17067, Myerstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17067, Myerstown, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 17067

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 17067 (Mechanicsburg, PA), providing a fact-rich overview of their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. This information is intended to empower patients and their families to make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Harrisburg area offers a range of healthcare options, from large, multi-specialty hospitals to smaller community facilities. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, requiring expertise in pulmonology, oncology, surgery, radiation therapy, and pathology. The availability of these specialists, along with advanced technology and supportive services, is crucial.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Located a short drive from Mechanicsburg, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major player in the region. It is a teaching hospital and a Level I trauma center, indicating a high level of resources and expertise. Hershey Medical Center holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cancer institute, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services. They have dedicated thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer, and radiation oncologists. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology, including PET/CT scans, crucial for staging and monitoring the disease. Hershey Medical Center is also known for its clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center can vary. According to recent data, the median ER wait time is approximately 20-30 minutes. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the severity of patient needs. Telehealth services are available, offering remote consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly useful for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.

**UPMC Harrisburg (Harrisburg, PA): A Regional Presence**

UPMC Harrisburg, another significant hospital in the area, offers a robust lung cancer program. UPMC Harrisburg is a part of the larger UPMC system, which provides access to a vast network of specialists and resources. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

UPMC Harrisburg features a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team. They offer surgical options, including minimally invasive techniques, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. The hospital is equipped with advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), for precise targeting of tumors.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg are typically in the 30-45 minute range, though these times can fluctuate. UPMC has been expanding its telehealth offerings, including virtual visits for cancer patients. This allows for convenient access to specialists and ongoing care.

**Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA): Community-Focused Care**

Holy Spirit Hospital, located closer to Mechanicsburg, provides a more community-focused approach to healthcare. The hospital is part of the UPMC network and benefits from the resources of the larger system. Holy Spirit Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Holy Spirit Hospital offers lung cancer screening programs, which are critical for early detection. They have a team of pulmonologists and oncologists who work collaboratively to provide care. The hospital offers surgical and medical oncology services, and they are equipped with advanced imaging technology.

ER wait times at Holy Spirit Hospital are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals, often in the 15-30 minute range. Telehealth services are available, though the scope may be more limited compared to the flagship hospitals.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors should be considered when choosing a lung cancer treatment center.

* **Specialty Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers or programs. These centers often have a team of specialists who work together to provide coordinated care.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services is crucial. These include patient navigation, social work, psychological support, and nutritional counseling.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's culture and patient satisfaction.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates a commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care.

**Specifics on Screening and Early Detection:**

Early detection is critical in lung cancer treatment. Hospitals in the area offer lung cancer screening programs, typically involving low-dose CT scans for individuals at high risk (current or former smokers, those with a family history). Check with each hospital for eligibility criteria and program details.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. Check with each hospital for the availability of telehealth services.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration:**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in emergency situations. While wait times fluctuate, the data provided above offers a general guide. It is always advisable to call ahead to the ER if possible, and to consider the severity of the symptoms when choosing a hospital.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality:**

The CMS star ratings provide a valuable overview of hospital quality. While not the only factor to consider, they reflect a hospital's performance across various quality measures. Higher star ratings generally indicate better outcomes and patient experience.

**The Importance of the Multidisciplinary Team:**

Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and nurses. The best hospitals have a well-coordinated team that works together to provide comprehensive care.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments:**

Clinical trials offer patients access to new and innovative treatments. Research the availability of clinical trials at each hospital, especially if standard treatments are not effective or if the cancer is advanced.

**Patient Navigation: Guiding You Through the Process:**

Patient navigators help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. They provide support, education, and assistance with appointments, insurance, and other needs. Look for hospitals with dedicated patient navigation programs.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Check with each hospital for information on insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for research, offering a fact-rich overview of the hospitals near 17067. Consider the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth options, and patient experience. By gathering this information, patients and their families can make informed decisions and find the best possible care. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and specialists to develop a personalized treatment plan.