17102, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17102, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Harrisburg, PA: A Scorecard of Local Hospitals

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents near the 17102 ZIP code in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, several options exist, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-based assessment of the leading hospitals, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

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

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located a short drive from Harrisburg, is often considered the flagship healthcare provider in the region. It's a large, tertiary care center with a comprehensive cancer program. Hershey Medical Center boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), reflecting its overall quality of care. This rating is based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

The hospital’s Cancer Institute is a significant draw for lung cancer patients. It offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans. Hershey Medical Center is also a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a distinction that signifies its commitment to research and innovation in cancer treatment. This means patients have access to the latest clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center can fluctuate, but the hospital generally reports average wait times that are competitive with other major hospitals in the area. Data on specific ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

Hershey Medical Center has invested in telehealth, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or who have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services can reduce travel burden and improve access to care. The hospital's website provides detailed information on the types of telehealth services available and how to access them.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Strong Community Presence**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, another major player in the Harrisburg healthcare landscape, provides a significant presence in the community. While it does not have the NCI designation of Hershey Medical Center, it still offers robust cancer care services. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital's cancer program includes a dedicated lung cancer program with a team of specialists. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, working closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are often comparable to or slightly shorter than those at Hershey Medical Center. The hospital's website and other online resources provide real-time or near real-time information on ER wait times.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has also expanded its telehealth offerings. They provide virtual appointments for various specialties, including oncology. This allows patients to connect with their care team remotely, which can improve convenience and access to care.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital: Local Focus**

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, located in Camp Hill, is another important option for residents near 17102. While not as large as Hershey Medical Center or UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, it provides a valuable local option. Geisinger Holy Spirit has a 3-star CMS rating.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital's cancer program offers a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care for lung cancer patients. The hospital’s approach emphasizes a focus on patient support and comfort.

ER wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital are generally competitive with other local hospitals. The hospital’s website and other online resources provide information on ER wait times.

Geisinger has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for patients who live a distance from the hospital.

**Specialized Centers and Programs: Digging Deeper**

Beyond general hospital ratings, specific programs and centers can be critical for lung cancer patients. Hershey Medical Center's NCI designation is a significant advantage, providing access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. The hospital's Cancer Institute offers specialized clinics and services for lung cancer, including advanced imaging techniques, minimally invasive surgery, and targeted therapies.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital also offers specialized cancer programs, including dedicated lung cancer clinics and support groups. They focus on a comprehensive approach, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of patients.

Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital offers cancer care services, including lung cancer treatment. The hospital’s approach emphasizes a focus on patient support and comfort.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. All three hospitals – Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital – have expanded their telehealth offerings. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that make travel difficult. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their care team remotely for consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients.

**ER Wait Times: A Snapshot**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for any patient needing immediate care. While wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume, it's important to consider this when choosing a hospital. Publicly available data, often found on hospital websites or through the CMS Hospital Compare website, can provide insights into average ER wait times.

**The Verdict: Weighing the Options**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Hershey Medical Center, with its NCI designation and 4-star CMS rating, offers a comprehensive and research-focused approach. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital provides a strong community presence and a range of cancer care services. Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital offers a local option with a focus on patient support.

Patients should consider their individual needs and preferences when making their choice. Factors to consider include the severity of their cancer, the types of treatments they need, their insurance coverage, their proximity to the hospital, and their comfort level with the hospital's approach to care. Consulting with their primary care physician and a pulmonologist or oncologist is also crucial.

This review provides a starting point for research. Patients should visit the hospitals' websites, speak with their doctors, and consider their individual circumstances to make the most informed decision about their lung cancer care.