44672, Sebring, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 44672, Sebring, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44672**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review examines hospitals near the 44672 ZIP code, focusing on factors crucial for prostate cancer care, including hospital quality, specialist availability, and patient access. The information provided is based on publicly available data and should be used as a starting point for personal research and consultation with medical professionals.

**Proximity and Core Hospital Options**

The 44672 ZIP code is located in Ohio, near Canton. Proximity to major medical centers is a key consideration. While smaller community hospitals exist, this review will concentrate on flagship hospitals and those with robust cancer care programs.

**Cleveland Clinic**

The Cleveland Clinic, a nationally renowned healthcare system, is a significant player in the region. While not directly in the 44672 ZIP code, its main campus is within a reasonable driving distance for many residents. The Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center is a comprehensive facility, offering a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer treatment. They boast a high volume of prostate cancer cases, which often translates to greater physician experience. The hospital's urology department consistently ranks among the best in the nation. The Cleveland Clinic has a 4-star CMS rating. ER wait times can vary, so checking the hospital's website for current wait times is recommended. The Cleveland Clinic has an extensive telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be beneficial for patients in rural areas.

**University Hospitals**

University Hospitals (UH) is another major healthcare system serving the region. Like the Cleveland Clinic, UH's main facilities are not within the immediate vicinity of 44672, but are accessible. UH has a strong cancer program, including specialized prostate cancer care. They have a network of hospitals and outpatient centers, potentially offering patients more localized treatment options. UH's CMS star rating fluctuates, so it's essential to check the most recent data. UH also provides telehealth services, facilitating remote access to specialists.

**Aultman Hospital**

Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a more local option. It is a regional medical center with a cancer program. While not as large as the Cleveland Clinic or UH, Aultman provides prostate cancer services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support. Aultman Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable, and it's advisable to check the hospital's website for current estimates. Aultman has been expanding its telehealth offerings.

**Summa Health**

Summa Health, with its main campus in Akron, Ohio, is another option. Summa Health offers a cancer center with prostate cancer services. Like other hospitals, Summa Health has a network of facilities, potentially providing patients with convenient access to care. Summa Health has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable, and it's advisable to check the hospital's website for current estimates. Summa Health has been expanding its telehealth offerings.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Centers and Services**

The best hospitals for prostate cancer care often have dedicated centers or programs. These centers usually offer a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and specialized nurses. They may also provide access to clinical trials and advanced treatment technologies.

**Robotic Surgery:** Minimally invasive robotic surgery, such as the da Vinci system, is frequently used for prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate). Hospitals with robotic surgery capabilities are often preferred. The Cleveland Clinic, UH, and Aultman Hospital are known to offer robotic surgery for prostate cancer.

**Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy is a common treatment for prostate cancer. Hospitals should offer a range of radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and brachytherapy (internal radiation). The Cleveland Clinic, UH, and Aultman Hospital all provide radiation therapy services.

**Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists specialize in chemotherapy and other systemic therapies for cancer. Hospitals should have medical oncologists on staff or readily available for consultation. The Cleveland Clinic, UH, and Aultman Hospital have medical oncology departments.

**Advanced Imaging:** Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for prostate cancer treatment. Hospitals should have access to advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI, PET scans, and bone scans. The Cleveland Clinic, UH, and Aultman Hospital offer these imaging services.

**Patient Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Hospitals should provide patient support services, such as counseling, support groups, and patient navigators. The Cleveland Clinic, UH, and Aultman Hospital offer these services.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, particularly in emergencies. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools to monitor current wait times is recommended. Access to specialists is also important. Patients should be able to see a urologist, radiation oncologist, or medical oncologist in a timely manner.

**Telehealth and Remote Access**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The Cleveland Clinic, UH, and Aultman Hospital have expanded their telehealth programs.

**CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures. These ratings can be a helpful indicator of hospital performance, but they should be considered alongside other factors. The Cleveland Clinic has a 4-star rating, while Aultman and Summa Health have 3-star ratings.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Hospitals involved in clinical trials and research may offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. The Cleveland Clinic is particularly active in research.

**Physician Experience and Reputation**

The experience and reputation of the physicians are critical. Researching the urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists at each hospital is essential. Look for physicians with experience in treating prostate cancer and those who specialize in specific treatment approaches.

**Insurance Coverage and Costs**

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs can vary. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine which hospitals are in their network and what their financial responsibilities will be.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a complex decision. Hospitals near the 44672 ZIP code offer a range of options, from large, nationally recognized medical centers to regional hospitals. The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals are major players, offering comprehensive cancer care. Aultman Hospital and Summa Health are local options. Patients should consider factors such as hospital quality, specialist availability, access to advanced treatments, patient support services, and insurance coverage when making their decision. Thorough research, consultation with medical professionals, and consideration of individual needs are crucial in this process. This review provides a starting point for your research, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.