What are the best hospitals for Gastrectomy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania?

Surya

I have been diagnosed with a condition that requires a gastrectomy (removal of part or all of the stomach). I am looking for the best and most affordable hospitals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, that specialize in this procedure.
Can anyone recommend top hospitals with experienced surgeons for this surgery?

Mamali

Thank you for reaching out, and I understand that dealing with a diagnosis requiring a gastrectomy can be both physically and emotionally challenging. It’s important to ensure that you receive the best possible care from a highly skilled surgical team. Gastrectomy, whether partial or total, is a significant procedure that requires the expertise of experienced surgeons, particularly those specializing in gastrointestinal (GI) surgery.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is home to several top-tier hospitals with experienced teams that can provide excellent care for this surgery. Below are some of the best hospitals in the area that specialize in gastrectomies:

The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP)
Location: 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA
Specialty: HUP is one of the leading hospitals in Philadelphia, renowned for its advanced surgical care, including gastrointestinal surgeries like gastrectomy. The hospital is home to a dedicated team of surgeons who specialize in complex GI procedures. They are also known for their research and innovations in surgery, which contributes to better outcomes for patients.
Why Choose HUP?: HUP is affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and its surgeons are experts in minimally invasive procedures, which may reduce recovery time and complications.
Affordability: They work with a variety of insurance plans, and it's best to contact their financial services department for a cost estimate and information on payment options.
Jefferson University Hospitals
Location: 833 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Specialty: Jefferson is renowned for its multidisciplinary approach to cancer and gastrointestinal disorders. They have experienced surgeons specializing in gastrectomy, and the hospital is known for providing comprehensive care, including pre- and post-surgery support.
Why Choose Jefferson?: The hospital has a reputation for its patient-centered approach and high success rates in complex surgeries. Jefferson’s gastroenterology and surgery departments are particularly strong in treating patients with GI cancers, which often require gastrectomy procedures.
Affordability: Jefferson offers financial assistance programs, and their billing department can help provide a detailed cost estimate based on your insurance coverage.
Temple University Hospital
Location: 3401 N Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Specialty: Temple University Hospital is a major academic medical center with a highly respected team of GI surgeons. They offer both traditional and minimally invasive techniques for gastrectomy, and their surgeons are well-experienced in treating conditions like gastric cancer, ulcers, and obesity that may require gastrectomy.
Why Choose Temple?: Temple University Hospital is affiliated with the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, and their surgical team is known for its expertise in complex gastrointestinal procedures.
Affordability: Temple offers financial assistance and payment plans to help make care more accessible. It’s a good idea to contact their financial department for personalized billing assistance.
Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia
Location: 5501 Old York Road, Philadelphia, PA
Specialty: Einstein Medical Center offers a variety of surgical options for patients requiring gastrointestinal surgery, including gastrectomy. Their team of surgeons is experienced in treating conditions like stomach cancer, benign tumors, and other diseases that necessitate the removal of part or all of the stomach.
Why Choose Einstein?: Einstein provides high-quality, compassionate care with a focus on minimally invasive surgery, which may lead to shorter recovery times and fewer complications.
Affordability: Einstein works with many insurance providers and offers payment assistance programs to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
Location: 51 N 39th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Specialty: Penn Presbyterian is part of the Penn Medicine network and offers comprehensive care for patients requiring GI surgery, including gastrectomies. Their surgeons are recognized for performing minimally invasive surgeries, which can often reduce recovery times and improve outcomes.
Why Choose Penn Presbyterian?: As part of the University of Pennsylvania health system, they offer access to some of the best surgeons and medical technologies available.
Affordability: Penn Presbyterian provides financial services to assist with the cost of care, and they can provide detailed pricing information based on your insurance.

Next Steps:

Consultation: It is critical to schedule a consultation with a specialist in gastrointestinal surgery to discuss your specific case, treatment options, and surgery plans.

Cost Inquiries: For an accurate cost estimate, reach out to the hospitals’ billing or financial services departments. They can help you understand your insurance coverage, payment plans, and any financial assistance programs.

Insurance: Ensure that the hospital accepts your insurance provider, or inquire about self-pay discounts or payment options if you are paying out-of-pocket.

I hope this helps in your search for the best care. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for more detailed information on any of these hospitals or if you have additional questions.

Amit

For gastrectomy (removal of part or all of the stomach) in Philadelphia, you have access to some of the best hospitals in the region, offering both high-quality care and options for affordability. Here are the top recommendations based on surgical expertise, patient care, and reputation:

Temple University Hospital
Expertise: Temple Health specializes in minimally invasive and robotic gastrectomy procedures, including both partial and total gastrectomy for cancer, severe ulcers, or bariatric reasons.

Surgeons: Dr. Heath J. Antoine, MD, FACS, is a highly experienced, board-certified surgeon specializing in minimally invasive and robotic gastrointestinal surgery, including gastrectomy. He is recognized as a “Top Doctor” by Philadelphia Magazine for 2024–2025 and is praised for his compassionate, individualized care and excellent patient reviews.

Patient Care: Temple offers comprehensive pre- and post-surgical support, including nutrition, counseling, and follow-up care to ensure optimal recovery and long-term health.

Affordability: As a major academic medical center, Temple provides a range of options for insured and self-pay patients, and is known for competitive pricing.

Penn Medicine (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania & Chester County Hospital)
Expertise: Penn’s Bariatric and Weight Loss Surgery Program is MBSAQIP Accredited and offers all forms of gastrectomy, including minimally invasive sleeve and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, as well as complex cancer-related gastrectomies.

Team: Multidisciplinary teams of surgeons, nurses, and nutritionists support you before and after surgery, and Penn is known for excellent outcomes and patient safety.

Patient Support: Comprehensive education, support groups, and personalized care plans are available at both the downtown Philadelphia and Chester County locations.

Fox Chase Cancer Center
Specialization: Fox Chase is a nationally recognized cancer center with a multidisciplinary team experienced in treating stomach cancer with both partial and total gastrectomy.

Why Choose: The center is renowned for individualized treatment plans, access to innovative therapies, and a coordinated approach to complex gastric conditions.

Cost Overview
National average for gastrectomy (including sleeve gastrectomy): $15,000–$38,000, depending on the complexity, hospital, and insurance coverage.

Factors Influencing Cost: Surgeon’s experience, facility fees, anesthesia, pre- and post-operative care, and whether the procedure is for cancer or bariatric reasons.

Insurance: All top hospitals accept major insurance plans, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Financial counseling and payment plans are available for self-pay patients.

Summary Table
Hospital/Center Key Features Notable Surgeons/Team
Temple University Hospital Minimally invasive/robotic, affordable, top reviews Dr. Heath J. Antoine, MD, FACS
Penn Medicine MBSAQIP-accredited, multidisciplinary, support Penn Bariatric & GI surgery team
Fox Chase Cancer Center Cancer-focused, innovative therapies, team approach GI oncology & surgery team
Next Steps:

Schedule a consultation at your preferred hospital to discuss your diagnosis, surgical options, and get a personalized cost estimate.

Bring your insurance information to review coverage and payment options.

Ask about the most suitable surgical technique for your condition and recovery expectations.

In summary:
Temple University Hospital, Penn Medicine (including Chester County Hospital), and Fox Chase Cancer Center are top choices in Philadelphia for gastrectomy, offering experienced surgeons, modern techniques, and strong patient support. All provide affordable options, especially with insurance, and are recognized for high standards of care and outcomes.