17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care Near Selinsgrove, PA: A Scorecard

Finding the best prostate cancer care requires a nuanced approach, considering not just the hospital's reputation, but also its accessibility, specialization, and patient outcomes. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP code 17889), evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in the context of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. We’ll consider factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth services.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Susquehanna Valley, while offering a strong sense of community, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Harrisburg and Philadelphia influences the availability of specialized services. Patients in Selinsgrove often balance the convenience of local options with the potential for more advanced care further afield.

**Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA:**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, approximately 15 miles from Selinsgrove, stands as a regional powerhouse. It's a flagship hospital within the Geisinger Health System, a network known for its integrated care model. Geisinger consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Medical Center currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not a perfect indicator, it provides a valuable benchmark.
* **Cancer Center:** Geisinger's Cancer Institute offers a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from a team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and support staff, all working collaboratively.
* **Specialized Services:** Geisinger offers advanced treatment options, including robotic-assisted surgery (da Vinci system) for prostatectomy. They also provide access to radiation therapy, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy (internal radiation).
* **Telehealth:** Geisinger has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. Telehealth utilization rates have increased significantly in recent years, improving access to care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Geisinger can vary, but the hospital generally strives to keep them within a reasonable timeframe. Patients should expect to be triaged quickly upon arrival. The hospital publishes average wait times on its website.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys generally reflect a positive experience at Geisinger, with patients often praising the staff's attentiveness and the coordinated care.

**UPMC Susquehanna, Williamsport, PA:**

UPMC Susquehanna, with its flagship hospital in Williamsport (approximately 45 miles from Selinsgrove), offers another significant option for prostate cancer care. It is part of the larger UPMC system, known for its extensive network and research capabilities.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Williamsport currently holds a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Cancer Center:** UPMC Susquehanna's cancer program provides a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support. They offer surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Specialized Services:** UPMC Susquehanna provides robotic-assisted surgery for prostate cancer.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available, facilitating virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times can fluctuate. Patients can find average wait times on the UPMC website.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient feedback reflects a generally positive experience, with satisfaction levels varying based on individual interactions.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Community Hospitals:** While smaller community hospitals in the area, such as Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA (approximately 10 miles from Selinsgrove), may offer some diagnostic services and basic care, they typically don't possess the same level of specialized expertise or advanced treatment options as Geisinger or UPMC.
* **Proximity to Major Medical Centers:** Patients in Selinsgrove have the option to travel to larger medical centers in Harrisburg (Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center) or Philadelphia (various hospitals). However, this requires longer travel times and may be less convenient for follow-up appointments.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA:**

Hershey Medical Center, about an hour and a half drive from Selinsgrove, is a major academic medical center and a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a high level of research and clinical expertise.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Hershey Medical Center has a 4-star CMS rating.
* **Cancer Center:** The Penn State Cancer Institute offers comprehensive prostate cancer care, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.
* **Specialized Services:** Hershey Medical Center offers advanced treatment options, including robotic surgery, high-dose rate brachytherapy, and access to cutting-edge clinical trials.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available, providing remote consultations and follow-up care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to provide timely care.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction is generally high, reflecting the center's commitment to quality care.

**Philadelphia Hospitals:**

For patients seeking the most advanced care, Philadelphia offers several highly-regarded hospitals, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. These hospitals often have access to the latest research and treatment protocols. However, the travel distance and potential for higher costs should be considered.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Specialization:** Look for hospitals with dedicated urology departments and cancer centers specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Robotic Surgery:** Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive option that can lead to faster recovery times.
* **Radiation Therapy Options:** Consider the availability of different radiation therapy techniques, such as external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and support staff.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's reputation and patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the travel distance and ease of access to the hospital.
* **Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, explore the availability of clinical trials for innovative treatments.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Selinsgrove, PA, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville offers a strong option for prostate cancer care, with a comprehensive cancer center, advanced treatment options, and a well-regarded reputation. UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport provides another viable choice. Hershey Medical Center offers a higher level of care, but requires a longer drive. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their decision. Consulting with a primary care physician or a urologist is crucial to determine the best course of action and the most appropriate hospital for their specific situation.