32925, Patrick Afb, Florida Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 32925, Patrick Afb, Florida is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive for Residents Near 32925

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents near ZIP code 32925 (Cocoa, Florida), several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review provides a fact-based assessment of key facilities, focusing on metrics relevant to lung cancer patients, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in and around Cocoa is dominated by a few key players. These hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses, are the primary choices for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Factors like proximity, insurance coverage, and personal preferences will influence the best fit.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Comparative Analysis**

Two hospitals stand out as major providers in the area: **Health First's Holmes Regional Medical Center** and **Wuesthoff Medical Center – Rockledge (now part of Steward Health Care System)**. Both are significant players, each with its unique attributes.

**Holmes Regional Medical Center:** Holmes Regional, located in Melbourne, is a large, comprehensive facility. It holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. While not the highest rating, it indicates an overall performance that is considered average. CMS star ratings are based on various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Holmes Regional's lung cancer program benefits from its size and resources. The hospital has a dedicated oncology unit and a multidisciplinary team that includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff. ER wait times at Holmes Regional can fluctuate, but the average is often around 45-60 minutes. This data is available on the hospital’s website and through third-party sources. Telehealth services are offered, including follow-up appointments and consultations. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits for oncology patients, are available upon request.

**Wuesthoff Medical Center – Rockledge (Steward Health Care):** Wuesthoff Rockledge, now part of the Steward Health Care system, is another major option. It also has a **3-star CMS rating**. The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center, providing a range of services for lung cancer patients. Wuesthoff Rockledge's strength lies in its focus on cancer care. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic tools, including PET/CT scans and minimally invasive surgical techniques. ER wait times at Wuesthoff Rockledge tend to be similar to Holmes Regional, averaging around 45-60 minutes. Telehealth is also available at Wuesthoff Rockledge, supporting remote consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific data on telehealth usage for oncology patients can be obtained directly from the hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several specialized programs and centers are worth noting. These often focus on specific aspects of lung cancer care, such as early detection, advanced surgical techniques, or clinical trials.

**Cancer Centers:** Both Holmes Regional and Wuesthoff Rockledge have dedicated cancer centers. These centers offer a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support groups. They also provide access to clinical trials, which can be crucial for some patients.

**Surgical Expertise:** Thoracic surgeons are essential in lung cancer treatment. Both hospitals have experienced thoracic surgeons who perform various surgical procedures, including lobectomies (removal of a lobe of the lung) and pneumonectomies (removal of an entire lung). The hospitals' websites provide information about their surgical teams.

**Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is often a critical component of lung cancer treatment. Both hospitals have state-of-the-art radiation oncology departments, equipped with advanced technologies like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Early Detection Programs:** Early detection is critical for improving lung cancer outcomes. Some hospitals may offer lung cancer screening programs, often using low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers). Contacting the hospitals directly can reveal the availability of these programs.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical concern for anyone seeking medical care. While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, they can impact the overall experience. Both Holmes Regional and Wuesthoff Rockledge have ERs that serve a large population. As mentioned previously, average wait times are typically between 45 and 60 minutes, but these can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Real-time wait times are often available on hospital websites or through third-party services.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Both Holmes Regional and Wuesthoff Rockledge offer telehealth services for oncology patients. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. The availability of specific telehealth services, such as virtual tumor boards or remote monitoring, may vary. Contacting the hospitals directly will provide detailed information.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

While Holmes Regional and Wuesthoff Rockledge are the primary options, other hospitals in the broader region may offer lung cancer services. These might include smaller community hospitals or specialized clinics. The level of care and the range of services offered may vary.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and credentials of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Cancer (CoC).
* **Technology and Resources:** Assess the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy equipment.
* **Support Services:** Evaluate the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like location, convenience, and the overall patient experience.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Thorough research, including a review of the factors mentioned above, is essential. Contacting the hospitals directly to ask specific questions and scheduling consultations with physicians can help you make an informed choice. Remember to discuss your individual needs and preferences with your primary care physician or oncologist. This review provides a starting point for your research, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.