36605, Mobile, Alabama Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 36605, Mobile, Alabama is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Heart of Mobile: A Hospital Scorecard for 36605

The battle against lung cancer is a complex one, demanding access to cutting-edge treatments, experienced specialists, and a supportive care environment. For residents of Mobile, Alabama, specifically those residing near the 36605 ZIP code, navigating the healthcare landscape to find the best options for lung cancer care is crucial. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of the major hospitals in and around this area, focusing on metrics vital to lung cancer patients.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 36605 ZIP code sits in the heart of Mobile, Alabama, a city with a rich history and a growing population. Access to quality healthcare is paramount, and the hospitals in the region offer a range of services. However, the quality of care can vary significantly. This review examines key indicators, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to provide a comprehensive overview for potential patients.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**University Hospital (USA Health):** Located within the 36604 ZIP code, just adjacent to 36605, University Hospital is the flagship facility of USA Health. It's a major player in the region, and its performance in lung cancer care is a critical consideration. University Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper into specific areas.

**University Hospital and Lung Cancer:** University Hospital boasts a dedicated oncology department, which is crucial for lung cancer patients. They offer a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The hospital also has a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, working collaboratively to develop personalized treatment plans. Telehealth services are available, which can be a significant advantage for follow-up appointments and consultations, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. However, specific telehealth statistics related to lung cancer care are not readily available publicly.

**ER Wait Times at University Hospital:** ER wait times are a critical factor, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website indicates that the median ER wait time at University Hospital is approximately 30-45 minutes. This is a relatively average wait time compared to other hospitals in the region. However, it's important to note that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Infirmary Medical Center:** Located in the 36604 ZIP code, Infirmary Medical Center is another major hospital serving the Mobile area. It is part of the Infirmary Health System, a large and well-regarded healthcare provider in the region. Infirmary Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to University Hospital.

**Infirmary Medical Center and Lung Cancer:** Infirmary Medical Center also offers a comprehensive oncology program. They provide a range of services, including diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lung cancer. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center with experienced oncologists, surgeons, and support staff. They offer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions, including minimally invasive techniques. Telehealth services are available, though specific statistics on their utilization for lung cancer patients are not publicly available.

**ER Wait Times at Infirmary Medical Center:** Data from CMS Hospital Compare indicates that the median ER wait time at Infirmary Medical Center is approximately 30-45 minutes, similar to University Hospital. This is a critical factor for patients experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Technologies:**

Both University Hospital and Infirmary Medical Center have made investments in specialized centers and advanced technologies. These investments are crucial for providing the best possible care for lung cancer patients.

**University Hospital:** University Hospital has a dedicated cancer center equipped with advanced imaging technologies, including CT scans, PET scans, and MRI. They also offer advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Infirmary Medical Center:** Infirmary Medical Center also has a cancer center with advanced imaging and treatment capabilities. They offer a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. They have invested in advanced technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgery, which can be used for lung cancer procedures.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for patients with chronic conditions like lung cancer. Both University Hospital and Infirmary Medical Center offer telehealth services, providing patients with remote access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.

**University Hospital:** University Hospital offers telehealth services through its various departments. Patients can access virtual appointments with their oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists. This is especially beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have difficulty traveling.

**Infirmary Medical Center:** Infirmary Medical Center also provides telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely. They offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Considerations**

While University Hospital and Infirmary Medical Center are the primary hospitals serving the 36605 ZIP code, other facilities in the broader Mobile area can also play a role in lung cancer care.

**Other Hospitals:** Other hospitals in the area, such as Providence Hospital (located in the 36606 ZIP code) and Springhill Medical Center (located in the 36608 ZIP code), may offer some services relevant to lung cancer care. However, they may not have the same comprehensive oncology programs or advanced technologies as the flagship hospitals. It's essential to research the specific services offered by each hospital and consider factors such as physician experience, patient outcomes, and access to specialized treatments.

**Physician Experience and Patient Outcomes:**

The experience of the physicians and the patient outcomes are paramount in lung cancer care. Researching the qualifications and experience of the oncologists, pulmonologists, and surgeons at each hospital is essential. Inquire about the number of lung cancer cases treated annually and the hospital's success rates for different treatment modalities. Publicly available data on patient outcomes, such as survival rates and complication rates, can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website, but these are often limited in their specificity.

**Access to Clinical Trials:**

Access to clinical trials is another important consideration for lung cancer patients. Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments and can improve patient outcomes. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital and whether the hospital is participating in any lung cancer research programs.

**Support Services:**

Lung cancer patients often need comprehensive support services, including counseling, support groups, and palliative care. Inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital. These services can help patients cope with the emotional and physical challenges of lung cancer.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the 36605 ZIP code, choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. University Hospital and Infirmary Medical Center, both located in the adjacent 36604 ZIP code, are the primary contenders, offering comprehensive oncology programs, advanced technologies, and telehealth services. Both have a 3-star rating from CMS, indicating average performance. However, it is crucial to research physician experience, patient outcomes, access to clinical trials, and support services to make an informed decision. ER wait times are similar at both hospitals. Consider the specific needs of the patient and the availability of specialized treatments and support services when making this crucial decision.