32226, Jacksonville, Florida Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32226, Jacksonville, Florida is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Jacksonville, FL: A Scorecard for 32226

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near Jacksonville, Florida's 32226 ZIP code, evaluating key factors like quality of care, access, and specialized services. We'll examine the flagship institutions, their performance metrics, and the options available for patients navigating this challenging diagnosis.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 32226 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Jacksonville's Southside, including areas near the St. Johns River and the Intracoastal Waterway. Residents in this area have access to a range of hospitals, from large academic medical centers to community hospitals, each offering varying levels of lung cancer care. This review aims to provide a comparative analysis to aid informed decision-making.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**Mayo Clinic Jacksonville:** As a nationally recognized leader in healthcare, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville stands out as a primary contender. This hospital consistently earns high marks for its comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer. Their flagship status is reflected in their CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating, which is a key indicator of overall quality. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville typically maintains a high rating, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and positive outcomes. Their cancer center boasts a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care staff.

Mayo Clinic's lung cancer program offers a full spectrum of services, from early detection and screening to advanced treatment options. They are particularly known for their expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery, which can lead to faster recovery times. They also participate in numerous clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge therapies. Telehealth services are also available, allowing for convenient follow-up appointments and consultations, though specific telehealth usage statistics for lung cancer patients are not publicly available. ER wait times at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville vary depending on the time of day and patient volume, but the hospital generally strives to keep wait times as short as possible.

**Baptist Medical Center South:** Another major player in the Jacksonville healthcare landscape is Baptist Medical Center South, part of the Baptist Health system. Baptist Health is a large network, and Baptist Medical Center South serves as a key hub. They offer a comprehensive cancer program that includes lung cancer care. Their CMS star rating is a crucial factor in evaluating their performance. Baptist Health hospitals generally strive to maintain a strong rating, indicating a commitment to quality.

Baptist Medical Center South provides a range of lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. They have a dedicated team of specialists and access to advanced diagnostic imaging. Baptist Health has invested in advanced technology to improve patient outcomes. Telehealth services are also available, providing patients with convenient access to care. ER wait times can vary, so it is important to check current wait times before visiting.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

**St. Vincent's Medical Center Southside:** This hospital, part of the Ascension Health system, is another option for residents in the 32226 area. St. Vincent's offers a cancer program that includes lung cancer care. Evaluating their CMS star rating is essential to assess their performance. They offer a range of services, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**UF Health Jacksonville:** While not directly in the 32226 ZIP code, UF Health Jacksonville, located slightly further north, is a major academic medical center that serves the broader Jacksonville area. They have a strong cancer program and a dedicated lung cancer team. Their CMS star rating is an important indicator of quality. UF Health Jacksonville is known for its research and access to clinical trials.

**Key Metrics and Considerations:**

**CMS Star Ratings:** The CMS star rating is a valuable tool for assessing hospital quality. It is based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Higher star ratings generally indicate better overall performance.

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms. Hospitals strive to minimize wait times, but they can vary depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions.

**Specialty Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated cancer centers or specialized lung cancer programs. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams and access to the latest treatment options.

**Telehealth Services:** Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Check the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients at each hospital.

**Patient Outcomes:** Research patient survival rates and other outcome measures for lung cancer treatment at each hospital. These metrics can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of their care.

**Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge therapies. Hospitals that participate in clinical trials may provide more advanced treatment options.

**Specific Services and Technologies:**

**Surgical Options:** Consider the availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgery, which can lead to faster recovery times and reduced pain.

**Radiation Therapy:** Evaluate the types of radiation therapy offered, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which can precisely target tumors.

**Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy:** Inquire about the availability of the latest chemotherapy and immunotherapy drugs and treatment protocols.

**Diagnostic Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans and MRI, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.

**Supportive Care Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive supportive care services, including pain management, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.

**Specific Hospital Details:**

**Mayo Clinic Jacksonville:** Boasts a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality. Their cancer center is a regional leader, with a strong focus on research and clinical trials. ER wait times are generally well-managed. Telehealth services are available.

**Baptist Medical Center South:** Has a strong presence in the community and a comprehensive cancer program. CMS star rating is a key factor to consider. Telehealth services are available.

**St. Vincent's Medical Center Southside:** Offers lung cancer care within its broader cancer program. CMS star rating is a critical factor in assessing their performance.

**UF Health Jacksonville:** As a major academic medical center, UF Health Jacksonville offers a wide range of services and access to clinical trials. CMS star rating is a key factor to consider.

**Navigating the System:**

**Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and referrals to specialists.

**Seek Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek second opinions from other specialists to confirm your diagnosis and treatment plan.

**Research Insurance Coverage:** Verify your insurance coverage for lung cancer treatment at each hospital.

**Ask Questions:** Don't be afraid to ask questions about the hospital's lung cancer program, treatment options, and patient outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for residents of the 32226 ZIP code to evaluate their options. By considering the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and patient outcomes, individuals can make informed decisions and receive the best possible care. Remember to consult with your healthcare providers and conduct thorough research to find the hospital that best meets your individual needs.