17801, Sunbury, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17801, Sunbury, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care in the 17801 Area: A Scorecard of Hospitals

The residents of the 17801 ZIP code, encompassing the city of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas, have access to a range of healthcare options for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Evaluating these options requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors like hospital quality, specialist availability, technological advancements, and patient convenience. This review delves into the key players in the region, providing a fact-rich assessment to help patients make informed decisions.

**Defining the Landscape: Proximity and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of Lewisburg offers a more limited selection of hospitals compared to larger metropolitan areas. However, several institutions within a reasonable driving distance provide comprehensive prostate cancer care. These include Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg itself, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, and UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital. Further afield, but still within a practical travel range, are larger medical centers in Harrisburg and Philadelphia.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: Local Care with a Focus on Community**

Evangelical Community Hospital, located directly within the 17801 ZIP code, is a crucial starting point for many residents. While not a major tertiary care center, Evangelical offers a foundational level of care. They have a dedicated urology department that provides diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer. They offer services like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, biopsies, and initial treatment options.

The hospital’s focus is on community-based care, emphasizing patient comfort and convenience. While Evangelical doesn't have a specific prostate cancer center, they collaborate with specialists to provide a comprehensive approach. They also have a strong telehealth presence, offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments and basic consultations. However, they lack the advanced technology and specialized expertise of larger hospitals. Their CMS star rating fluctuates but generally falls in the 3-4 star range, reflecting average performance in quality and safety. ER wait times are typically moderate, averaging around 30-60 minutes.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately a 20-minute drive from Lewisburg, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. Geisinger is a large, integrated health system with a strong reputation for quality and innovation. They boast a dedicated urology department with fellowship-trained specialists in all aspects of prostate cancer care.

Geisinger's prostate cancer program offers a wide range of services, including advanced imaging techniques like MRI fusion biopsies, robotic-assisted surgery (using the da Vinci system), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. They also have a robust clinical trials program, providing access to cutting-edge treatments. Geisinger has a strong focus on research and innovation. They are known for their integrated electronic health record system, which facilitates seamless communication and coordination of care.

Geisinger Medical Center consistently receives high marks for quality and safety. They generally maintain a 4-5 star CMS rating. ER wait times are usually longer than Evangelical, averaging around 45-90 minutes, reflecting the higher volume of patients. They also have extensive telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital: A Solid Option**

UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital, located about an hour's drive from Lewisburg, provides another option for prostate cancer care. This hospital is part of the larger UPMC health system, offering a broader network of resources and expertise. They have a urology department that provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services.

UPMC Susquehanna offers robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. While they may not have the same level of specialization as Geisinger, they offer a good standard of care. They have a strong focus on patient-centered care and offer support services like support groups and patient education programs.

UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital generally receives a 3-4 star CMS rating. ER wait times are typically in the 30-60 minute range. They have a growing telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Beyond the Immediate Vicinity: Exploring Further Options**

For patients seeking highly specialized care or access to cutting-edge treatments, exploring hospitals further afield might be necessary.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, this hospital is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Lewisburg. It is a major academic medical center with a comprehensive cancer center. They offer a wide range of prostate cancer treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. Hershey Medical Center has a strong research focus and access to innovative therapies.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:** Located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, this hospital is approximately a 2-hour drive from Lewisburg. It is part of the UPMC system, providing access to a network of specialists and resources. They offer comprehensive prostate cancer care, including robotic surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

**Jefferson Health (Philadelphia):** For those willing to travel further, Jefferson Health in Philadelphia offers access to some of the most advanced prostate cancer care in the region. They have a renowned cancer center with leading specialists and access to cutting-edge clinical trials. However, travel and associated costs should be considered.

**Key Considerations for Prostate Cancer Care:**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer care involves several critical factors:

* **Specialist Expertise:** The experience and training of the urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists are crucial. Look for fellowship-trained specialists with specific expertise in prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, including surgery (robotic-assisted and open), radiation therapy (external beam, brachytherapy), chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and access to clinical trials.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Advanced imaging techniques (MRI fusion biopsies, PET scans), robotic surgical systems, and advanced radiation therapy equipment are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, patient education programs, and psychological support can significantly improve the patient experience.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider factors like hospital ratings (CMS star ratings, patient satisfaction surveys), ER wait times, and the overall quality of care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring, especially for patients living in rural areas.

**Telehealth Statistics and Trends:**

Telehealth utilization has increased significantly in recent years, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals in the 17801 area have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources. Geisinger Medical Center has been a leader in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual services. Evangelical Community Hospital and UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital have also increased their telehealth capabilities.

**ER Wait Times: A Snapshot of Access**

ER wait times can be an indicator of hospital volume and efficiency. Generally, Evangelical Community Hospital has shorter ER wait times compared to Geisinger Medical Center, reflecting its smaller size and lower patient volume. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital's wait times are usually in the moderate range. It is important to note that ER wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Options**

Residents of the 17801 ZIP code have a reasonable selection of hospitals for prostate cancer care. Evangelical Community Hospital offers convenient local care, while Geisinger Medical Center provides a more comprehensive range of services and expertise. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital offers another viable option. For those seeking highly specialized care or access to cutting-edge treatments, hospitals in Hershey, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia may be considered.

Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences, considering the factors outlined above. Consulting with a primary care physician or urologist is essential to determine the best course of action and referral options. By understanding the available resources and making informed decisions, patients can navigate the complexities of prostate cancer care and receive the best possible treatment.