24265, Keokee, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24265, Keokee, Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near ZIP Code 24265

Finding the best breast cancer care is a critical journey. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 24265 (Lebanon, Virginia) to provide a fact-rich overview, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. The aim is to equip individuals with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Focused Expertise**

The immediate vicinity of Lebanon, Virginia, presents a limited number of hospitals. This necessitates a broader geographic search to identify comprehensive breast cancer care options. The following analysis considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those with established reputations and specialized services.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Gauge of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings offer a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of hospital quality. These ratings, based on a range of factors including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, provide a starting point for evaluating potential care providers.

**Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN):** Located approximately 40 miles from Lebanon, Holston Valley Medical Center, part of Ballad Health, is a major regional player. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it's crucial to check the most current data on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Holston Valley has a dedicated cancer center, which is a key indicator of specialized care. Patients should investigate the center's accreditation status (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer) and the specific services offered, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN):** Another Ballad Health facility, Bristol Regional is roughly 50 miles from Lebanon. Similar to Holston Valley, its CMS star rating should be verified directly on the CMS website. Bristol Regional also has a cancer center, which is a critical factor in assessing comprehensive breast cancer care. Evaluate the center's accreditations, the availability of multidisciplinary teams (surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, etc.), and the range of treatment options.

**ER Wait Times: A Measure of Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a practical consideration, especially in urgent situations. While not directly related to breast cancer care, longer wait times can indicate potential resource constraints within a hospital.

**Holston Valley Medical Center:** Publicly available data (e.g., from CMS or third-party websites like ProPublica) should be consulted for current ER wait times. These times can fluctuate, so it's essential to check recent data.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center:** Similar to Holston Valley, accessing up-to-date ER wait time information is crucial. Check the CMS website or other reliable sources for this information.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Deepening the Focus**

Dedicated breast cancer centers and specialized programs are crucial for providing comprehensive care. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together experts from various fields to address the complexities of breast cancer.

**Holston Valley Medical Center:** Investigate the specific programs offered by the cancer center. This includes the availability of:

* **Breast imaging services:** Mammography (including 3D mammography), ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Surgical oncology:** Breast surgeons specializing in various surgical techniques, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel node biopsy.
* **Medical oncology:** Medical oncologists who administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation oncology:** Radiation oncologists who deliver radiation therapy.
* **Rehabilitation services:** Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lymphedema management.
* **Support services:** Support groups, counseling, and patient navigation services.
* **Clinical trials:** The availability of clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center:** Similarly, evaluate the cancer center's offerings, focusing on the same criteria outlined for Holston Valley. The presence of a dedicated breast health center within the larger cancer center is a significant advantage.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access and Convenience**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care. It can improve access to specialists and reduce the burden of travel.

**Holston Valley Medical Center:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients. This includes:

* **Virtual consultations with oncologists and surgeons.**
* **Remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment.**
* **Online support groups and educational resources.**
* **Telehealth for genetic counseling.**

**Bristol Regional Medical Center:** Determine the extent of telehealth offerings at Bristol Regional. The same considerations as for Holston Valley apply.

**Additional Considerations: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors should influence your decision:

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals and cancer centers accredited by reputable organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews (e.g., on Healthgrades, Vitals, or Google) to gain insights into patient experiences. However, consider that reviews are subjective and may not reflect the full picture.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Proximity:** Consider the travel distance and ease of access to the hospital.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors such as the hospital's environment, the communication style of the healthcare providers, and the availability of support services that meet your needs.

**The Importance of Local Resources**

While this review focuses on hospitals, it's also important to consider local resources:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Your primary care physician can be a valuable resource for referrals and guidance.
* **Support Groups:** Seek out local support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors.
* **Community Health Organizations:** Explore the services offered by local health organizations, such as free or low-cost screenings and educational programs.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating options near ZIP code 24265. By carefully considering the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and additional considerations, individuals can make informed choices that align with their specific needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your physician and other healthcare professionals to develop a personalized care plan. The best care is the care that is right for you.