24265, Keokee, Virginia COPD Score Hospital Score

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

## COPD Care in Southwest Virginia: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24265

The rugged beauty of Southwest Virginia, encompassing ZIP code 24265 (Lebanon, VA), presents unique challenges for residents managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Factors like rurality, aging populations, and potential exposure to environmental irritants can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Access to quality healthcare, especially for COPD management, is therefore crucial. This review examines the hospitals closest to 24265, focusing on their capabilities in COPD care, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The primary hospitals serving the 24265 area are located in Lebanon itself, as well as nearby towns like Abingdon and Bristol. These facilities represent the core of the healthcare infrastructure for COPD patients in the region. The primary focus will be on the following hospitals, ranked by proximity and influence:

* **Russell County Medical Center (RCMC), Lebanon, VA:** Located directly in Lebanon, RCMC is the closest hospital.
* **Johnston Memorial Hospital, Abingdon, VA:** A larger regional hospital, approximately 30 minutes from Lebanon.
* **Bristol Regional Medical Center, Bristol, VA:** A larger hospital system, about 45 minutes away.

**Russell County Medical Center (RCMC):**

RCMC is the closest option for residents of Lebanon. As a critical access hospital, RCMC is designed to serve the immediate healthcare needs of the community. Its CMS star rating is currently unavailable, and this is common for smaller hospitals. The hospital's website doesn't provide specific COPD-focused programs or clinics. However, it likely offers standard COPD management, including pulmonary function testing, medication management, and oxygen therapy.

ER wait times at RCMC are generally shorter than at larger hospitals. The most recent data indicates average wait times are under 30 minutes, which is a significant advantage for patients experiencing acute COPD exacerbations. RCMC's size means that it may not have the same level of specialized services as larger regional facilities. Telehealth capabilities are likely limited, but RCMC may offer some telehealth consultations with specialists through partnerships with larger healthcare systems.

**Johnston Memorial Hospital (JM):**

Located in Abingdon, JM is a larger hospital than RCMC and serves a wider geographical area. It is part of the Ballad Health system. JM's CMS star rating is not currently available. The hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a dedicated pulmonary medicine department. The pulmonary department provides diagnostic testing, treatment for a range of lung conditions, and respiratory therapy services.

JM’s ER wait times are generally longer than RCMC, but they are usually under an hour. The hospital's website indicates a focus on chronic disease management, including COPD. The hospital has a pulmonary rehabilitation program, which is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. This program provides supervised exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

Telehealth plays a more significant role at JM than at RCMC. The hospital offers telehealth consultations with specialists, including pulmonologists, potentially reducing the need for travel for follow-up appointments and specialist consultations.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (BRMC):**

BRMC, also part of the Ballad Health system, is located in Bristol, VA, and is a larger regional hospital. BRMC has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This indicates a level of quality and patient satisfaction, although it is not the highest possible rating. BRMC offers a full spectrum of pulmonary services, including advanced diagnostic testing, interventional pulmonology procedures, and intensive care for respiratory emergencies.

ER wait times at BRMC are typically longer than at both RCMC and JM, often exceeding an hour. However, the hospital’s capacity and resources are designed to handle more complex cases. BRMC has a dedicated pulmonary rehabilitation program, similar to JM, providing comprehensive care to COPD patients.

BRMC is a leader in telehealth services within the region. The hospital offers a wide range of telehealth options, including remote patient monitoring for COPD patients. This allows for regular monitoring of vital signs and symptoms, enabling early intervention and preventing hospital readmissions. BRMC also offers telehealth consultations with specialists, increasing access to expertise for patients in rural areas.

**Specialty Centers and Pulmonary Rehabilitation:**

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are a cornerstone of COPD management. Both JM and BRMC have well-established programs. These programs typically involve supervised exercise, education about COPD, breathing techniques, and nutritional counseling. These programs are essential for improving lung function, reducing symptoms, and enhancing the overall quality of life for COPD patients.

The availability of specialty centers is another important factor. While specific COPD-focused specialty centers may not be present at all hospitals, the presence of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and access to advanced diagnostic testing are crucial. Both JM and BRMC have dedicated pulmonary departments with specialists who can provide comprehensive COPD care.

**Telehealth in the Region:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. BRMC is leading the way in telehealth services, offering remote patient monitoring and telehealth consultations. JM also provides telehealth options, albeit to a lesser extent. Telehealth allows patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for COPD patients, especially during acute exacerbations. Shorter wait times can mean faster access to treatment, potentially preventing serious complications. RCMC generally has the shortest ER wait times, making it a potentially advantageous option for immediate care. However, the availability of specialized services and the expertise of the medical staff should also be considered.

**Medication and Management:**

All hospitals offer medication management for COPD. This includes prescribing and monitoring bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and other medications used to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. The availability of respiratory therapists is crucial for providing education on proper inhaler technique and assisting patients with breathing exercises.

**The Importance of Patient Education:**

Patient education is a critical component of COPD management. Hospitals should provide educational resources on topics such as medication management, breathing techniques, and lifestyle modifications. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs often include educational components, helping patients to understand their condition and take an active role in their care.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of ZIP code 24265, access to quality COPD care depends on several factors. RCMC offers the advantage of proximity and shorter ER wait times. JM and BRMC, as larger regional hospitals, provide a wider range of specialized services, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs and telehealth options. BRMC, with its 3-star CMS rating, is a good option. Patients should consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital for COPD care. Factors to consider include the severity of their condition, the need for specialized services, and the importance of telehealth options. Consulting with a primary care physician or pulmonologist is essential to determine the most appropriate course of treatment and to ensure access to the best possible care. The presence of pulmonary rehabilitation programs at JM and BRMC is a significant advantage for patients seeking comprehensive COPD management. The increasing availability of telehealth services, particularly at BRMC, offers a valuable resource for patients in rural areas, improving access to care and promoting self-management of their condition.