17322, Felton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Hanover, PA (ZIP Code 17322): A Deep Dive

Finding the best lung cancer care requires careful consideration of several factors, from hospital quality to specialized services. This review focuses on hospitals accessible to residents of Hanover, PA (ZIP Code 17322), providing a detailed look at their capabilities and performance metrics. While proximity is a key factor, the quality of care should always be prioritized.

**York Hospital (York, PA): A Local Anchor**

York Hospital, located in York, PA, is a significant healthcare provider for the region. It's a comprehensive facility with a robust oncology program. York Hospital is a teaching hospital and is part of WellSpan Health.

York Hospital has a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance in areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

The hospital’s cancer program includes a dedicated lung cancer team comprising medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists. They offer a range of diagnostic and treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions.

York Hospital's ER wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room. This is especially important if you are experiencing symptoms that might indicate a lung cancer-related emergency.

Telehealth services are available at York Hospital, providing patients with convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those who have mobility challenges. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual consultations for oncology patients, are not readily available publicly.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA): A Regional Powerhouse**

Approximately an hour and a half drive from Hanover, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA, is a nationally recognized medical center. It is a major referral center for complex medical cases and often attracts patients from a wide geographic area.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a four-star CMS rating, reflecting its strong performance in various quality metrics. This suggests a higher level of care compared to York Hospital.

The hospital's Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists. The hospital is known for its advanced treatment options, including clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies.

The Cancer Institute at Hershey Medical Center has a strong focus on research, which often translates into access to the latest treatment advancements. They offer advanced imaging techniques, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and targeted therapies.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center can vary, especially during peak hours. It's recommended to check the current wait times online or by phone before visiting the emergency room.

Telehealth services are extensively used at Hershey Medical Center. They offer a wide range of virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, including those for oncology patients. Specific data on telehealth utilization for lung cancer patients isn't readily available, but the hospital is committed to expanding its telehealth offerings.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD): A Destination for Specialized Care**

While further afield (approximately a two-hour drive), Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, is a world-renowned medical institution. It is frequently ranked among the top hospitals in the United States and is a destination for patients seeking specialized care.

Johns Hopkins Hospital has a five-star CMS rating, the highest possible rating. This reflects its exceptional performance in various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins offers a highly specialized lung cancer program. Their team of experts is comprised of leading thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists.

Johns Hopkins is known for its innovative treatment approaches, including advanced surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They are also at the forefront of lung cancer research, providing patients with access to cutting-edge clinical trials.

ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can fluctuate, but the hospital strives to provide timely care. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the emergency room.

Johns Hopkins offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. They are committed to expanding their telehealth offerings to improve patient access to care. Specific data on telehealth utilization for lung cancer patients isn't readily available, but the hospital is a leader in telehealth innovation.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD): Another Baltimore Option**

Another option in Baltimore, the University of Maryland Medical Center, is approximately a two-hour drive from Hanover. It's a large academic medical center offering a wide range of services.

The University of Maryland Medical Center has a three-star CMS rating.

The hospital's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center provides lung cancer care. Their multidisciplinary team includes thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

The University of Maryland Medical Center is known for its research activities and its commitment to providing advanced cancer care.

ER wait times at the University of Maryland Medical Center can vary. It's recommended to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the emergency room.

Telehealth services are available at the University of Maryland Medical Center, providing patients with access to virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific telehealth statistics for oncology patients are not readily available.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer care, several factors should be considered. The stage and type of lung cancer, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences all play a role.

**Proximity and Convenience:** While proximity is important, it shouldn't be the only factor. Consider the travel time, ease of access, and availability of support services near the hospital.

**Hospital Quality and Reputation:** Research the hospital's CMS star rating, read patient reviews, and check for accreditations from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC).

**Specialized Services:** Look for hospitals with a dedicated lung cancer program, a multidisciplinary team of specialists, and access to advanced treatment options, including clinical trials.

**Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the physicians who will be involved in your care. Consider seeking a second opinion from a specialist at a different hospital.

**Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.

**Telehealth Availability:** Consider the availability of telehealth services for consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be especially beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital.

**Financial Considerations:** Verify insurance coverage and understand the costs associated with treatment.

**Making an Informed Decision**

The best hospital for lung cancer care is the one that best meets your individual needs. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, you can make an informed decision and receive the best possible care. Consult with your primary care physician and a pulmonologist to discuss your options and develop a personalized treatment plan. Visiting the hospitals' websites and contacting their patient services departments can provide additional information and help you make the right choice.