The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17053, Marysville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
Health Scores in 17053, Marysville, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score | 93 |
---|---|
People Score | 69 |
Provider Score | 86 |
Hospital Score | 42 |
Travel Score | 75 |
## Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near ZIP Code 17053
Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 17053 (Hershey, PA), providing a fact-rich overview of their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. This information is intended to empower patients and their families to make informed choices.
**The Landscape: Major Players in the Harrisburg Region**
The Harrisburg area is served by several prominent healthcare systems, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in lung cancer care. The primary players include Penn State Health, UPMC, and WellSpan Health. These systems encompass multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities, offering a range of services from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up care.
**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the flagship hospital within the Penn State Health system. It's a major academic medical center, often attracting complex cases and boasting advanced technology. Hershey Medical Center holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, indicating a generally high level of quality and patient satisfaction. This rating is based on various factors, including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience.
Hershey Medical Center has a dedicated **Lung Cancer Program** within its Cancer Institute. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans. The hospital is known for its advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans, crucial for accurate staging and monitoring of lung cancer. They also offer minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times.
**ER Wait Times at Hershey Medical Center:** The average ER wait time at Hershey Medical Center fluctuates. Data from recent months indicates wait times can vary, but it's generally advisable to check real-time data through online resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms like Google before heading to the ER.
**Telehealth at Hershey Medical Center:** Penn State Health has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual consultations for various specialties, including oncology, allowing patients to connect with their care teams remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations in some cases. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations. Specific telehealth offerings for lung cancer patients should be confirmed directly with the Cancer Institute.
**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Strong Contender**
UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, part of the UPMC system, is another significant healthcare provider in the region. While it does not have a CMS star rating, it is a large hospital with a comprehensive range of services. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a well-established cancer program that includes lung cancer care.
**Specialty Centers at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital features a dedicated cancer center that coordinates lung cancer treatment. They offer diagnostic services, including bronchoscopy and biopsies, and a full suite of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The hospital has a team of experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists.
**ER Wait Times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital also vary. It's recommended to consult online resources or the hospital's website for the most up-to-date information on wait times.
**Telehealth at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** UPMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual visits for oncology patients. Patients can access virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and other aspects of their care. Specific telehealth availability for lung cancer patients should be confirmed with the hospital.
**WellSpan Health: Expanding Access in the Region**
WellSpan Health operates several hospitals and outpatient facilities in the region, providing healthcare services to a broad population. WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, while not directly within the 17053 ZIP code, is a part of the WellSpan system and may be a viable option for some patients.
**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital:** WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital offers a range of cancer services, including lung cancer care. They provide diagnostic services, treatment options such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, and supportive care services.
**ER Wait Times at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital:** ER wait times at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, like other hospitals, fluctuate. It is recommended to consult online resources or the hospital's website for the most current wait time information.
**Telehealth at WellSpan Health:** WellSpan Health has increased its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits for various specialties. Patients can access virtual consultations for follow-up appointments and other aspects of their care. Specific telehealth availability for lung cancer patients should be verified with the hospital.
**Other Considerations: Access to Clinical Trials and Support Services**
Beyond the core treatment options, several other factors are critical in evaluating a hospital's lung cancer care.
**Clinical Trials:** Major cancer centers, like Hershey Medical Center, often participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies and research opportunities. Inquire about clinical trial availability during your initial consultation.
**Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally demanding. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including:
* **Patient Navigators:** These professionals help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support.
* **Support Groups:** Connecting with other patients and families can be invaluable. Inquire about local support groups offered by the hospitals or community organizations.
* **Nutritional Counseling:** Proper nutrition is essential during treatment. Ask about access to registered dietitians specializing in cancer care.
* **Palliative Care:** Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Ensure the hospital offers palliative care services.
**Specific Questions to Ask Potential Providers**
When considering a hospital for lung cancer treatment, be prepared to ask specific questions:
* What is the hospital's experience treating lung cancer?
* What types of lung cancer treatment options are available?
* Does the hospital participate in clinical trials?
* What support services are available for patients and their families?
* What are the hospital's ER wait times?
* What telehealth options are available?
* What is the hospital's infection control record?
* What is the hospital's patient satisfaction rating?
**Beyond the Hospital Walls: Community Resources**
Don't overlook the importance of community resources:
* **American Cancer Society:** Offers information, support, and resources for cancer patients and their families.
* **Lung Cancer Research Foundation:** Provides funding for lung cancer research and patient support programs.
* **Local Cancer Support Groups:** Search for local support groups in the Harrisburg area.
**Conclusion: Making the Best Choice**
Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research, offering a fact-rich overview of the major players in the Harrisburg area near ZIP code 17053. Consider the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and support services. By asking the right questions and gathering comprehensive information, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to qualified specialists to ensure you receive the best possible care.
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