24375, Sugar Grove, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24375, Sugar Grove, Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24375

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision, especially when facing a diagnosis. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 24375 (Wytheville, Virginia), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer treatment, including quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. While proximity is a factor, this analysis prioritizes data to empower informed choices.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Before diving into specific hospitals, it's crucial to understand the factors that contribute to high-quality breast cancer care. These include:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care, including multidisciplinary teams, comprehensive treatment planning, and patient support services.
* **Specialized Centers:** Dedicated breast cancer centers often offer a more focused approach, with specialized expertise in diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Effective breast cancer care involves a team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, and support staff, working collaboratively.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced imaging (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical techniques (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery), and radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like IMRT and brachytherapy) is essential.
* **Patient Support:** Comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, financial assistance, and survivorship programs, are vital for patient well-being.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth offers convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources, particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas.

**Hospital Profiles: Data-Driven Analysis**

The following analysis examines hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of ZIP code 24375, considering publicly available data. Note that data availability can vary, and this review relies on the most recent information available.

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

Located approximately 40 miles from Wytheville, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC) is a significant regional healthcare provider. NRVMC is part of the larger Carilion Clinic system.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NRVMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** NRVMC offers a range of breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. They likely collaborate with the Carilion Clinic Cancer Center, which provides comprehensive cancer care across the system.
* **Accreditation:** Information regarding specific breast center accreditation (e.g., CoC accreditation) should be confirmed directly with the hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average ER wait time at NRVMC is an important factor to consider. Publicly available data, such as that from the CMS Hospital Compare website or third-party sources like Healthgrades, can provide insights into average wait times. This information can be critical in an emergency.
* **Telehealth:** Carilion Clinic, as a system, has invested in telehealth services. Patients should inquire about telehealth options for breast cancer consultations and follow-up appointments.

**2. LewisGale Medical Center (Salem, VA):**

LewisGale Medical Center, located in Salem, Virginia, is another option, roughly 70 miles from Wytheville.

* **CMS Star Rating:** LewisGale Medical Center's CMS star rating should be reviewed to assess overall hospital quality.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** LewisGale offers breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and medical oncology. Information on specific breast center accreditation and the availability of a multidisciplinary team should be confirmed with the hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor. Check publicly available data from sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website or Healthgrades for average wait times.
* **Telehealth:** Inquire about telehealth options for breast cancer consultations and follow-up appointments.

**3. Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon, VA):**

Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, VA is approximately 60 miles from Wytheville.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Review Johnston Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Investigate the hospital's breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, and medical oncology. Confirm specific breast center accreditation and the availability of a multidisciplinary team.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check publicly available data for ER wait times.
* **Telehealth:** Inquire about telehealth options for breast cancer consultations and follow-up appointments.

**4. University of Virginia Health System (Charlottesville, VA):**

While further afield (approximately 200 miles), the University of Virginia Health System (UVA Health) in Charlottesville is a major academic medical center that warrants consideration, particularly for complex cases or when seeking access to cutting-edge treatments.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UVA Health's CMS star rating should be reviewed.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** UVA Health has a dedicated cancer center that offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced imaging, surgical options (including complex reconstructive surgery), medical oncology, radiation oncology, and clinical trials.
* **Accreditation:** UVA Health's cancer center is likely accredited by the ACS CoC, indicating a commitment to high-quality care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Given its size, ER wait times at UVA Health can vary. Check publicly available data for average wait times.
* **Telehealth:** UVA Health has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas.
* **Specialty Centers:** UVA Health often houses specialty centers for specific cancer types, and the breast cancer program is likely highly specialized.
* **Clinical Trials:** UVA Health participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative treatments.

**5. Duke University Health System (Durham, NC):**

Duke University Health System, located in Durham, North Carolina, is another major academic medical center, approximately 270 miles from Wytheville. It is included here because of its reputation for excellence in cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Review Duke's CMS star rating.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Duke Cancer Institute offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials.
* **Accreditation:** Duke Cancer Institute is likely accredited by the ACS CoC.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Check publicly available data for average wait times.
* **Telehealth:** Duke has a robust telehealth program.
* **Specialty Centers:** Duke has specialized breast cancer centers.
* **Clinical Trials:** Duke is a leader in clinical trials.

**6. Wake Forest Baptist Health (Winston-Salem, NC):**

Wake Forest Baptist Health, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is another major academic medical center, approximately 180 miles from Wytheville.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Review Wake Forest Baptist Health's CMS star rating.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Wake Forest Baptist Health offers comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials.
* **Accreditation:** Wake Forest Baptist Health is likely accredited by the ACS CoC.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Check publicly available data for average wait times.
* **Telehealth:** Wake Forest Baptist Health has a robust telehealth program.
* **Specialty Centers:** Wake Forest Baptist Health has specialized breast cancer centers.
* **Clinical Trials:** Wake Forest Baptist Health is a leader in clinical trials.

**Evaluating the Data: Making Informed Decisions**

When comparing hospitals, consider the following:

* **Quality Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality.
* **Accreditation:** CoC accreditation signifies adherence to high standards of care.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of a dedicated breast cancer center and a multidisciplinary team is crucial.
* **Technology:** Access to advanced imaging and treatment options is essential.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times, especially if you anticipate needing emergency care.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.
* **Patient Reviews:** Explore patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like location, ease of access, and the overall environment of the hospital.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 24375, based on publicly available data. However, it's essential to conduct further research, including contacting the hospitals directly to gather specific information about their services, accreditations, and patient support programs. Consult with your primary care physician and, if applicable, your oncologist to discuss your individual needs and preferences. The best hospital is the one that provides the highest quality of care, aligns with your personal preferences, and supports you throughout your journey.