17370, York Haven, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17370, York Haven, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17370 (York, PA)

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer care is a complex undertaking. This review analyzes the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 17370 (York, Pennsylvania), focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich assessment to aid in informed decision-making for those facing this challenging diagnosis.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Accessibility**

York, PA, sits in a region with a mix of large, established healthcare systems and smaller community hospitals. Proximity to major metropolitan areas like Baltimore and Philadelphia expands the options, but travel time and accessibility are crucial considerations for patients undergoing treatment. The following analysis focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both local options and those offering specialized lung cancer services.

**WellSpan York Hospital: A Local Powerhouse**

WellSpan York Hospital, located directly within York, PA, is a central player in the local healthcare ecosystem. It's a large, acute care facility and a primary referral center for the surrounding counties. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it generally maintains a solid rating, reflecting its commitment to quality care. Prospective patients should verify the most current rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website (Medicare.gov).

York Hospital’s emergency room wait times are a critical factor. These fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources, such as hospital websites and third-party aggregators, provide insights into average wait times. It’s essential to check these regularly, as they can change.

WellSpan York Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. They have a dedicated cancer center, which often provides a more streamlined and patient-centered approach to treatment. This center is crucial for lung cancer patients, offering multidisciplinary teams that include pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care specialists. The hospital's telehealth capabilities are also important. WellSpan has been expanding its telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Details on the specific telehealth offerings, including the types of appointments available and the technologies used, can be found on the WellSpan Health website.

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

Approximately an hour's drive from York, PA, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major academic medical center. It is a flagship hospital with a reputation for advanced care and specialized services. Hershey Medical Center typically receives high CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. Again, it is critical to verify the current rating on the CMS website.

Hershey Medical Center’s ER wait times can be longer than those at smaller facilities due to its role as a regional referral center. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider the urgency of their situation when choosing this option.

The hospital's Cancer Institute is a significant asset for lung cancer patients. The Institute offers cutting-edge treatment options, including clinical trials, targeted therapies, and advanced surgical techniques. They have a dedicated thoracic oncology program with a team of specialists experienced in all aspects of lung cancer care. Hershey Medical Center also has robust telehealth programs, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources. Details on their telehealth services, including how to access them, are available on the Penn State Health website.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital: A National Beacon (Baltimore, MD)**

While further afield (approximately a 1.5-hour drive), Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, is a nationally renowned institution. It is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the United States and offers unparalleled expertise in lung cancer care. Johns Hopkins typically receives high CMS star ratings, although this should be verified on the CMS website.

The ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can be significant, reflecting its status as a major referral center. Patients should consider this when deciding whether to seek care there.

The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is a world-class facility. It offers access to the latest research, clinical trials, and innovative treatments for lung cancer. The hospital has a dedicated thoracic oncology program with a team of specialists who are experts in all aspects of lung cancer care. Johns Hopkins has a well-developed telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources. Information on these services can be found on the Johns Hopkins Medicine website.

**University of Maryland Medical Center: Another Baltimore Option**

The University of Maryland Medical Center, also in Baltimore, is another strong option for lung cancer care. It is a major academic medical center with a comprehensive cancer program. While the CMS star ratings should be verified on the CMS website, the University of Maryland Medical Center often performs well.

ER wait times at the University of Maryland Medical Center should be considered, as they can vary.

The hospital's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center provides a full range of lung cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The center has a dedicated thoracic oncology program with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The University of Maryland Medical Center also offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring. Details on these services can be found on the University of Maryland Medical System website.

**Smaller Community Hospitals: Local Options**

Several smaller community hospitals in the region may offer lung cancer screening and some initial treatment options. These hospitals, such as UPMC Hanover and Gettysburg Hospital (both within a reasonable driving distance of York), may be suitable for certain aspects of care, particularly for patients who prefer a more local setting. However, these hospitals may not have the same level of specialized expertise or access to advanced treatments as the larger academic medical centers. ER wait times and CMS star ratings should be reviewed on the CMS website and other sources.

**Key Considerations: Specialty Centers and Expertise**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer care, the presence of specialized centers and experienced medical professionals is crucial. Look for hospitals with dedicated thoracic oncology programs, multidisciplinary teams, and access to advanced treatment options, such as clinical trials and targeted therapies.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care, offering patients greater convenience and access to specialists. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth capabilities, including the types of services offered, the technologies used, and the ease of access.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Reality**

ER wait times are a practical consideration, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications. Researching average wait times at different hospitals can help patients make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Quality Indicator**

CMS star ratings provide a valuable, albeit simplified, measure of hospital quality. While these ratings should not be the sole factor in decision-making, they offer a useful starting point for evaluating hospitals.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and circumstances, including the stage of their cancer, their overall health, and their access to transportation. Consulting with their primary care physician, seeking second opinions, and researching the hospitals' websites are essential steps in the process.

**Conclusion: A Complex Choice**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 17370 offers a range of options for lung cancer care, from local hospitals to regional and national leaders. WellSpan York Hospital provides a strong local foundation, while Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the University of Maryland Medical Center offer specialized expertise and advanced treatment options. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for their specific needs. Always verify the most up-to-date information, including CMS star ratings and ER wait times, directly with the hospitals and the CMS website.