17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 17350: A Detailed Review

The residents of Spring Grove, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas encompassed by ZIP code 17350, have a range of healthcare options available to them, including those for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a detailed look at the hospitals in the region, focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer care, including factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. The aim is to equip individuals with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Proximity and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of Spring Grove doesn't boast a large concentration of major hospitals. However, several prominent medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance, offering comprehensive cancer care. These facilities become crucial for those seeking advanced lung cancer treatment. The hospitals examined here offer a spectrum of services, from initial diagnosis and staging to complex surgical interventions, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

**York Hospital: A Local Anchor**

York Hospital, located in York, Pennsylvania, is a primary healthcare provider for the region. While it might not be a dedicated cancer center, it provides essential services, including diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and X-rays, which are crucial for the initial detection and staging of lung cancer. York Hospital's emergency room, a vital access point for urgent care, has reported average wait times that fluctuate, but are generally in line with national averages. CMS data shows York Hospital with a 3-star rating, reflecting its overall quality of care. This rating is a helpful indicator, but it's important to remember that it's a broad measure and doesn't specifically reflect the quality of lung cancer care.

York Hospital's oncology department offers chemotherapy and supportive care services. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, with oncologists, nurses, and support staff working together. The hospital is also connected to regional cancer networks, which can provide access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options. Telehealth services are available at York Hospital, offering consultations and follow-up appointments, especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Approximately an hour's drive from Spring Grove, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a major referral center for complex medical cases, including lung cancer. Hershey Medical Center is a nationally recognized facility, and its cancer institute offers comprehensive lung cancer care. It is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a distinction that signifies a commitment to research, innovation, and high-quality patient care.

The Hershey Cancer Institute boasts a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers. They offer state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging techniques like PET scans and sophisticated bronchoscopy procedures. Hershey Medical Center provides a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgical resection, minimally invasive approaches like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), radiation therapy (including stereotactic body radiation therapy), chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

The hospital’s ER wait times can vary, reflecting the high volume of patients it serves. The Hershey Medical Center has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a strong overall performance in patient care. The hospital's commitment to research translates into access to clinical trials, offering patients opportunities to benefit from cutting-edge treatments. Telehealth services are extensively used, providing remote consultations, follow-up care, and access to specialists for patients in the surrounding areas.

**University of Maryland Medical Center: Expanding the Horizon**

The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, is a more distant option, approximately a two-hour drive from Spring Grove. However, it is a major academic medical center with a comprehensive cancer center. The University of Maryland Medical Center provides a full range of lung cancer services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical expertise, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

The hospital’s lung cancer program is staffed by experienced specialists who are experts in their fields. The hospital also has a strong research focus, providing access to clinical trials and innovative treatment options. The hospital’s ER wait times are subject to the high demand of a large urban center, but the hospital is equipped to handle a high volume of patients. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Telehealth services are available, offering consultations and follow-up appointments to patients in the region.

**WellSpan Health: A Networked Approach**

WellSpan Health, with several hospitals in the region, offers a network of care that can be beneficial for lung cancer patients. WellSpan York Hospital, as mentioned above, is part of this network. The WellSpan system also includes WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital, which is closer to Spring Grove than York Hospital. While Gettysburg Hospital might not have the same level of specialized cancer services as larger facilities, it can provide initial diagnostic tests and facilitate referrals to specialists within the WellSpan network.

The WellSpan network promotes collaboration among its physicians, ensuring that patients receive coordinated care. This can be particularly helpful for lung cancer patients, who often require multiple specialists. The WellSpan network has also been investing in telehealth services, expanding access to care for patients in rural areas.

**Factors to Consider in Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for lung cancer care, several factors should be considered. The experience and expertise of the medical team are paramount. Research the physicians' credentials, experience, and areas of specialization. Consider the hospital's access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, including surgical techniques, radiation therapy modalities, and the availability of clinical trials.

The hospital's multidisciplinary approach is crucial. Lung cancer care often involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers. A well-coordinated team can provide comprehensive care.

The hospital's commitment to research is also important. Research leads to advances in treatment and can provide patients with access to innovative therapies. Consider the hospital's involvement in clinical trials and its research publications.

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. While not a definitive measure, patient feedback can help gauge the quality of care and the overall experience at a particular hospital.

**Telehealth and Lung Cancer Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, and it offers significant benefits for lung cancer patients. Telehealth allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those living in rural areas or with mobility issues. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care services.

**Conclusion**

Residents of the 17350 ZIP code have a range of options for lung cancer care. While the immediate area may not have a dedicated cancer center, several excellent hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance. York Hospital provides local access to essential services. Hershey Medical Center offers comprehensive, advanced care. The University of Maryland Medical Center provides another option for comprehensive care. The WellSpan network offers a collaborative approach to care. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this review, individuals can make informed decisions about their lung cancer care and choose the hospital that best meets their needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to specialists for personalized guidance.