18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Look at Hospitals Near Wilkes-Barre, PA (18657)

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires careful consideration, especially when choosing a hospital. Proximity to home is crucial, but so is the quality of care, expertise of the medical team, and availability of advanced technologies. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18657), providing a fact-based assessment to help patients make informed decisions.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre, PA): A Local Hub**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) in Wilkes-Barre is a primary healthcare provider for the region. While not a designated cancer center, it offers comprehensive cancer services, including prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. GWVMC is part of the larger Geisinger Health System, which allows for potential access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

GWVMC’s urology department provides diagnostic services, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams, and biopsies. Treatment options typically include surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The hospital has a dedicated radiation oncology department, offering external beam radiation therapy. They also provide access to chemotherapy if needed.

**CMS Star Rating & ER Wait Times:** GWVMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, considering factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. ER wait times at GWVMC fluctuate, but generally, patients can expect to be seen within a reasonable timeframe. Checking real-time wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party apps is advisable.

**Telehealth & Specialty Centers:** Geisinger Health System has invested heavily in telehealth services. Patients can access virtual consultations with specialists, including urologists and oncologists, through the Geisinger MyHealth portal. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and managing chronic conditions. GWVMC also has specialty centers, including a cardiac center, stroke center, and orthopedics department. While not specifically a prostate cancer center, these centers demonstrate the hospital's commitment to specialized care.

**Scranton Hospitals: Expanding the Options**

Traveling slightly further afield, hospitals in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offer additional choices for prostate cancer care. Scranton is approximately a 45-minute drive from Wilkes-Barre.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton, PA): A Community Focus**

Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton provides a range of cancer services, including those for prostate cancer. They offer diagnostic services, surgical options, and radiation therapy. Moses Taylor is known for its community focus and patient-centered approach.

**CMS Star Rating & ER Wait Times:** Moses Taylor Hospital also holds a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times are generally comparable to GWVMC, but again, checking real-time data is recommended.

**Telehealth & Specialty Centers:** Moses Taylor Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities. They offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. Specialty centers include a heart and vascular institute and a women's health center.

**Regional Hospital of Scranton (Scranton, PA): A Comprehensive Approach**

Regional Hospital of Scranton offers a comprehensive cancer program, including treatment for prostate cancer. They have a dedicated oncology department with experienced specialists. The hospital provides a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.

**CMS Star Rating & ER Wait Times:** Regional Hospital of Scranton has a 3-star rating from CMS. ER wait times can vary, so checking current wait times before arrival is recommended.

**Telehealth & Specialty Centers:** Regional Hospital has expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. They have specialized centers for cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.

**Philadelphia: Access to Flagship Cancer Centers**

For patients seeking access to highly specialized care and cutting-edge treatments, traveling to Philadelphia, approximately a 2-3 hour drive from Wilkes-Barre, opens up options at some of the nation's leading cancer centers.

**The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA): A National Leader**

The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) is a nationally recognized academic medical center. Its Abramson Cancer Center is a major referral center for prostate cancer patients. HUP offers a full spectrum of treatment options, including advanced surgical techniques (such as robotic-assisted prostatectomy), innovative radiation therapies (like proton therapy and brachytherapy), and clinical trials for novel therapies.

**CMS Star Rating & ER Wait Times:** HUP has a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting its high quality of care. However, ER wait times can be longer due to the high volume of patients. It's crucial to consider the potential for longer wait times when choosing HUP for emergency care.

**Telehealth & Specialty Centers:** HUP has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring. The Abramson Cancer Center boasts numerous specialty centers, including those focused on specific cancer types and advanced therapies.

**Fox Chase Cancer Center (Philadelphia, PA): A Dedicated Cancer Institution**

Fox Chase Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, meaning it meets rigorous standards for research, patient care, and community outreach. Fox Chase offers a wide range of prostate cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials. They are known for their expertise in complex cases and their commitment to research.

**CMS Star Rating & ER Wait Times:** Fox Chase Cancer Center is part of Temple University Health System, which has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times can vary, so checking real-time data is recommended.

**Telehealth & Specialty Centers:** Fox Chase has expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring. They have specialized centers for various cancer types, including prostate cancer, and a strong focus on research.

**Other Considerations: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Beyond hospital-specific factors, several other aspects are essential in the prostate cancer treatment journey.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify your insurance coverage with each hospital before scheduling appointments. Understand your plan's network, co-pays, and pre-authorization requirements.

**Physician Expertise:** Research the urologists and oncologists at each hospital. Look for board certification, experience, and specialization in prostate cancer treatment. Consider reading patient reviews and testimonials.

**Support Services:** Inquire about the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling. These resources can be invaluable in navigating the emotional and practical challenges of cancer treatment.

**Clinical Trials:** Explore the availability of clinical trials at each hospital. Participating in a clinical trial can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in cancer care.

**Patient Experience:** Consider the overall patient experience at each hospital. Factors like communication, wait times, and the comfort of the facilities can significantly impact your well-being during treatment.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer care is a personal decision. It involves weighing factors like proximity, expertise, technology, and patient experience. Hospitals near Wilkes-Barre, PA (18657), offer a range of options, from local community hospitals to specialized cancer centers in Philadelphia. By carefully researching these options and considering your individual needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and embark on your treatment journey with confidence. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek second opinions to ensure you receive the best possible care.