17029, Granville, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17029, Granville, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17029)

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires careful consideration of available medical resources. This review focuses on hospitals near Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17029), providing a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. The information presented incorporates publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center details, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Hershey area are Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital. Both institutions offer comprehensive medical services and are vital components of the regional healthcare infrastructure. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, like WellSpan York Hospital, also provide specialized care options.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located directly in Hershey, PA, is a major academic medical center and a cornerstone of healthcare in the region. It boasts a high volume of patient care and is often a first point of contact for complex medical needs. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation is evident in its various specialized centers.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** The Hershey Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. The CMS rating system is a valuable tool for comparing hospitals, although it should be considered alongside other factors.

**Prostate Cancer Specialty:** The hospital features a dedicated urology department with a focus on prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as multiparametric MRI and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing. The urology team offers a range of treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery (da Vinci surgical system), radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

**ER Wait Times and Access:** Emergency room wait times at Hershey Medical Center fluctuate, but it's crucial to consider the average wait time, which can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Publicly available data on the hospital's website and other sources will provide an up-to-date view. The hospital's ER is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:** Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years. Telehealth appointments are available for certain urology consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The availability of telehealth services enhances patient access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Comprehensive Care Provider**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located approximately 15 miles from Hershey, is another significant healthcare provider in the region. It offers a wide array of medical services, including those related to prostate cancer.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating is an indicator of the hospital's overall quality of care.

**Prostate Cancer Specialty:** The hospital's urology department provides comprehensive prostate cancer care, including diagnosis, staging, and treatment. The team offers various treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The hospital has advanced imaging capabilities and access to minimally invasive surgical techniques.

**ER Wait Times and Access:** ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are available through public data sources. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has implemented telehealth programs to improve patient access to care. Telehealth appointments may be available for certain urology consultations and follow-up appointments.

**WellSpan York Hospital: Regional Options**

WellSpan York Hospital, located approximately 30 miles from Hershey, is another hospital option within a reasonable driving distance. It offers a range of medical services, including urology and cancer care.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance:** WellSpan York Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.

**Prostate Cancer Specialty:** The hospital's urology department provides care for prostate cancer, including diagnosis and treatment.

**ER Wait Times and Access:** ER wait times at WellSpan York Hospital are available through public data sources.

**Other Considerations: Cancer Centers and Specialized Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, patients should also consider specialized cancer centers and other facilities that offer specific services.

**Cancer Centers:** The Hershey Medical Center's Cancer Institute is a major resource for cancer care, including prostate cancer. The institute offers comprehensive services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care.

**Radiation Oncology:** Both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offer radiation oncology services. These services include external beam radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and brachytherapy.

**Surgical Options:** Robotic-assisted surgery (da Vinci surgical system) is available at both Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg Hospital. This minimally invasive approach can reduce recovery time and improve patient outcomes.

**Support Services:** Both hospitals offer support services for cancer patients, including support groups, counseling, and nutritional counseling.

**Research and Clinical Trials:** Hershey Medical Center, as an academic medical center, actively participates in clinical trials for prostate cancer. These trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

The cost of prostate cancer care can vary depending on the type of treatment, the hospital, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should contact their insurance provider to understand their coverage and out-of-pocket expenses. Financial assistance programs may be available to help patients with the cost of care.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are important factors to consider when choosing a hospital. Patients can review online ratings and reviews from other patients to get a sense of the hospital's reputation and the quality of care provided.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care is a significant decision. Patients should consider a variety of factors, including the hospital's CMS star rating, the expertise of the urology team, the availability of advanced treatment options, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews. Consulting with a primary care physician or a urologist is crucial to determine the best course of action.

**Conclusion**

The Hershey, PA area offers a range of healthcare options for prostate cancer patients. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, as a flagship institution, provides comprehensive care and access to advanced treatments. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and WellSpan York Hospital also offer valuable services. Patients should carefully research their options, consider their individual needs, and consult with their healthcare providers to make the best possible decision for their care. The information presented in this review is intended to provide a starting point for research and should not be considered medical advice.