17256, Shady Grove, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17256, Shady Grove, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Shadow of South Mountain: A Review for ZIP Code 17256

Residents of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding ZIP code 17256, face a critical need for access to high-quality healthcare, especially when confronting a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer. This review delves into the landscape of lung cancer care available in the region, focusing on the hospitals closest to the area and evaluating their strengths and weaknesses. The goal is to provide a clear, fact-based assessment to aid informed decision-making during a challenging time.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of Shippensburg offers a limited, yet important, set of healthcare options. The closest hospitals are the most crucial starting points. These facilities serve as the primary gateways for diagnosis, initial treatment, and referral to more specialized centers.

**UPMC Carlisle:**

Located approximately 20 miles from Shippensburg, UPMC Carlisle is a significant player in the regional healthcare ecosystem. While it doesn't have a dedicated, freestanding cancer center, UPMC Carlisle offers comprehensive cancer care services within its existing structure. They provide diagnostic imaging, including CT scans and PET scans, essential for lung cancer detection and staging. They also offer chemotherapy and radiation therapy services.

UPMC Carlisle's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a key indicator of overall hospital quality. As of the latest data available, it is crucial to check the most recent CMS star rating for UPMC Carlisle. These ratings, which can fluctuate, offer a snapshot of a hospital's performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates.

ER wait times are another crucial consideration. UPMC Carlisle’s ER wait times, which can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week, are a factor in accessibility. Patients facing potential lung cancer complications, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, need prompt attention. The hospital's website or online resources often provide the most up-to-date information on average ER wait times.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, situated roughly 15 miles from Shippensburg, is another critical option. This hospital provides a range of cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Like UPMC Carlisle, it is vital to review WellSpan Chambersburg's current CMS star rating to understand its overall performance.

The hospital's oncology department is a key focus. The quality of the oncology team, including the experience and expertise of the oncologists, pulmonologists, and supporting staff, is paramount. Patients should inquire about the hospital's multidisciplinary approach, which brings together various specialists to collaborate on treatment plans.

ER wait times at WellSpan Chambersburg are another factor. Access to timely emergency care is vital for managing symptoms and complications related to lung cancer.

**Beyond the Immediate Radius: Expanding the Search**

While UPMC Carlisle and WellSpan Chambersburg are the closest options, patients in the 17256 ZIP code should consider hospitals further afield, especially for advanced treatment and specialized care. The travel distance, while potentially inconvenient, can be a worthwhile investment for accessing superior resources.

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

Located approximately 60 miles from Shippensburg, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major regional referral center. It boasts a comprehensive cancer institute, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services. This includes advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials.

Hershey Medical Center often has a higher CMS star rating than the closer hospitals, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. It's a good idea to verify the most current rating.

The hospital's lung cancer program is a significant draw. Patients can benefit from the expertise of specialized pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists. The availability of cutting-edge treatments, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, is also a major advantage.

**Johns Hopkins Medicine:**

While further afield (approximately 100 miles), Johns Hopkins Medicine is a world-renowned institution. The Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center offers unparalleled expertise in lung cancer treatment and research. Patients seeking the most advanced options, including complex surgical procedures and participation in clinical trials, may consider Johns Hopkins.

However, the travel distance and potential for higher costs must be weighed against the benefits of accessing such a prestigious institution.

**Specialty Centers and Resources:**

Beyond the main hospitals, several specialty centers and resources can enhance lung cancer care for patients in the 17256 ZIP code.

**Radiation Oncology Centers:**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer. Patients should investigate the availability of radiation oncology centers in the region. These centers offer advanced radiation techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which can target tumors with greater precision and minimize damage to healthy tissues.

**Pulmonary Specialists:**

The expertise of pulmonologists is crucial in diagnosing and managing lung cancer. Patients should seek out pulmonologists with specialized training in lung cancer.

**Support Groups and Patient Resources:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Patients should investigate the availability of support groups and patient resources in the area. These resources can provide valuable emotional support, practical advice, and connections with other patients and families.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth consultations with oncologists and other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring.

Telehealth stats, such as the number of telehealth appointments conducted and patient satisfaction scores, are good indicators of a hospital's commitment to this technology.

**Clinical Trials:**

Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments that may not be available through standard care. Patients should discuss the possibility of participating in clinical trials with their oncologists. The availability of clinical trials varies depending on the hospital and the stage of the cancer.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times are a vital consideration, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer. Long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting outcomes. Hospitals are required to report their ER wait times. Checking the hospital's website or contacting the hospital directly can provide the most up-to-date information on average ER wait times.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should discuss their insurance coverage with their healthcare providers and explore financial assistance programs if needed. Hospitals often have financial counselors who can help patients navigate the complexities of healthcare costs.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Choosing the right hospital and treatment plan for lung cancer is a complex process. Patients in the 17256 ZIP code should consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of travel.
* **Hospital Quality:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized lung cancer services, such as advanced imaging, surgery, and radiation therapy.
* **Oncologist Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support groups, patient resources, and financial assistance programs.
* **Telehealth Options:** The availability of telehealth consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Clinical Trials:** The availability of clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average wait times in the emergency room.

By carefully evaluating these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their lung cancer care and increase their chances of achieving the best possible outcomes. This review provides a starting point, but patients should always consult with their physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan.