17847, Milton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Heart of Pennsylvania: A Hospital Review Near Lewisburg (ZIP Code 17847)**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals readily accessible to residents near Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17847), evaluating their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. The information presented is based on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, ER wait times, and other performance indicators. It's essential to remember that this review is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your physician for a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan.

**Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA:**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a flagship facility within the Geisinger Health System, is a major player in the region. It's a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services, including advanced cancer care. Geisinger boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting its overall quality of care. While this rating provides a general overview, it's essential to delve deeper into its specific oncology offerings.

Geisinger's Cancer Institute is a significant asset. It offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient care. The institute is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including PET/CT scanners and sophisticated imaging technology crucial for accurate lung cancer staging. Geisinger also has a dedicated thoracic surgery program, offering surgical interventions for lung cancer.

Telehealth is a growing area for Geisinger. They have expanded their telehealth capabilities, providing remote consultations and follow-up appointments, potentially easing the burden of travel for patients in rural areas. However, specific telehealth statistics for lung cancer patients are not readily available in public reports.

ER wait times at Geisinger can fluctuate. While not a direct indicator of lung cancer care, longer wait times can sometimes reflect overall hospital capacity. It's advisable to check current wait times on their website or through local resources before heading to the ER.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center, Williamsport, PA:**

Located approximately an hour's drive from Lewisburg, UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center is another option for lung cancer care. While smaller than Geisinger, it's still a significant regional hospital. The hospital currently holds a 3-star CMS rating.

UPMC Susquehanna offers oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. They have a cancer center that provides comprehensive care, including support groups and patient navigation services. However, the specific details regarding their lung cancer program, such as the availability of advanced surgical techniques or clinical trials, may require direct inquiry.

Telehealth services are also available at UPMC Susquehanna, but again, specific data related to lung cancer patients is not easily accessible. The hospital's website and patient portals should provide information on telehealth offerings.

ER wait times at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport can vary. Checking current wait times is recommended before visiting the emergency department.

**Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, PA:**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located directly within the 17847 ZIP code, offers a more local option. It's a community hospital, and while it may not have the extensive resources of larger regional medical centers, it provides essential healthcare services. Evangelical has a 4-star CMS rating.

Evangelical offers cancer care services, including chemotherapy and supportive care. They collaborate with specialists from other institutions, potentially allowing patients to receive some treatments closer to home. However, for complex lung cancer cases, patients may need to be referred to larger facilities like Geisinger or UPMC.

Telehealth services are available at Evangelical, but specific details regarding their lung cancer-related telehealth offerings are not readily available.

ER wait times at Evangelical are generally shorter than at larger hospitals. However, this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Other Considerations and Specialty Centers:**

Beyond the primary hospitals, several factors influence lung cancer care.

* **Radiation Oncology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is crucial. Geisinger and UPMC Susquehanna are likely to offer these advanced modalities.
* **Surgical Expertise:** Thoracic surgeons specializing in lung cancer surgery are essential. Evaluate the experience and qualifications of the surgeons at each hospital.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Research the availability of clinical trials at each facility.
* **Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment involves more than just medical interventions. Look for hospitals with robust support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Proximity and Transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and ease of access. Transportation options can be a significant factor, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Specifics on Geisinger’s Lung Cancer Program:**

Geisinger's Lung Cancer Program is a focal point. They have a dedicated multidisciplinary team that meets regularly to discuss patient cases and develop individualized treatment plans. They are known for their advanced imaging capabilities, which are critical for accurate diagnosis and staging. Geisinger also actively participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to novel therapies. The Cancer Institute has a strong focus on patient education and support, providing resources to help patients navigate their journey.

**Telehealth Stats and Availability:**

While specific telehealth statistics for lung cancer patients are not always publicly available, Geisinger has made significant investments in telehealth. They offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. UPMC Susquehanna also offers telehealth options, but the extent of their lung cancer-specific telehealth services may require direct inquiry. Evangelical Community Hospital also provides telehealth services.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times can be a useful indicator of hospital capacity. Geisinger Medical Center typically has longer ER wait times compared to Evangelical Community Hospital. UPMC Susquehanna's wait times fall somewhere in between. It's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital websites or through local resources before visiting the ER.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. Geisinger and Evangelical Community Hospital have 4-star ratings, indicating a good level of overall care. UPMC Susquehanna has a 3-star rating. However, these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle. It's essential to consider other factors, such as the hospital's specific lung cancer program, the expertise of the medical team, and the availability of advanced treatments.

**Key Takeaways for Patients Near Lewisburg:**

* **Geisinger Medical Center** is a strong contender, offering comprehensive cancer care, advanced technology, and a multidisciplinary approach.
* **UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport** provides a regional option with oncology services.
* **Evangelical Community Hospital** offers local access to cancer care and supportive services.
* **Consider specialty centers:** Evaluate the availability of radiation oncology, surgical expertise, and clinical trials.
* **Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options to reduce travel burden.
* **ER wait times:** Check current wait times before visiting the emergency room.
* **Consult with your physician:** This review is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Discuss your specific needs and preferences with your doctor to determine the best hospital for your care.

This review provides a starting point for patients near Lewisburg seeking lung cancer care. Thorough research, consultation with your physician, and consideration of your individual needs are crucial in making an informed decision. Remember to ask specific questions about the hospital's lung cancer program, the experience of the medical team, and the availability of supportive services.