18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Dallas, PA (ZIP Code 18617)**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the best possible care close to home is crucial. This review examines hospitals near Dallas, PA (ZIP code 18617), focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, including factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. This is not medical advice; consult your physician for personalized recommendations.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Region**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Dallas, PA, is dominated by a few key players. Proximity to larger cities like Scranton and Wilkes-Barre expands the available options. The quality of care varies, and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each institution is essential for informed decision-making.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA)**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, located in Wilkes-Barre, is a major regional hospital. It's a flagship facility within the Geisinger Health System, a large integrated healthcare network. The hospital has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating is average, it reflects a complex assessment of various quality metrics.

Geisinger Wyoming Valley has a dedicated cancer institute. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists. This collaborative approach is a key factor in providing comprehensive care.

The hospital's emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to understand that ERs can be busy, and wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and day of the week. Information on ER wait times is often available on the hospital's website or through online tools.

Geisinger is a leader in telehealth. They offer various telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, providing convenient access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA)**

Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton, PA, is another option for patients in the Dallas area. This hospital is part of the Commonwealth Health network. The hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.

Moses Taylor Hospital has a cancer center that provides lung cancer treatment. They offer a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The hospital's surgical capabilities are a critical aspect of lung cancer care, as surgery is often a primary treatment option.

ER wait times are a crucial factor in choosing a hospital. Moses Taylor Hospital's ER wait times can vary; it's important to check current wait times before visiting the ER.

Telehealth services are also offered at Moses Taylor Hospital. These services can provide patients with easier access to specialists and follow-up care.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton (Scranton, PA)**

Regional Hospital of Scranton is another hospital in Scranton that serves the Dallas, PA, area. The hospital has a 2-star rating from CMS.

Regional Hospital of Scranton offers cancer care services, including treatment for lung cancer. Patients should inquire about the specific lung cancer services offered and the expertise of the medical team.

ER wait times are a key consideration. Patients should check current ER wait times before visiting the hospital.

Telehealth services may be available at Regional Hospital of Scranton. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer care.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations**

Beyond the major hospitals, smaller community hospitals and outpatient clinics may offer certain services, such as diagnostic imaging or supportive care. It's important to consider these options as part of a comprehensive care plan.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

When evaluating hospitals, consider the presence of specialized lung cancer centers or programs. These centers often have dedicated teams of specialists, access to advanced technologies, and participation in clinical trials. Ask about the hospital's accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons.

**Surgical Capabilities**

Thoracic surgery is often a critical component of lung cancer treatment. Research the hospital's thoracic surgery department, including the number of board-certified thoracic surgeons, their experience, and the types of surgical procedures they perform (e.g., minimally invasive techniques like VATS).

**Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy is another essential treatment modality. Assess the hospital's radiation oncology department, including the availability of advanced technologies like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and the expertise of the radiation oncologists.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy**

Medical oncologists are responsible for chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. Investigate the hospital's medical oncology department, including the number of medical oncologists, their experience, and the types of chemotherapy regimens they offer.

**Pulmonology and Respiratory Care**

Pulmonologists play a vital role in diagnosing and managing lung cancer. Evaluate the hospital's pulmonology department, including the availability of advanced diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy and the expertise of the pulmonologists.

**Clinical Trials**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the hospital's involvement in lung cancer clinical trials.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a crucial factor. Research patient reviews and ratings. Consider the availability of support services, such as:

* **Patient navigators:** These individuals help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources.
* **Support groups:** These groups provide emotional support and a sense of community.
* **Counseling services:** These services can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
* **Palliative care:** This specialized care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, and it offers several benefits for lung cancer patients. Telehealth can provide:

* **Convenient access to specialists:** Patients can consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel.
* **Remote monitoring:** Doctors can monitor patients' conditions remotely, allowing for early intervention.
* **Follow-up appointments:** Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, reducing the burden on patients.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can significantly impact a patient's experience. Long wait times can be stressful and delay treatment. Check current ER wait times before visiting the hospital.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

The CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. However, these ratings are just one factor to consider. It's important to research other factors, such as patient reviews and the hospital's specific lung cancer services.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Consider all the factors discussed in this review, including:

* **The hospital's lung cancer services:** Does the hospital offer a comprehensive range of services, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy?
* **The expertise of the medical team:** Does the hospital have experienced specialists in lung cancer treatment?
* **The hospital's patient experience:** What are the patient reviews and ratings?
* **The availability of telehealth services:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services for lung cancer patients?
* **ER wait times:** What are the current ER wait times?
* **CMS star ratings:** What is the hospital's CMS star rating?

Consult with your primary care physician and/or oncologist to discuss your specific needs and preferences. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history and the stage of your cancer.

**Conclusion**

The best hospital for lung cancer treatment near Dallas, PA (ZIP code 18617), will depend on individual needs and preferences. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital are major players in the region, offering comprehensive cancer care. However, Regional Hospital of Scranton and other smaller facilities may provide specific services. Careful research, consultation with healthcare professionals, and consideration of all the factors discussed in this review will help you make an informed decision and receive the best possible care. Remember to verify all information, including ER wait times and telehealth availability, directly with the hospitals.