17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Shippensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17239): A Deep Dive**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the best possible care, close to home, is paramount. This review examines hospitals near Shippensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17239), focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, accessibility, and overall quality of care. The information presented is current as of October 26, 2023, and relies on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable healthcare databases.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players and Considerations**

The immediate vicinity of Shippensburg doesn't boast a major, nationally-renowned cancer center. However, several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer comprehensive cancer services, including lung cancer treatment. Proximity to a larger city like Harrisburg or Hershey significantly expands the options. Key factors to consider include: the hospital's cancer center accreditation (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer), the availability of specialized lung cancer teams (oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, nurses, and support staff), access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (e.g., PET/CT scans, minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy), and participation in clinical trials.

**UPMC Carlisle: A Local Option**

UPMC Carlisle, located in Carlisle, PA, is a primary care option for residents near Shippensburg. While it may not be a flagship cancer center, UPMC Carlisle offers cancer services, including medical oncology and radiation oncology. Their website details a multidisciplinary approach, suggesting a team-based approach to care. CMS data for UPMC Carlisle shows a 3-star rating. This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on factors like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. Emergency room wait times can fluctuate; checking real-time wait times on the UPMC website or a third-party app like ER Wait Time is recommended before heading to the ER. Telehealth options may be available; patients should inquire directly with the hospital about virtual consultations for oncology appointments.

**Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center: Expanding Options**

Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, PA, is another hospital within a reasonable driving distance. Holy Spirit offers a comprehensive cancer program, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They are accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer. Holy Spirit's cancer services are integrated with the larger Penn State Health system, which may provide access to a broader range of specialists and resources. Holy Spirit Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. Emergency room wait times vary, so checking online resources before arrival is advisable. Telehealth services are likely available, given Penn State Health's broader telehealth initiatives. Patients should confirm the availability of virtual appointments with their oncology team.

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

For those willing to travel a bit further, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, PA, is a flagship facility. Hershey Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services. They are accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer and are a major research and teaching hospital. Hershey Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 4 stars, reflecting a higher overall quality of care compared to the previously mentioned hospitals. Hershey Medical Center’s cancer center likely offers access to cutting-edge technologies, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy. They also participate in numerous clinical trials, offering patients access to novel therapies. Emergency room wait times can be longer at a larger hospital; checking online resources before arrival is crucial. Penn State Health has a robust telehealth program, and virtual consultations with oncology specialists are likely available.

**UPMC Harrisburg: Another Strong Contender**

UPMC Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, PA, is another major hospital option. UPMC Harrisburg offers comprehensive cancer services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They are accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer. UPMC Harrisburg is part of the larger UPMC system, potentially providing access to a wider network of specialists and resources. UPMC Harrisburg has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. Emergency room wait times can fluctuate, so checking real-time wait times on the UPMC website or a third-party app is recommended. Telehealth options are likely available; patients should inquire directly with the hospital about virtual consultations for oncology appointments.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Digging Deeper**

Beyond general cancer services, consider hospitals with specialized lung cancer programs. These programs often involve multidisciplinary teams, dedicated to lung cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment. Look for hospitals that offer:

* **Thoracic Surgery:** Expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques (e.g., video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery – VATS) for lung cancer removal.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to experienced medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), to precisely target tumors.
* **Pulmonology:** Expertise in diagnosing and staging lung cancer, including bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS).
* **Support Services:** Access to patient navigators, social workers, support groups, and palliative care services to address the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients and their families.

**Telehealth and Accessibility: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth plays an increasingly important role in cancer care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and support services without requiring travel. Check with each hospital about its telehealth capabilities, including:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Can you have initial consultations and follow-up appointments with your oncologist via video?
* **Remote Monitoring:** Does the hospital offer remote monitoring of your symptoms and side effects?
* **Support Groups:** Are there virtual support groups for lung cancer patients?

Accessibility is also crucial. Consider the hospital's location, parking, and ease of navigation. Inquire about transportation assistance programs if needed.

**Clinical Trials: Exploring Treatment Options**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge therapies and contribute to advancements in lung cancer treatment. Inquire with each hospital about their clinical trial offerings. Major cancer centers, like Hershey Medical Center, are more likely to have a robust clinical trial program.

**ER Wait Times: Planning for Emergencies**

Emergency room wait times can vary significantly, especially at larger hospitals. Check online resources (hospital websites, third-party apps) for real-time wait times before heading to the ER. Consider the severity of your symptoms and whether you need immediate medical attention.

**Making the Choice: A Personalized Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Your Diagnosis and Stage:** The complexity of your case will influence the level of expertise required.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** How far are you willing to travel? Consider travel time, parking, and transportation options.
* **Hospital Reputation and Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.
* **Specialist Expertise:** Research the experience and credentials of the oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists on the care team.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Read online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the hospital's culture and quality of care.
* **Your Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like communication style, support services, and overall comfort level.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Decisions**

The hospitals near Shippensburg, PA, offer a range of options for lung cancer treatment. UPMC Carlisle, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, UPMC Harrisburg, and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center are all viable choices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. By carefully evaluating these factors and consulting with your primary care physician and oncologist, you can make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best meets your individual needs and provides the best possible chance for successful treatment and improved quality of life. Remember to always verify information directly with the hospitals, as services and offerings can change.