17253, Saltillo, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17253, Saltillo, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17253

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Accessing quality care near your home is crucial. This review examines hospitals in proximity to ZIP code 17253 (Waynesboro, Pennsylvania), focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, several factors are paramount. The availability of experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is essential. Access to advanced diagnostic tools like PET scans and bronchoscopy, as well as cutting-edge treatment options such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, are also critical. Furthermore, the hospital's commitment to clinical trials, which offer patients access to the latest advancements, should be considered. Finally, patient experience, reflected in factors like wait times and the availability of support services, plays a significant role in overall care.

**Focusing on Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

The hospitals discussed below are considered flagship institutions, often representing the highest levels of care in the region. Their performance in lung cancer treatment is scrutinized, considering publicly available data and specialized program offerings.

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

Located approximately 45 miles from Waynesboro, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major regional player. This hospital is a teaching hospital and a Level I trauma center. Hershey Medical Center boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting its overall quality of care. While this rating provides a general overview, it’s important to delve deeper into its lung cancer specific offerings.

Hershey Medical Center features a comprehensive cancer institute, including a dedicated lung cancer program. This program brings together a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They offer a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment services, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and access to clinical trials.

Emergency room wait times at Hershey Medical Center can fluctuate. It is crucial to check current wait times on the hospital’s website or through third-party sources like Google Maps or ER Wait Times. Telehealth services are also available, providing patients with convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for those living in more rural areas. Specific telehealth statistics related to lung cancer care are usually available on the hospital's website or through its cancer institute.

**2. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg (Harrisburg, PA)**

Approximately 60 miles east of Waynesboro, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg is another significant hospital in the region. This hospital, while not a university hospital, provides a wide range of services. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg currently holds a 3-star CMS rating.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg has a cancer center that offers lung cancer treatment options. The center provides access to a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, surgeons, and oncologists. They offer diagnostic services, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg can vary. Checking current wait times before arriving at the hospital is always recommended. Telehealth services are available, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up care remotely. Specific details regarding telehealth usage within the lung cancer program are usually available on the hospital’s website.

**3. WellSpan York Hospital (York, PA)**

Located roughly 45 miles east of Waynesboro, WellSpan York Hospital serves as a key healthcare provider in the region. This hospital does not have a CMS rating.

WellSpan York Hospital has a comprehensive cancer program with a dedicated lung cancer component. The program offers a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They provide diagnostic services, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Emergency room wait times at WellSpan York Hospital should be checked before visiting. Telehealth services are also available, providing patients with remote access to consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific details regarding telehealth utilization within the lung cancer program are usually available on the hospital’s website.

**4. Chambersburg Hospital (Chambersburg, PA)**

Located approximately 15 miles west of Waynesboro, Chambersburg Hospital is a closer option for residents of ZIP code 17253. This hospital does not have a CMS rating.

Chambersburg Hospital offers a cancer program that includes lung cancer treatment. The program provides access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer diagnostic services, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Emergency room wait times at Chambersburg Hospital should be checked before visiting. Telehealth services are also available, providing patients with remote access to consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific details regarding telehealth utilization within the lung cancer program are usually available on the hospital’s website.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Delving Deeper**

Beyond the general cancer programs, some hospitals may have specialized centers or programs that focus specifically on lung cancer. These centers often offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, as well as access to clinical trials.

* **Clinical Trials:** The availability of clinical trials is a critical factor. Clinical trials offer patients access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment, including new drugs and therapies. Hospitals with active research programs are more likely to offer these opportunities. Check the hospital’s website or consult with a specialist to determine the availability of clinical trials.

* **Minimally Invasive Surgery:** Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), offer patients smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. Look for hospitals that offer these advanced surgical options.

* **Radiation Therapy:** Advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), can precisely target tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Ensure the hospital offers these advanced radiation therapy options.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients living in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

* **Telehealth Availability:** Check the hospital's website or contact the cancer center to determine the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients. Inquire about the types of services offered, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational programs.

* **Technology Requirements:** Ensure you have the necessary technology, such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet, and a reliable internet connection to participate in telehealth appointments.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times can vary significantly depending on the hospital and the time of day. Long wait times can be stressful and potentially delay critical care.

* **Checking Wait Times:** Before visiting the emergency room, check the hospital's website, Google Maps, or ER Wait Times to get an estimate of current wait times.

* **Urgent vs. Emergency:** If you have a non-life-threatening condition, consider contacting your primary care physician or an urgent care center for faster treatment.

**Patient Experience: Beyond the Numbers**

While CMS star ratings and wait times provide valuable information, it's also essential to consider the patient experience.

* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews on websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews to gain insights into the experiences of other patients.

* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling.

* **Communication:** Assess the hospital's communication practices. Are doctors and nurses readily available to answer your questions and address your concerns?

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for your research, focusing on hospitals near ZIP code 17253. By considering factors such as CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and patient reviews, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or a specialist to discuss your specific situation and receive personalized recommendations.