36360, Ozark, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36360, Ozark, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in Enterprise, Alabama: A Deep Dive for Patients Near 36360**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right medical care, especially in a rural area, requires diligent research. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP code 36360), focusing on lung cancer treatment capabilities, accessibility, and key performance indicators. The goal is to empower patients and their families to make informed decisions.

**The Local Landscape: Hospitals and Their Offerings**

Enterprise, Alabama, is primarily served by two main hospitals: Medical Center Enterprise (MCE) and Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan. While larger metropolitan areas offer a wider range of specialized cancer centers, understanding the strengths and limitations of these local options is crucial.

**Medical Center Enterprise (MCE): A Community Focus**

Medical Center Enterprise (MCE) is a community hospital serving Enterprise and the surrounding areas. MCE is not a designated flagship cancer center, and it does not have a dedicated lung cancer specialty center. MCE's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is not publicly available, which can make it difficult to assess quality. MCE does offer general oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but the scope and sophistication of these services are typically less than those found at larger, specialized cancer centers.

**Emergency Room Wait Times at MCE**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for anyone experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer, such as sudden shortness of breath or severe chest pain. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate and are not always readily available, general wait time data for MCE can be found on websites like ER Wait Times. These sites provide estimates based on historical data. It is essential to understand that these are estimates and can vary considerably.

**Telehealth at MCE**

Telehealth is increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. MCE offers telehealth services, including consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. The availability of telehealth can be a significant advantage, reducing the need for frequent travel to specialists, which can be a major barrier for patients living in rural areas. Information on the specific telehealth services offered, including which specialists are available via telehealth and the types of appointments offered, can be found on the hospital's website or by contacting the hospital directly.

**Southeast Health Medical Center, Dothan: A Regional Hub**

Southeast Health Medical Center in Dothan, approximately a 30-minute drive from Enterprise, is a larger regional medical center. Southeast Health is a more comprehensive facility than MCE and provides a broader range of services, including a dedicated cancer center. Southeast Health is not a flagship cancer center, but it does have a well-established cancer program, including lung cancer treatment.

**Southeast Health Cancer Center**

The Southeast Health Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The center provides chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The center employs medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists who focus on lung cancer treatment.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators**

Southeast Health Medical Center has a CMS star rating, which is an important indicator of overall hospital quality. The CMS star rating provides a snapshot of a hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. Examining the CMS star rating for Southeast Health and comparing it to other hospitals in the region can provide valuable insight into the quality of care.

**ER Wait Times at Southeast Health**

ER wait times at Southeast Health are generally longer than those at MCE, reflecting the hospital's larger size and the broader range of services it provides. Real-time ER wait times can be found on websites like ER Wait Times. However, it is essential to recognize that these are estimates and that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Telehealth at Southeast Health**

Southeast Health offers a more extensive telehealth program than MCE. The hospital provides telehealth consultations with specialists, including oncologists and pulmonologists. Telehealth services at Southeast Health are particularly valuable for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel to appointments. The hospital's website and patient services representatives can provide detailed information on the telehealth services offered, including which specialists are available and the types of appointments offered.

**Beyond Enterprise: Considering Regional Options**

While MCE and Southeast Health are the primary local options, patients should consider regional centers, especially if they require highly specialized care.

**University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital**

UAB Hospital, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. UAB offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatment options, including advanced surgical techniques, cutting-edge radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. UAB's lung cancer program is staffed by a team of highly specialized physicians, including thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pulmonologists.

**Travel Considerations for UAB**

The distance from Enterprise to Birmingham is approximately 170 miles, a drive of about three hours. This travel time can be a significant factor for patients and their families, especially those undergoing frequent treatments. However, the specialized care offered at UAB may be necessary for some patients.

**Other Regional Options**

Other regional hospitals that may offer lung cancer treatment include hospitals in Pensacola, Florida, and Tallahassee, Florida. These hospitals may provide specialized services and access to clinical trials.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

* **Stage of Cancer:** The stage of lung cancer significantly influences treatment decisions. Early-stage cancers may be treated with surgery and radiation therapy, while advanced-stage cancers often require chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Histology:** The type of lung cancer (e.g., non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer) determines the most effective treatment options.
* **Patient's Overall Health:** A patient's overall health and other medical conditions can affect treatment decisions.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer patients access to innovative treatments and can improve outcomes.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and support groups, is essential for patients and their families.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital and treatment plan is a personal decision. Patients should consult with their primary care physician, pulmonologist, and oncologist to discuss their specific needs and preferences. Researching hospitals, reviewing their performance indicators, and understanding the available treatment options are crucial steps in this process. This review provides a starting point for patients near 36360. However, it is essential to conduct thorough research and seek professional medical advice to make the best possible decisions.