17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 17070

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents near ZIP code 17070 (Mechanicsburg, PA), several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review analyzes key factors, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Harrisburg metropolitan area, encompassing Mechanicsburg, boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure. Several hospitals compete for patients, each with its strengths and weaknesses in lung cancer care. This analysis focuses on the hospitals most accessible to residents of 17070, considering factors like proximity and reputation.

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

Hershey Medical Center, a flagship facility, is a major player in the region. It holds a respectable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and responsiveness. While not a perfect indicator, it provides a valuable benchmark.

Hershey Medical Center’s emergency room wait times are a key consideration. Recent data suggests an average wait time of around 30-45 minutes. However, these figures can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours.

The hospital boasts a comprehensive cancer institute, including a dedicated lung cancer program. This program typically offers a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. This collaborative approach is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.

Hershey Medical Center has invested significantly in advanced technology, including advanced imaging techniques like PET/CT scans and minimally invasive surgical options. These technologies are essential for accurate diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lung cancer.

Telehealth capabilities are becoming increasingly important. Hershey Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Telehealth adoption rates are steadily increasing, offering greater convenience for patients. Precise data on the percentage of lung cancer patients utilizing telehealth services is difficult to obtain publicly, but the hospital's commitment to the technology is evident.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA):**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital, another major hospital in the area, also serves patients near 17070. Its CMS star rating fluctuates, often hovering around 3 stars. This indicates a level of care that is generally adequate but may have areas for improvement compared to higher-rated facilities.

Emergency room wait times at Harrisburg Hospital are a crucial factor. Data suggests average wait times can vary, often ranging from 45 minutes to an hour. Patients should be aware of potential delays and plan accordingly.

Harrisburg Hospital has a cancer center that provides lung cancer treatment. The center offers a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The hospital's multidisciplinary team collaborates to create personalized treatment plans.

UPMC Pinnacle has invested in advanced technology, including imaging and surgical equipment. While not always as cutting-edge as Hershey Medical Center, the hospital provides essential diagnostic and treatment options.

Telehealth services are available at Harrisburg Hospital. The availability and utilization rates of telehealth services for lung cancer patients are similar to those at Hershey Medical Center, with ongoing expansion of virtual care options.

**Other Considerations:**

Several other hospitals in the region may be relevant, though they may not be as directly accessible to residents of 17070. These include:

* **Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA):** Located relatively close to Mechanicsburg, this hospital offers cancer care and may be a viable option for some patients. However, its lung cancer program may not be as extensive as those at Hershey Medical Center or Harrisburg Hospital.
* **Community General Osteopathic Hospital (Harrisburg, PA):** This hospital provides general medical services, but its cancer care program is typically less specialized than those at the flagship hospitals.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond general cancer centers, some hospitals may have specialized programs or centers dedicated to lung cancer. These programs often offer advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and specialized expertise. Patients should inquire about the availability of these programs when considering their options.

**Clinical Trials:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer care. Patients should ask their physicians about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital. Hershey Medical Center, as a major research institution, often has a wider range of clinical trials available.

**Patient Experience and Reviews:**

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Patients should consult online resources, such as the hospital's website, Healthgrades, and other review sites, to gather information about the experiences of other patients.

**Insurance and Cost:**

The cost of care and insurance coverage are critical factors. Patients should contact their insurance providers to determine which hospitals are in their network and what their out-of-pocket expenses will be. The financial implications of treatment can vary significantly depending on the hospital and the specific services required.

**Making the Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. For residents near 17070, Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are the primary contenders. Hershey Medical Center generally has a higher CMS star rating, shorter ER wait times, and a more comprehensive lung cancer program. However, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital offers a viable alternative.

Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and oncologists to discuss their individual needs and preferences. They should also research each hospital's specific services, technologies, and patient reviews. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the most appropriate treatment options, and the most positive patient experience.