20012, Washington, District of Columbia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20012, Washington, District of Columbia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Hospital Scorecard Near 20012

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review analyzes hospitals near the 20012 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized cancer centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information, while not exhaustive, provides a starting point for patients and their families navigating this complex healthcare landscape.

**Georgetown University Hospital (Washington, D.C.)**

Georgetown University Hospital, a prominent institution in the region, offers a comprehensive cancer program. While specific lung cancer survival rates and volumes are best obtained directly from the hospital, it's important to understand the general strengths. Georgetown's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated center, signifying a commitment to cutting-edge research and advanced treatment options. This designation often translates to access to clinical trials and innovative therapies.

Georgetown's CMS star rating, a publicly available measure of overall hospital quality, can fluctuate. Checking the latest rating on the Medicare.gov website is essential. ER wait times are another crucial factor. The average wait time can vary, so consulting the hospital's website or a third-party source like Google Maps for real-time estimates is recommended. Georgetown has a robust telehealth program, crucial for follow-up appointments and consultations, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of telehealth services for oncology patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**MedStar Washington Hospital Center (Washington, D.C.)**

MedStar Washington Hospital Center, another major player in the Washington, D.C. area, also provides lung cancer care. The hospital's cancer program is a significant component of its overall services. Similar to Georgetown, the hospital's specific lung cancer survival rates and treatment volumes are best obtained directly from the hospital. The hospital's affiliation with the MedStar Health system offers access to a network of specialists and resources.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center's CMS star rating should be verified on the Medicare.gov website. ER wait times are another factor to consider. The hospital's website or third-party sources can provide estimates. Telehealth services are increasingly important, and the availability of telehealth for oncology patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Sibley Memorial Hospital (Washington, D.C.)**

Sibley Memorial Hospital, part of the Johns Hopkins Medicine system, is another hospital option near the 20012 ZIP code. The hospital offers lung cancer treatment as part of its broader oncology services. While specific lung cancer survival rates and treatment volumes are best obtained directly from the hospital, the affiliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine provides access to advanced medical expertise.

Sibley Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating should be checked on the Medicare.gov website. ER wait times are another crucial consideration. The hospital's website or third-party sources can provide estimates. The availability of telehealth services for oncology patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital (Falls Church, VA - Outside 20012 but Relevant)**

While located outside the 20012 ZIP code, Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia, is a major regional medical center and warrants consideration for lung cancer treatment. Inova Fairfax Hospital is a large, comprehensive hospital with a dedicated cancer center. The Inova Schar Cancer Institute is a significant resource for cancer patients in the region.

Inova Fairfax Hospital's CMS star rating should be verified on the Medicare.gov website. ER wait times are another crucial factor. The hospital's website or third-party sources can provide estimates. Inova has invested heavily in telehealth, and the availability of telehealth services for oncology patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Treatment**

Beyond the specific hospitals, several general factors are crucial when choosing a lung cancer treatment center.

**Specialized Cancer Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated cancer centers, particularly those designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI-designated centers often have access to the latest research, clinical trials, and advanced treatment options.

**Multidisciplinary Teams:** Effective lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. Ensure the hospital has a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, and supportive care staff (nurses, social workers, etc.).

**Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Access to clinical trials is also a significant advantage.

**Technology and Equipment:** State-of-the-art technology is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. This includes advanced imaging techniques (CT scans, PET scans), minimally invasive surgical techniques, and advanced radiation therapy equipment.

**Patient Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and palliative care.

**Survival Rates and Outcomes:** While survival rates are a crucial indicator of a hospital's success, it's essential to understand that these figures can vary depending on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors. Obtain specific survival rate data from the hospitals you are considering.

**ER Wait Times:** Long ER wait times can be stressful and potentially delay treatment. Check the hospital's website or third-party sources for real-time estimates.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth services can be invaluable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing side effects. Confirm the availability of telehealth services for oncology patients with the hospital.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network. Understand your out-of-pocket costs for treatment.

**Accessibility and Convenience:** Consider the hospital's location, parking, and ease of access. The hospital should be convenient for you and your family.

**Specific Hospital Details (Beyond General Metrics)**

Beyond the general considerations, specific hospital details are essential for informed decision-making.

**Georgetown University Hospital:** Inquire about the specific types of clinical trials available at the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. Ask about the hospital's experience with minimally invasive surgical techniques for lung cancer.

**MedStar Washington Hospital Center:** Determine the hospital's specific expertise in immunotherapy and targeted therapy for lung cancer. Ask about the hospital's patient navigation program and the support services offered.

**Sibley Memorial Hospital:** Inquire about the hospital's affiliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine and how this benefits lung cancer patients. Ask about the hospital's experience with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for lung cancer.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital:** Ask about the specific resources available at the Inova Schar Cancer Institute. Inquire about the hospital's experience with robotic-assisted surgery for lung cancer.

**Telehealth Specifics:**

Telehealth is increasingly important. When inquiring about telehealth services, ask these questions:

* **What types of telehealth services are offered for lung cancer patients?** (e.g., virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, remote monitoring)
* **Are telehealth services covered by insurance?**
* **What technology is used for telehealth appointments?** (e.g., video conferencing platforms)
* **How do patients access telehealth services?**
* **Are telehealth appointments available for new patients?**

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near the 20012 ZIP code. Remember to gather detailed information from each hospital, including survival rates, treatment volumes, and patient support services. Consider the factors discussed in this review, and consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to make the best decision for your individual needs. Always verify information on the Medicare.gov website for the most up-to-date CMS star ratings.