18618, Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18618, Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near Dallas, PA (ZIP Code 18618)**

The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be daunting. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision, and understanding the available options near Dallas, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18618) is essential. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals in the region, focusing on their prostate cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options.

**Regional Overview and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of Dallas, PA, is primarily served by hospitals in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton metropolitan area. While no single hospital dominates the landscape, several institutions offer comprehensive cancer care, including prostate cancer treatment. Proximity to major medical centers in Philadelphia and New York City also expands the options, but this review focuses on the more accessible regional facilities.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA)**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center is a significant healthcare provider in the region. It is part of the larger Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated care model. Geisinger Wyoming Valley offers a comprehensive cancer program, including urology services and radiation oncology, crucial for prostate cancer treatment.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average ER wait time at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center fluctuates but is generally in line with regional averages, typically around 30-60 minutes. However, wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the patient's condition.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital has a dedicated cancer center that provides multidisciplinary care for various cancers, including prostate cancer. This center offers access to medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and support staff.
* **Telehealth:** Geisinger Health System has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients managing chronic conditions like prostate cancer, allowing for convenient access to care.
* **Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley offers a range of prostate cancer treatment options, including surgery (robotic-assisted and open), radiation therapy (including external beam radiation and brachytherapy), and medical oncology (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies).

**Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital (Wilkes-Barre, PA)**

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital is another prominent healthcare provider in the area. It is part of the Commonwealth Health network. The hospital provides a range of medical services, including cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Wilkes-Barre General Hospital has a 2-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital are generally comparable to those at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, typically ranging from 30 to 60 minutes.
* **Specialty Centers:** Wilkes-Barre General Hospital has a cancer center that provides comprehensive cancer care.
* **Telehealth:** Commonwealth Health offers telehealth services, providing virtual consultations and follow-up care.
* **Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:** Wilkes-Barre General Hospital offers surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology services for prostate cancer treatment.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors are crucial in evaluating prostate cancer care.

* **Urologist Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the urologists and surgeons are paramount. Patients should inquire about the number of prostate cancer surgeries performed annually, the surgeons' specific training, and their experience with minimally invasive techniques like robotic-assisted surgery.
* **Radiation Oncology Capabilities:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), is important for minimizing side effects and maximizing treatment effectiveness.
* **Medical Oncology Support:** The presence of experienced medical oncologists who can provide chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies is crucial for patients with advanced prostate cancer.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and rehabilitation programs, can significantly improve the patient experience and quality of life.
* **Clinical Trials:** The availability of clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and improve outcomes. Patients should inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials for prostate cancer.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report offer patient reviews and hospital ratings.

**Traveling for Care: Expanding the Horizon**

While local hospitals offer essential services, patients may consider traveling to larger medical centers for specialized care or access to advanced technologies.

* **Philadelphia, PA:** Philadelphia, approximately a 2-hour drive from Dallas, PA, is home to several world-renowned hospitals, including the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. These institutions often have specialized prostate cancer centers and offer access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.
* **New York City, NY:** New York City, roughly a 3-hour drive, also boasts leading cancer centers like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. These hospitals are known for their expertise in prostate cancer treatment and research.

**Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)**

The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) is a highly regarded academic medical center. It is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** HUP generally receives high ratings from CMS, often 4 or 5 stars, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at HUP can vary but are typically longer than those at community hospitals, often exceeding 1 hour.
* **Specialty Centers:** HUP has a comprehensive cancer center that offers specialized care for various cancers, including prostate cancer.
* **Telehealth:** HUP provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:** HUP offers a wide range of prostate cancer treatment options, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy (including proton therapy), and medical oncology.

**Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (Philadelphia, PA)**

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital is another major medical center in Philadelphia. It has a strong reputation for its cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Jefferson hospitals generally receive high CMS ratings, reflecting their focus on quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Jefferson can vary but are often longer than community hospitals.
* **Specialty Centers:** Jefferson has a comprehensive cancer center.
* **Telehealth:** Jefferson offers telehealth services.
* **Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:** Jefferson offers a wide range of prostate cancer treatment options, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

**Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY)**

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) is a world-renowned cancer center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** MSKCC is not a CMS-rated hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** MSKCC does not have a general ER.
* **Specialty Centers:** MSKCC is a dedicated cancer center.
* **Telehealth:** MSKCC offers telehealth services.
* **Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:** MSKCC offers a comprehensive range of prostate cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

**NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital (New York, NY)**

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital is a major academic medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NewYork-Presbyterian hospitals generally receive high CMS ratings.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** NewYork-Presbyterian has comprehensive cancer centers.
* **Telehealth:** NewYork-Presbyterian offers telehealth services.
* **Prostate Cancer Treatment Options:** NewYork-Presbyterian offers a wide range of prostate cancer treatment options.

**Telehealth in the Equation**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. It offers several advantages, including:

* **Convenience:** Patients can access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can be especially beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues.
* **Continuity of Care:** Telehealth allows for regular follow-up appointments and monitoring of treatment progress.

Hospitals in the region, including Geisinger and Commonwealth Health, have expanded their telehealth services, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups. This can significantly enhance the patient experience and improve access to care.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a significant decision. Patients near Dallas, PA (ZIP code 18618) have several options, ranging from local hospitals to major medical centers in Philadelphia and New York City. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital are key players in the immediate area, offering comprehensive cancer care. However, patients should carefully consider the expertise of the medical team, the availability of advanced technologies, and the support services offered. Exploring options in Philadelphia and New York City may be warranted for access to specialized care and clinical trials. Telehealth is also an important consideration, providing convenient access to care and ongoing support. By carefully evaluating these factors, patients can make an informed decision and receive the best possible care for their prostate cancer.