36374, Skipperville, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36374, Skipperville, Alabama is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Ozarks: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 36374

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care, particularly in rural areas, is critical. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36374), providing a fact-rich overview of their lung cancer services, emphasizing accessibility, expertise, and performance metrics. While this review aims to be comprehensive, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**Proximity and Accessibility:**

Enterprise, Alabama, sits in Coffee County, serving a population that relies on regional healthcare providers. The nearest major medical centers are in Dothan, approximately 30 miles southeast, and Montgomery, about 100 miles north. Travel time is a crucial factor, especially during emergencies or for frequent appointments. This review considers hospitals in both locations.

**Southeast Health (Dothan): A Flagship for the Region**

Southeast Health, located in Dothan, is a primary contender for lung cancer care in the area. It is the largest hospital in the region, serving as a regional referral center. While the exact CMS star rating fluctuates, Southeast Health consistently strives for high performance. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Kelley L. and Billy J. Harrell Cancer Center, which is a significant asset.

Southeast Health's emergency room wait times are a critical consideration. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's essential to monitor the ER wait times on platforms like Google or hospital websites. Long wait times can be detrimental in time-sensitive situations. Southeast Health also offers telehealth services, which can be invaluable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists. The availability and scope of these services should be investigated directly with the hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise at Southeast Health:**

Southeast Health boasts a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This means patients benefit from a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and support staff. The presence of these specialists under one roof facilitates coordinated care and reduces the burden on patients.

The Harrell Cancer Center provides comprehensive services, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. They also offer support services such as patient navigation, counseling, and support groups. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, is crucial in modern lung cancer care. Patients should inquire about the specific therapies available and the hospital's participation in clinical trials.

**Flowers Hospital (Dothan): Another Dothan Option**

Flowers Hospital, also located in Dothan, is another option for lung cancer care. It is a for-profit hospital, and its CMS star rating is subject to change. Flowers Hospital also offers a cancer center, and it is important to compare the resources and services offered by both Southeast Health and Flowers Hospital.

Flowers Hospital's emergency room wait times are also a factor to consider. Again, real-time data should be checked online or by phone. Telehealth services may also be available.

**Comparing Resources and Expertise:**

When comparing Southeast Health and Flowers Hospital, patients should consider the following:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the qualifications and experience of the pulmonologists, medical oncologists, and surgeons at each hospital.
* **Technology:** Inquire about the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as robotic surgery, advanced radiation therapy techniques (e.g., IMRT, SBRT), and genomic testing.
* **Clinical Trials:** Determine if the hospital participates in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of patient navigation, counseling, support groups, and other resources.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the overall patient experience.

**Beyond Dothan: Exploring Options in Montgomery**

While Dothan offers closer options, patients may consider hospitals in Montgomery, particularly for specialized care or second opinions. The drive to Montgomery is longer, but the potential for access to a broader range of expertise and resources is worth considering.

**Baptist Medical Center South (Montgomery): A Major Medical Center**

Baptist Medical Center South is a large, well-regarded hospital in Montgomery. It is a major medical center with a comprehensive cancer program. Its CMS star rating should be checked, as it is an indicator of overall quality.

Baptist Medical Center South likely has a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They are likely to offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital's ER wait times and telehealth availability should be investigated.

**Other Montgomery Hospitals:**

Other hospitals in Montgomery may offer cancer care services. Researching these options, including their CMS star ratings, services, and specialties, is important.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients:**

Regardless of the hospital chosen, lung cancer patients should prioritize the following:

* **Early Detection:** If you are at high risk (smoker, former smoker, family history), discuss lung cancer screening with your doctor. Low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer early, when it is more treatable.
* **Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another oncologist, especially if you are unsure about your treatment plan.
* **Communication:** Maintain open communication with your medical team. Ask questions, express your concerns, and understand your treatment options.
* **Support:** Lean on your support network, including family, friends, and support groups.
* **Financial Assistance:** Explore financial assistance programs to help with the cost of treatment.

**Telehealth's Role:**

Telehealth is increasingly important. Inquire about the availability of virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups. Telehealth can reduce travel burdens and improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a significant decision. This review provides a starting point for researching hospitals near ZIP Code 36374. Southeast Health and Flowers Hospital in Dothan are the closest options, while hospitals in Montgomery offer a wider range of services. Patients should carefully evaluate each hospital's resources, expertise, and performance metrics, considering factors like ER wait times, telehealth availability, and the presence of specialized centers. Most importantly, patients should actively participate in their care, seeking second opinions, asking questions, and advocating for their needs. The best hospital is the one that offers the most comprehensive, compassionate, and accessible care for the individual patient.