17767, Salona, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17767, Salona, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Heart of Pennsylvania: A Hospital Scorecard Near ZIP Code 17767

The residents of ZIP code 17767, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, deserve access to top-tier healthcare, especially when facing the daunting diagnosis of lung cancer. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of the hospitals closest to this area, focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, including factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. This information is crucial for patients and their families navigating the complexities of this disease.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Key Considerations**

The hospitals considered in this review are those within a reasonable driving distance of ZIP code 17767, encompassing facilities in Williamsport, Lock Haven, and potentially extending to larger centers like Hershey. The evaluation emphasizes critical aspects of lung cancer care, including early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services. We will also consider the hospital's overall quality, as reflected in CMS star ratings, which provide a snapshot of a hospital's performance across various quality measures. Emergency room wait times, a crucial indicator of accessibility, are also examined. Finally, the availability and scope of specialized centers, telehealth services, and patient support programs will be assessed.

**UPMC Williamsport: A Local Anchor**

UPMC Williamsport, formerly known as the Williamsport Regional Medical Center, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the 17767 area. It is a major player in the local healthcare landscape. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's essential to check the latest data on the CMS website for the most up-to-date information. UPMC Williamsport's cancer care services are a significant component of its offerings. The hospital's cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET/CT scans, is crucial for accurate staging and monitoring of lung cancer.

ER wait times at UPMC Williamsport are a critical factor for patients experiencing symptoms. The hospital's performance in this area can vary, and patients should consult real-time data sources, like the hospital's website or third-party platforms, for the most current wait times. Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. UPMC Williamsport likely offers some telehealth options, which can enhance patient convenience and access to care. The hospital also provides patient support programs, including support groups, educational resources, and access to social workers, which are vital for emotional and practical support during treatment.

**Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital: Serving the Community**

Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, another key healthcare provider in the region, also plays a role in lung cancer care for the 17767 area. Similar to UPMC Williamsport, the hospital's CMS star rating should be reviewed on the official CMS website for the most current information. Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital provides a range of cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The availability of experienced pulmonologists and thoracic surgeons is crucial for accurate diagnosis and surgical interventions.

ER wait times at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital are another critical factor. Patients should consult real-time data sources for the most current wait times. Telehealth services are also likely available at Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital. Patient support programs, including support groups and access to social workers, are vital for emotional and practical support during treatment.

**Expanding the Search: Consideration of Larger Centers**

While local hospitals are essential, patients may need to consider larger, more specialized centers for advanced treatment options. This may involve traveling to hospitals outside of the immediate vicinity of 17767.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Flagship Option**

The Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, represents a significant option for lung cancer care. As a major academic medical center, it often provides access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a comprehensive range of specialized services. The Hershey Medical Center's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. Patients should check the latest CMS data.

The hospital's Cancer Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, with a team of experts specializing in various aspects of the disease. This includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other healthcare professionals. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging techniques and minimally invasive procedures, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging. The Hershey Medical Center often has access to clinical trials, offering patients the opportunity to participate in research and potentially benefit from innovative treatments.

ER wait times at the Hershey Medical Center can vary. Patients should consult real-time data sources for the most current wait times. The hospital's telehealth program is likely extensive, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. The Hershey Medical Center also provides robust patient support programs, including support groups, counseling services, and access to social workers and patient navigators.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Telehealth**

The presence of specialized lung cancer centers is a significant advantage. These centers often have dedicated teams of experts, advanced technologies, and access to clinical trials. The availability of a thoracic surgery program is critical for patients who may require surgical intervention. Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Telehealth can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, improving access to care and patient convenience.

**Evaluating the Landscape: A Summary of Key Factors**

When evaluating hospitals for lung cancer care, patients and their families should consider several key factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a general overview of a hospital's quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are crucial for timely access to care.
* **Specialized Centers:** Dedicated lung cancer centers often offer advanced treatment options and a multidisciplinary approach.
* **Expertise:** The experience and qualifications of the medical team, including oncologists, surgeons, and pulmonologists, are essential.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment modalities, such as PET/CT scans, minimally invasive surgery, and radiation therapy, is critical.
* **Clinical Trials:** The availability of clinical trials can offer patients access to innovative treatments.
* **Telehealth Services:** Telehealth can improve access to care and patient convenience.
* **Patient Support Programs:** Support groups, counseling services, and access to social workers are essential for emotional and practical support.

**Making Informed Decisions: The Patient's Role**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a significant decision. Patients and their families should actively research their options, gather information from multiple sources, and consult with their primary care physicians. They should ask questions about the hospital's experience, treatment options, and support services. Visiting the hospital, if possible, can provide a better understanding of the environment and the care team. By taking these steps, patients can make informed decisions and choose the hospital that best meets their individual needs. The information provided in this review serves as a starting point for that critical process.