17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17948

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right hospital, with the best specialists and resources, is critical. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 17948, focusing on key metrics for lung cancer care. This area, encompassing Pottsville, Pennsylvania, and surrounding communities, presents a landscape of healthcare options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Before diving into specific hospitals, it's crucial to understand the factors that influence lung cancer care quality. These include: the expertise of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists; access to advanced diagnostic tools like PET scans and bronchoscopy; availability of cutting-edge treatments such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy; and the hospital's overall commitment to patient-centered care. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, while not a perfect measure, offer a general indication of hospital quality based on various performance indicators. Emergency room (ER) wait times can also be a proxy for overall hospital efficiency. Telehealth services are increasingly important for follow-up care and consultations.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

The flagship hospitals in the region, those with the broadest range of services and typically higher CMS star ratings, deserve particular attention.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA):** Located approximately 60 miles from ZIP code 17948, Geisinger Medical Center is a major healthcare provider. While not directly within the immediate vicinity, its reputation warrants consideration. Geisinger is known for its integrated healthcare system and its focus on value-based care. The hospital’s CMS star rating is a respectable 4 stars, indicating above-average performance. Geisinger’s cancer institute boasts a multidisciplinary team specializing in lung cancer. They offer a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment options, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth, with a robust program offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas. ER wait times at Geisinger Medical Center typically fall within the national average, usually around 30-45 minutes.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest (Allentown, PA):** Situated roughly 70 miles from ZIP code 17948, Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest is another major player in the region. It is a large, comprehensive hospital system with a strong cancer program. Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest holds a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital’s cancer center offers a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care, featuring a team of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They provide advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities, including robotic-assisted surgery, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and access to clinical trials. Lehigh Valley Health Network has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, providing virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. ER wait times at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest can vary, but generally, patients can expect to wait between 45 minutes to an hour.

**Local Options: Examining Proximity and Services**

Closer to ZIP code 17948, several hospitals provide healthcare services, offering a more convenient option for local residents. However, it is important to note that these hospitals may have fewer specialized resources compared to the flagship hospitals.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Miners Campus (Coaldale, PA):** Located approximately 20 miles from ZIP code 17948, St. Luke's Hospital–Miners Campus is a community hospital providing a range of services. It is part of the larger St. Luke's University Health Network. While it may not have the same breadth of services as the larger hospitals, it offers convenient access to care for residents in the immediate area. The CMS star rating is not available. St. Luke's Miners Campus provides basic cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Patients may be referred to other hospitals within the St. Luke's network for more specialized procedures or consultations. ER wait times at St. Luke's Miners Campus tend to be shorter than those at larger hospitals, often averaging under 30 minutes.

**Schuylkill Medical Center–East Norwegian Street Campus (Pottsville, PA):** This hospital, located in Pottsville, is very close to the ZIP code 17948. It is part of the Tower Health system. The CMS star rating is not available. Schuylkill Medical Center offers cancer services, including chemotherapy and supportive care. However, patients with complex lung cancer cases may need to be referred to larger hospitals with specialized expertise. ER wait times at Schuylkill Medical Center are typically around 30-45 minutes.

**Evaluating Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general hospital ratings, it is essential to assess the specific lung cancer programs offered. Look for hospitals with multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses. Consider the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET/CT scans and bronchoscopy with endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS). Access to clinical trials is also a significant advantage, providing patients with the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments.

**Telehealth: A Growing Component of Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer patients greater convenience and reduce travel burdens. When evaluating hospitals, inquire about their telehealth capabilities, including the types of services offered and the technology used.

**ER Wait Times: A Window into Efficiency**

ER wait times can provide insights into a hospital's efficiency and patient flow. Shorter wait times often indicate a more streamlined process. However, it's crucial to remember that ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. It requires careful consideration of several factors, including the hospital's reputation, the expertise of its specialists, the availability of advanced treatments, and the convenience of its location. Patients should discuss their options with their primary care physicians, seek referrals to specialists, and research the hospitals' websites and patient reviews.

**Important Disclaimer:** This review provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Hospital ratings and wait times are subject to change. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of treatment.