24350, Ivanhoe, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24350, Ivanhoe, Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24350**

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality healthcare, particularly specialized breast cancer care, is paramount. This review assesses hospitals near ZIP code 24350, focusing on factors crucial for patients: hospital quality, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information, while not a substitute for medical advice, aims to provide a starting point for informed decision-making.

**Defining the Scope**

ZIP code 24350 primarily encompasses the city of Marion, Virginia, and its surrounding areas in Smyth County. Due to the rural nature of this region, the availability of specialized healthcare services can be limited. This review will consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in travel time and accessibility.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality and patient experience. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall hospital performance.

**Smyth County Community Hospital (Marion, VA):** This hospital, located directly within the 24350 ZIP code, is a key healthcare provider for the local community. As of the latest available data, Smyth County Community Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. This is not necessarily indicative of poor quality, as not all hospitals are rated. Patients should research the hospital's specific services and accreditations.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (Christiansburg, VA):** Approximately an hour's drive from Marion, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center is a larger hospital within the Carilion Clinic network. Carilion Clinic hospitals generally have a good reputation in the region. As of the latest data, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center has a CMS rating of 3 stars. This rating suggests an average level of performance compared to other hospitals nationally.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski (Pulaski, VA):** Located roughly 45 minutes from Marion, LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski is another option for residents in the area. LewisGale Hospital – Pulaski currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This hospital is part of the LewisGale Regional Health System, offering a range of services.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

ER wait times are a critical factor during a medical emergency. Longer wait times can lead to increased anxiety and potentially delayed treatment. Data on ER wait times can vary and is often subject to change.

**Smyth County Community Hospital:** Data on ER wait times at Smyth County Community Hospital is readily available. Patients can check the hospital's website or utilize online tools that track real-time wait times.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center:** Carilion Clinic hospitals, including Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, typically provide ER wait time information on their website. Patients should check the site for the most up-to-date information.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski:** Like Carilion, LewisGale Hospital – Pulaski often publishes ER wait time data on its website or through online resources.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Services**

Specialized breast cancer centers offer comprehensive care, including early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship programs. The presence of a dedicated breast center is a significant advantage.

**Smyth County Community Hospital:** While Smyth County Community Hospital provides essential healthcare services, it may not have a dedicated, full-fledged breast cancer center. Patients seeking specialized breast cancer services might need to consider hospitals with more comprehensive programs.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center:** Carilion Clinic hospitals, including Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, often have robust cancer care programs. Patients should investigate the availability of breast imaging services (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services like genetic counseling and patient navigation.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski:** LewisGale Hospital – Pulaski is likely to have breast cancer services. Patients should research the availability of breast imaging services (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services like genetic counseling and patient navigation.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas, providing access to specialists and follow-up care.

**Smyth County Community Hospital:** The availability of telehealth services at Smyth County Community Hospital may be limited. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center:** Carilion Clinic is known for its investment in telehealth. Patients should check the Carilion Clinic website for information on telehealth services offered by Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, including virtual appointments with oncologists, breast surgeons, and other specialists.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski:** LewisGale Hospital – Pulaski likely offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with oncologists, breast surgeons, and other specialists. Patients should check the hospital's website for details.

**Specific Services to Investigate**

When researching hospitals, patients should inquire about the following breast cancer services:

* **Screening and Diagnostics:** Mammography (2D and 3D), breast ultrasound, MRI, and biopsy capabilities.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Availability of breast surgeons specializing in various surgical techniques, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel node biopsy.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to medical oncologists who administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of radiation therapy services, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Does the hospital offer a multidisciplinary team approach, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists who collaborate on treatment plans?
* **Support Services:** Availability of patient navigators, support groups, genetic counseling, and rehabilitation services.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments.

**Additional Considerations**

* **Accreditations:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC), which indicates a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its providers accept your insurance plan.
* **Travel Distance:** Consider the travel time and ease of access to the hospital, especially for frequent appointments.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. While Smyth County Community Hospital provides local healthcare, patients may need to consider hospitals in nearby cities like Christiansburg and Pulaski for more specialized breast cancer services. Carilion New River Valley Medical Center and LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski offer more comprehensive care options. Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, the availability of specialized breast cancer services, and telehealth capabilities. By gathering this information and consulting with their primary care physician, patients can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care.