors:

* **Hospital Quality Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality.
* **Expertise of the Medical Team:** The experience and expertise of the medical team are critical for successful outcomes.
* **Specialized Services:** Access to specialized services, such as thoracic surgery and radiation oncology, is essential.
* **Clinical Trial Availability:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative therapies.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can provide convenience and improve access to care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be a critical factor for patients requiring immediate medical attention.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Online reviews and patient experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Residents near 17044 have several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Hershey Medical Center, as the flagship hospital, offers the most comprehensive services and access to clinical trials. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and Holy Spirit Hospital provide alternative options, with varying levels of specialization and community focus. Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital is a newer player, offering integrated services. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking referrals from specialists is crucial in navigating this challenging journey.