24283, Saint Paul, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24283, Saint Paul, Virginia is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Southwest Virginia: A Look at Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24283

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Access to high-quality care, including early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment, is paramount. For individuals residing near ZIP code 24283 (Tazewell, Virginia), several hospitals offer varying levels of breast cancer services. This review examines the prominent healthcare providers in the region, focusing on factors crucial to informed decision-making, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in Southwest Virginia is largely defined by a network of regional hospitals, often affiliated with larger health systems. These facilities serve a diverse population, and access to specialized cancer care can vary. Proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring states, such as West Virginia and North Carolina, also influences the options available to patients.

**Carilion Tazewell Community Hospital: A Local Hub**

Carilion Tazewell Community Hospital (CTCH), located within the 24283 ZIP code, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the local community. While CTCH is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives federal support due to its rural location and limited services, it offers essential services, including diagnostic imaging and basic surgical procedures. However, CTCH does not have a dedicated breast cancer center or a comprehensive oncology program. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer at CTCH are typically referred to other facilities for specialized treatment.

**Carilion Clinic: The Regional Network**

Carilion Clinic, a larger healthcare system, has a significant presence in Southwest Virginia. While CTCH is part of the Carilion network, the system's flagship hospital, Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (CRMH) in Roanoke, Virginia, is a major referral center for complex medical cases. CRMH offers a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated breast care center.

**Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital: A Flagship Facility**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (CRMH) is a large, tertiary care hospital. It is a Level I trauma center and offers a wide range of medical specialties, including a robust cancer program. CRMH's breast care center provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care, with a team of specialists including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and specialized nurses.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals based on quality metrics. CRMH has a CMS star rating, reflecting its overall performance. While this rating offers a general overview of quality, it's essential to delve deeper into specific metrics relevant to breast cancer care. These metrics include:

* **Screening Mammography Rates:** High rates of screening mammography are crucial for early detection. CRMH’s mammography screening rates are publicly available and should be reviewed.
* **Timeliness of Diagnosis:** The speed with which a diagnosis is made after a suspicious finding is critical.
* **Treatment Adherence:** Adherence to recommended treatment guidelines, such as timely surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is an important indicator of quality.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are an important consideration, particularly for patients experiencing complications related to cancer treatment. CRMH's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through third-party websites that track ER wait times. The wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Specialty Centers and Programs at CRMH**

CRMH's cancer program includes specialized centers and programs dedicated to various cancer types, including breast cancer. These centers often offer:

* **Multidisciplinary Clinics:** Where patients can see multiple specialists in one visit, streamlining the care process.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to cutting-edge research and treatment options.
* **Support Services:** Such as counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. CRMH has telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations with oncologists, which can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital. Telehealth can reduce travel burdens and provide access to specialists. The hospital's website provides details on the availability of telehealth services.

**Holston Valley Medical Center: A Regional Alternative**

Holston Valley Medical Center, part of Ballad Health, is located in Kingsport, Tennessee, which is within a reasonable driving distance for some residents near ZIP code 24283. Holston Valley also offers a comprehensive cancer program with a dedicated breast care center.

**Ballad Health's Approach**

Ballad Health's cancer program at Holston Valley provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. They have a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics at Holston Valley**

Holston Valley Medical Center also has a CMS star rating. It is crucial to review the hospital's performance on breast cancer-specific quality metrics. This includes mammography screening rates, timeliness of diagnosis, treatment adherence, and patient satisfaction.

**ER Wait Times at Holston Valley**

ER wait times at Holston Valley Medical Center are an important factor to consider. These times can be found on the hospital's website or through third-party websites.

**Specialty Centers and Programs at Holston Valley**

Holston Valley's cancer program includes specialized centers and programs for breast cancer care. These centers often offer multidisciplinary clinics, clinical trials, and support services.

**Telehealth Capabilities at Holston Valley**

Holston Valley has telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations with oncologists. These services can be beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital.

**Comparing the Options**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care involves a careful comparison of several factors:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for appointments and treatments?
* **Comprehensive Services:** Does the hospital offer the full range of services you need, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care?
* **Specialized Expertise:** Does the hospital have experienced breast cancer specialists?
* **Quality Metrics:** What are the hospital's performance ratings on key quality indicators?
* **Patient Experience:** What is the hospital's reputation for patient satisfaction?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services to reduce travel burdens?

**Making an Informed Decision**

For residents near ZIP code 24283, the choice of a hospital for breast cancer care often involves a balance between proximity and access to specialized services. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, with its comprehensive cancer program, is a leading option. Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, provides another regional alternative with a robust cancer program.

Patients should actively research the hospitals' websites, consult with their primary care physicians, and seek second opinions to make an informed decision. It is also essential to discuss treatment options and preferences with the medical team to ensure the best possible care.