17745, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17745, Lock Haven, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17745**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires careful consideration of available healthcare resources. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 17745 (Lock Haven, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-rich overview of their prostate cancer care capabilities. The analysis considers factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth offerings, and more, to aid in informed decision-making.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Region**

The immediate vicinity of Lock Haven, PA, is characterized by a mix of community hospitals and regional healthcare systems. Access to comprehensive cancer care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers, particularly for advanced treatments. This review will assess the options, weighing proximity against the breadth and depth of services offered.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Geisinger Medical Center, located in Danville, PA, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape and a key consideration for prostate cancer patients near 17745. Geisinger is a large, integrated health system, known for its commitment to research and innovation.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Medical Center holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience, indicating a good level of performance.
* **Cancer Center:** Geisinger's Cancer Institute is a comprehensive facility offering a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. They have dedicated teams of urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists who collaborate on individualized treatment plans.
* **Specialized Prostate Cancer Services:** Geisinger provides a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, including robotic-assisted surgery (e.g., the da Vinci system), external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. They also offer advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **ER Wait Times:** According to recent data, Geisinger Medical Center's ER wait times are typically around 30-60 minutes, which is competitive with other regional hospitals. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. The telehealth platform allows patients to connect with their care team remotely, discuss treatment plans, and manage their medications.
* **Clinical Trials:** Geisinger is actively involved in clinical trials for prostate cancer, providing patients with access to cutting-edge therapies and research opportunities.
* **Patient Support Services:** The Cancer Institute provides comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, nutritional counseling, and financial assistance programs.

**UPMC Williamsport (Williamsport, PA): A Regional Option**

UPMC Williamsport, located in Williamsport, PA, is another significant hospital in the region, offering a range of healthcare services, including cancer care. It's a closer option for residents of 17745 than Geisinger, making it a convenient choice for some patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Williamsport has a 3-star rating from CMS, indicating average performance compared to other hospitals.
* **Cancer Center:** UPMC Williamsport has a cancer center that provides a range of cancer treatments.
* **Prostate Cancer Services:** UPMC Williamsport provides prostate cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. They utilize advanced imaging technologies for diagnosis and staging.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Williamsport are generally around 45-75 minutes.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC Williamsport has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments for cancer patients.
* **Patient Support Services:** UPMC Williamsport offers patient support services, including patient navigators and support groups.

**Other Considerations: Community Hospitals and Smaller Facilities**

Several smaller community hospitals and medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance of Lock Haven. These facilities may offer basic diagnostic services and initial consultations, but they often refer patients to larger hospitals like Geisinger or UPMC for specialized treatment.

* **Bucktail Medical Center (Renovo, PA):** Located closer to 17745, Bucktail Medical Center may offer some primary care and diagnostic services. However, it's unlikely to have a dedicated cancer center or the full range of prostate cancer treatments.
* **Jersey Shore Hospital (Jersey Shore, PA):** Jersey Shore Hospital is another local option that may offer basic healthcare services, including some diagnostic testing. However, it's not a major cancer treatment center.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for prostate cancer care, several factors should be carefully considered:

* **Expertise and Experience:** Look for hospitals with experienced urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists who specialize in prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Technology:** Assess the hospital's access to advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, as well as robotic-assisted surgery.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Choose a hospital with a multidisciplinary team that collaborates on treatment plans.
* **Patient Support Services:** Consider the availability of patient navigators, support groups, and other resources.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** While comprehensive care is paramount, consider the hospital's location and the ease of access, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Telehealth Options:** Determine if the hospital offers telehealth services to reduce travel and improve access to care.
* **Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, inquire about the availability of clinical trials.

**Making an Informed Decision**

For residents of the 17745 ZIP code, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville emerges as a leading choice for prostate cancer care due to its comprehensive services, advanced technology, and strong CMS star rating. UPMC Williamsport offers a more convenient option, but with a slightly lower level of resources. Smaller community hospitals may provide initial consultations and diagnostic services but often refer patients to larger centers for specialized treatment.

Patients should consult with their primary care physician and potentially a urologist to discuss their individual needs and preferences. They should also research the hospitals, review their websites, and, if possible, speak with other patients to gather insights and make the best-informed decision for their care. The choice of a hospital is a personal one, and the best option will depend on individual circumstances, preferences, and the stage and type of prostate cancer.