24361, Meadowview, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24361, Meadowview, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in the Shadow of the Blue Ridge: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24361**

The pursuit of optimal breast cancer care requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing early detection, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support. For residents near ZIP code 24361, nestled in the heart of Southwest Virginia, access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review delves into the breast cancer resources available at hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, providing a factual overview of their capabilities, performance metrics, and patient experience.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The region surrounding ZIP code 24361, encompassing Pulaski, Wythe, and surrounding counties, presents a unique healthcare landscape. While major metropolitan centers like Roanoke and Winston-Salem offer comprehensive cancer centers, local hospitals play a crucial role in providing accessible care. The availability of specialized services, such as advanced imaging and surgical expertise, varies across institutions. Factors like physician experience, technological infrastructure, and patient satisfaction all contribute to the overall quality of care.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (Christiansburg, VA)**

Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC) in Christiansburg, VA, serves as a primary healthcare provider for residents in and around ZIP code 24361. While not a dedicated cancer center, NRVMC offers a range of services relevant to breast cancer care. The hospital provides mammography screenings, diagnostic imaging, and surgical services, including breast biopsies.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NRVMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at NRVMC can fluctuate. Data from recent months indicates an average wait time of approximately 30-60 minutes, although this can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume.
* **Telehealth:** NRVMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations with specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations with oncologists or breast surgeons.
* **Specialty Centers:** NRVMC doesn't have a dedicated breast cancer center, but it does have access to Carilion Clinic's broader network, which includes cancer care services.

**LewisGale Hospital Pulaski (Pulaski, VA)**

Located in Pulaski, VA, LewisGale Hospital Pulaski provides healthcare services to the local community. The hospital offers breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, including mammography and ultrasound.

* **CMS Star Rating:** LewisGale Hospital Pulaski has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at LewisGale Hospital Pulaski vary. Recent data suggests average wait times of approximately 45-75 minutes.
* **Telehealth:** LewisGale Hospital Pulaski offers some telehealth options, including virtual consultations with certain specialists.
* **Specialty Centers:** While not a dedicated cancer center, LewisGale Hospital Pulaski offers oncology services.

**Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (Roanoke, VA)**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, located in Roanoke, VA, represents a more comprehensive option for breast cancer care. As a flagship hospital within the Carilion Clinic system, it offers a broader range of services and expertise.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital can be longer than those at smaller hospitals. Average wait times are typically around 60-90 minutes, but can be longer during peak hours.
* **Telehealth:** Carilion Clinic has a robust telehealth program, including virtual appointments with oncologists, breast surgeons, and other specialists.
* **Specialty Centers:** Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital houses the Carilion Clinic Cancer Center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This center provides advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. The Cancer Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by a team of experienced specialists.
* **Breast Cancer Specific Services:** The Carilion Clinic Cancer Center provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging (including 3D mammography), breast biopsies, surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health – Lexington Medical Center (Lexington, NC)**

For residents willing to travel a bit further, Wake Forest Baptist Health – Lexington Medical Center in Lexington, NC, provides another option for breast cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Lexington Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Lexington Medical Center are typically around 45-75 minutes.
* **Telehealth:** Wake Forest Baptist Health offers telehealth options, including virtual consultations.
* **Specialty Centers:** Lexington Medical Center provides oncology services.

**The Importance of Early Detection and Screening**

Regular mammograms and breast self-exams are crucial for early detection of breast cancer. The hospitals in the region offer screening mammography services, and it's essential for women to adhere to recommended screening guidelines. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.

**The Role of Multidisciplinary Care**

Effective breast cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving a team of specialists. This team may include a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, pathologist, radiologist, and other healthcare professionals. Hospitals with dedicated cancer centers, like Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, are better equipped to provide this coordinated care.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Beyond medical treatments, patient experience and support services play a vital role in the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. These services may include patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and access to resources like financial assistance and transportation. When choosing a hospital, it's important to consider the availability of these supportive services.

**Considering Your Options**

For residents near ZIP code 24361, the choice of where to receive breast cancer care depends on individual needs and preferences. NRVMC and LewisGale Hospital Pulaski offer accessible local services, while Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital provides a more comprehensive approach with a dedicated cancer center. The distance to Wake Forest Baptist Health – Lexington Medical Center might be a factor.

**Conclusion**

The hospitals near ZIP code 24361 offer a range of options for breast cancer care. While local hospitals provide essential services, Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, with its Cancer Center, offers a more comprehensive and specialized approach. Residents should consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and the availability of supportive services when making their healthcare decisions. Regular screenings, early detection, and access to qualified healthcare professionals are all critical components of successful breast cancer treatment and management.