17752, Montgomery, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17752, Montgomery, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17752**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 17752 (Lewisburg, Pennsylvania) and provides a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. While the immediate vicinity offers limited options, we will consider regional facilities within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on key factors like quality of care, specialized services, and patient experience.

**Limited Local Options: A Reality Check**

The immediate area surrounding Lewisburg, PA, has limited hospital options. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg itself is the primary local healthcare provider. For more specialized care, patients often need to travel to larger regional medical centers. This review, therefore, will include Evangelical Community Hospital and then expand the scope to include facilities within a reasonable driving distance, such as those in Danville, Harrisburg, and Scranton, Pennsylvania.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: A Closer Look**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located directly in Lewisburg, offers a range of services, including urology and oncology. While it may not have a dedicated, comprehensive prostate cancer center, it provides local access to initial diagnosis and treatment. Patients can expect services like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, biopsies, and potentially some forms of localized treatment. Evangelical Community Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. CMS ratings, based on data reported by hospitals, are a useful but imperfect indicator of overall quality. The hospital’s ER wait times are generally within the national average, but it's always advisable to check current wait times through their website or by phone before visiting. Telehealth services are available, which may be beneficial for follow-up appointments or consultations. The availability of specific prostate cancer treatments like robotic surgery or advanced radiation therapy may be limited, and patients might need to seek these services elsewhere.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville, PA): A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, approximately a 30-minute drive from Lewisburg, represents a significant upgrade in terms of specialized care. Geisinger is a large, integrated health system with a reputation for quality and innovation. It is a flagship hospital within the Geisinger system. Geisinger Medical Center boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher overall quality of care compared to Evangelical Community Hospital.

**Geisinger's Prostate Cancer Expertise**

Geisinger's urology department is well-regarded, offering comprehensive prostate cancer services. They provide advanced diagnostic tools, including sophisticated imaging techniques. They have a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other specialists collaborating on patient care. Geisinger offers a range of treatment options, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy (surgery), external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), and chemotherapy. They are likely to have clinical trials available, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, which often provides support services like patient navigation, support groups, and educational resources. ER wait times at Geisinger Medical Center can vary, so it's recommended to check their website or call ahead. Telehealth services are widely available, facilitating remote consultations and follow-up care.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA): A Comprehensive Cancer Center**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA, is a more distant option, about a 1 hour 30-minute drive from Lewisburg. However, it is a major academic medical center with a comprehensive cancer center. This hospital is another flagship facility, often attracting patients seeking specialized care.

**Hershey's Cancer Center Advantage**

Hershey Medical Center's cancer center offers a full spectrum of prostate cancer services. They have a team of highly specialized physicians and access to the latest technologies. They are likely to offer advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy options, including proton therapy. The hospital is likely to be involved in cutting-edge research and clinical trials. Hershey Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times can vary, so it's advisable to check their website or call ahead. Telehealth services are available to provide convenient access to care.

**Other Considerations: Additional Hospitals**

While the above hospitals are the primary contenders for prostate cancer care near 17752, other hospitals should be considered.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA):** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another option, located in Harrisburg, PA. It is approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Lewisburg. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. It offers urology and oncology services.

**Scranton Hospitals:** Scranton, PA, is about a 2-hour drive. Scranton offers several hospitals, including Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital. These hospitals may offer urology and oncology services. However, they may not have the same level of specialization or access to advanced treatments as Geisinger Medical Center in Danville or Penn State Hershey.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

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

* **Specialization:** Look for hospitals with dedicated urology and oncology departments, ideally with a prostate cancer center.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Technology:** Assess the availability of advanced technologies, such as robotic surgery, advanced imaging, and proton therapy.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Confirm that the hospital has a multidisciplinary team of specialists who collaborate on patient care.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the hospital's patient-centered approach.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Travel Distance:** Consider the travel distance and the convenience of the location.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check the hospital's ER wait times, especially if you require urgent care.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Determine if the hospital offers telehealth services for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **CMS Ratings:** While not the only factor, CMS star ratings can provide a general indication of hospital quality.

**The Importance of Consulting with Your Physician**

This review provides information to assist in your decision-making process. However, it is crucial to consult with your primary care physician or a urologist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific medical needs and circumstances. They can also help you navigate the healthcare system and coordinate your care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents near ZIP code 17752, the best options for prostate cancer care are regional hospitals. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, PA, are the primary choices, offering comprehensive services and advanced technologies. Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg provides local access to care, but may require referral to a larger center for more specialized treatment. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and hospitals in Scranton are also options, but may offer fewer specialized services. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review and consulting with your physician, you can make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best meets your needs.