18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Mountain Top, PA (18623): A Deep Dive**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of healthcare options near Mountain Top, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18623), focusing on key metrics for lung cancer treatment. We'll examine flagship hospitals, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to help you make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Mountain Top, PA, residents are primarily served by hospitals in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton metropolitan area. Proximity is crucial, especially during treatment. While smaller community hospitals exist, the more comprehensive cancer care often resides in larger, regional medical centers. This review will prioritize those facilities offering specialized lung cancer services.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Health System is a dominant healthcare provider in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Its flagship hospital, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, is approximately a 90-minute drive from Mountain Top. While not directly in the immediate vicinity, Geisinger's regional presence and comprehensive cancer services make it a critical consideration.

Geisinger Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a standard of care that meets federal benchmarks. The CMS star ratings are based on data collected from hospitals and are a valuable tool for comparing facilities.

Geisinger's Cancer Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and supportive care staff. This collaborative approach is essential for developing personalized treatment plans.

**Geisinger's Lung Cancer Services: Specifics**

Geisinger provides a full spectrum of lung cancer services. This includes advanced diagnostic imaging, such as PET/CT scans and minimally invasive biopsy techniques. They offer surgical options, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), which can lead to faster recovery times. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also available, along with access to clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments.

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Geisinger has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for certain oncology services. This can reduce travel burden and improve access to care, especially for patients living in more rural areas. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the percentage of oncology appointments conducted virtually, are not publicly available but can be inquired about directly with the hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially during a health crisis. Geisinger Medical Center's ER wait times fluctuate. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), can provide an estimate of average wait times. It is important to note that these are averages and can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the patient's condition. Patients should always call 911 or go to the nearest ER if they are experiencing a medical emergency.

**Other Hospitals in the Region: Exploring Alternatives**

While Geisinger is a major player, other hospitals in the region also offer cancer care. These may be closer to Mountain Top, making them a more convenient option for some patients.

**Commonwealth Health System: A Network of Options**

Commonwealth Health operates several hospitals in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area. These include Wilkes-Barre General Hospital and Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton. While they may not have the same level of specialized lung cancer services as Geisinger, they can provide initial diagnosis, staging, and some treatment options.

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Moses Taylor Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. These ratings indicate a similar level of overall quality to Geisinger Medical Center. However, it is important to consider the specific services offered and the expertise of the cancer care teams at each hospital.

**Commonwealth Health's Lung Cancer Services: A Closer Look**

Commonwealth Health hospitals offer diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They may also have relationships with regional specialists for surgical interventions. Patients may need to be referred to other facilities for more complex treatments.

Telehealth options within the Commonwealth Health system are available. They offer virtual appointments for certain oncology services, which can improve access to care and reduce the need for travel. Specific telehealth statistics are not readily available.

**ER Wait Times at Commonwealth Health Hospitals**

ER wait times at Commonwealth Health hospitals also vary. Data from HHS and other sources can provide estimates of average wait times. It is important to note that these are averages and can fluctuate. Patients should always seek immediate medical attention if they are experiencing a medical emergency.

**Scranton Hospitals: Exploring Options**

Scranton, PA, is another area with a number of hospitals that provide cancer care. Patients may choose to seek care at hospitals in Scranton if they are closer to their homes or if they have established relationships with physicians in that area.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Choosing a hospital is just the first step. Access to supportive care services is also crucial. This includes:

* **Support Groups:** Lung cancer support groups provide emotional support and practical advice. Check with the hospitals or local cancer organizations for information on available groups.
* **Palliative Care:** Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This is an important component of comprehensive cancer care.
* **Financial Assistance:** Cancer treatment can be expensive. Hospitals often have financial assistance programs and can connect patients with resources to help cover costs.

**Clinical Trials: Accessing Cutting-Edge Treatments**

Clinical trials offer access to innovative treatments. Geisinger and other regional hospitals often participate in clinical trials for lung cancer. Discuss clinical trial options with your oncologist to determine if they are appropriate for your situation.

**Making the Right Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for treatment?
* **Specialized Services:** Does the hospital offer the full range of lung cancer services you need?
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the physicians on staff.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the hospital's quality of care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.

**Conclusion: A Path Forward**

Lung cancer treatment requires a comprehensive and personalized approach. Geisinger Health System, with its flagship hospital in Danville, offers a strong regional presence and specialized lung cancer services. Commonwealth Health hospitals and those in Scranton provide additional options, offering varying levels of care and proximity. Thorough research, careful consideration of your individual needs, and open communication with your healthcare team are essential for navigating this challenging journey. Remember to consider CMS star ratings, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and access to supportive care services when making your decision.