17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Chambersburg, PA: A Scorecard

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review analyzes the healthcare landscape near Chambersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17238), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, access to specialists, and the availability of innovative treatments. We'll examine flagship hospitals, their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

**Defining the Scope:**

This review primarily considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Chambersburg, PA. The focus is on institutions offering comprehensive lung cancer care, including diagnosis, staging, treatment (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy), and supportive services. We will prioritize data from publicly available sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable healthcare databases. Please note that this is a snapshot in time and hospital data can change.

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

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, stands out as a major regional player. This hospital is roughly an hour's drive from Chambersburg. Hershey Medical Center is a large, academic medical center and a Level I trauma center. It is a teaching hospital, which often translates to access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators:**

Hershey Medical Center consistently receives a strong CMS star rating. While the exact rating fluctuates, it typically ranks among the higher-performing hospitals in the region. CMS star ratings are based on a range of quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience. Hershey Medical Center's strong performance in these areas indicates a commitment to providing high-quality care.

**Lung Cancer Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Hershey Medical Center boasts a dedicated cancer institute, often featuring a multidisciplinary team approach to lung cancer care. This means patients benefit from the expertise of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively. They will typically have a thoracic surgery program. The hospital likely offers advanced diagnostic capabilities, including advanced imaging (PET/CT scans) and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for any patient, especially those experiencing symptoms that may indicate lung cancer. While specific ER wait times can fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center, as a large facility, often has moderate wait times. Information on real-time wait times is usually available on the hospital's website or through online platforms like Google.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Hershey Medical Center has invested significantly in telehealth services. Telehealth offers patients remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those who have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel.

**Other Considerations for Hershey Medical Center:**

Being a large, academic medical center means Hershey Medical Center is often at the forefront of clinical trials. This provides patients with access to the latest treatments and research breakthroughs. However, large hospitals can sometimes feel impersonal. Patients should be prepared to navigate a complex system and may need to advocate for their specific needs.

**Nearby Option: UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, PA, offers another viable option for lung cancer care, approximately an hour and a half from Chambersburg. This hospital is part of the larger UPMC network, known for its integrated healthcare system.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators:**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg's CMS star rating is generally good. It consistently performs well on key quality indicators, reflecting a commitment to patient safety and positive outcomes.

**Lung Cancer Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg usually has a comprehensive cancer program, often including a dedicated lung cancer center. Patients can expect access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The hospital will offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care:**

ER wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg can vary. Information on current wait times is usually available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

UPMC, as a large healthcare system, has invested in telehealth services. Patients can often access virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring programs.

**Other Considerations for UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:**

Being part of a larger network can offer advantages, such as streamlined care coordination and access to a broader range of specialists. However, patients should be aware of potential network restrictions and insurance considerations.

**Smaller, Local Options:**

While not flagship hospitals, local hospitals in the Chambersburg area may offer some level of lung cancer care. However, these facilities may not have the same depth of resources or access to specialized expertise as the larger regional hospitals. These smaller hospitals may collaborate with the larger facilities for referrals or consultations.

**Cumberland Valley Breast Care Alliance**

The Cumberland Valley Breast Care Alliance is located in Chambersburg. While its primary focus is on breast care, it can be a resource for cancer support services, education, and potentially, referrals to specialists for lung cancer.

**Evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score": Key Factors**

To create a "Lung Cancer Score," several factors are considered:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher star rating generally indicates better overall quality of care.
* **Specialty Center Designation:** Dedicated cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams are crucial.
* **Access to Specialists:** Availability of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to advanced imaging and staging techniques.
* **Treatment Options:** Availability of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials offers access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are desirable, especially for patients with urgent needs.
* **Telehealth Services:** Availability of telehealth improves access and convenience.
* **Patient Experience:** Hospital reviews and patient satisfaction scores.

**Putting it All Together: Making Your Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage.

* **Hershey Medical Center:** A strong contender, especially for patients seeking access to cutting-edge research and a wide range of specialists.
* **UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg:** A good option, particularly for those seeking an integrated healthcare system.
* **Local Hospitals:** May be suitable for basic care or initial assessments, but often require referrals to larger centers for advanced treatment.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Research Your Insurance:** Confirm which hospitals are in your insurance network.
2. **Consult Your Primary Care Physician:** Seek a referral to a pulmonologist or oncologist.
3. **Gather Information:** Visit hospital websites, review patient testimonials, and compare treatment options.
4. **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about the hospital's lung cancer program, the experience of the medical team, and the availability of support services.
5. **Consider Travel:** Be prepared to travel to a larger regional hospital for the best possible care.

This review provides a starting point for your research. The best hospital for you will depend on your individual circumstances. Thoroughly research your options and make an informed decision in consultation with your healthcare providers.