33578, Riverview, Florida Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 33578, Riverview, Florida is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Tampa Bay Area: A Review for Patients Near 33578

The diagnosis of lung cancer is devastating, and choosing the right hospital for treatment is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 33578 (Sun City Center, Florida) and provides a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making. It considers factors crucial for lung cancer care, including hospital quality ratings, specialized centers, emergency room wait times, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Tampa Bay area, including the region surrounding 33578, offers a range of healthcare options. Proximity is a key consideration, but the quality of care, expertise in lung cancer treatment, and access to advanced technologies are equally important. This review prioritizes these factors.

**Flagship Hospitals and Quality Ratings:**

**AdventHealth Tampa:** Located approximately 25 miles from 33578, AdventHealth Tampa is a major player in the region. While it doesn't have a dedicated "Lung Cancer Center" per se, it houses a comprehensive cancer institute. AdventHealth Tampa boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, including patient outcomes, safety, and efficiency. The hospital offers advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans, crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and staging. They also provide radiation oncology services. Specific lung cancer survival rates and outcomes are best accessed through their cancer center.

**Tampa General Hospital (TGH):** A cornerstone of healthcare in the Tampa Bay area, TGH is approximately 35 miles from 33578. TGH is a teaching hospital and a Level I trauma center, indicating a high level of medical expertise and resources. TGH has a 3-star CMS rating. TGH's Cancer Institute is a significant asset, offering multidisciplinary care for lung cancer patients. They feature a dedicated thoracic surgery program and access to clinical trials. TGH is also a major transplant center, which can be relevant for some lung cancer patients. TGH's lung cancer program has a strong reputation for research and innovation.

**BayCare Health System:** BayCare operates several hospitals in the region, including Morton Plant Hospital (Clearwater) and Mease Countryside Hospital (Safety Harbor), which are within a reasonable driving distance. BayCare has a network of cancer centers, and their individual hospital CMS ratings vary. Morton Plant Hospital, for example, has a 4-star CMS rating. BayCare hospitals generally offer a range of lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They often have dedicated lung cancer specialists and support services.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, specialized centers and the expertise of individual physicians are critical.

**Moffitt Cancer Center:** Located in Tampa, approximately 30 miles from 33578, Moffitt Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research, prevention, and treatment of cancer. Moffitt has a dedicated Lung Cancer Center, offering a multidisciplinary approach. They have specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology. Moffitt is at the forefront of lung cancer research and offers access to cutting-edge clinical trials. They are known for their advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including minimally invasive surgical techniques and targeted therapies. Moffitt is a premier destination for complex lung cancer cases.

**Other Considerations:**

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a factor, especially if a patient experiences complications related to their cancer or treatment. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. However, resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website provide data on average ER wait times for various hospitals. It's important to check these resources for the most current information. Shorter wait times can be beneficial in urgent situations.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. Many hospitals and cancer centers offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility issues. Check with each hospital or cancer center for their specific telehealth offerings.

**Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer patients access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment. Hospitals with strong research programs, such as Moffitt Cancer Center and Tampa General Hospital, are more likely to offer a wider range of clinical trials. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologist.

**Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Hospitals often offer support services, such as support groups, counseling, and nutritional guidance. These services can play a vital role in a patient's overall well-being. Inquire about these services when choosing a hospital.

**Specific Hospital Details:**

* **AdventHealth Tampa:** Offers comprehensive cancer care, including advanced imaging and radiation oncology. CMS 4-star rating.
* **Tampa General Hospital:** Major cancer institute with a strong thoracic surgery program and access to clinical trials. CMS 3-star rating.
* **Moffitt Cancer Center:** NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center with a dedicated Lung Cancer Center, offering cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.
* **BayCare Hospitals (Morton Plant, Mease Countryside):** Network of cancer centers offering a range of treatment options. Individual hospital CMS ratings vary.

**Navigating the System:**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Patients should consider the following steps:

1. **Consult with their primary care physician:** Get a referral to a pulmonologist or oncologist.
2. **Research hospitals and cancer centers:** Review CMS ratings, check websites, and read patient reviews.
3. **Schedule consultations:** Meet with specialists at different hospitals to discuss treatment options and ask questions.
4. **Inquire about support services:** Find out what resources are available to help patients and their families.
5. **Consider insurance coverage:** Verify which hospitals and specialists are covered by your insurance plan.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near 33578, the Tampa Bay area offers a range of options for lung cancer care. Moffitt Cancer Center stands out as a premier cancer center with a dedicated lung cancer program. AdventHealth Tampa and Tampa General Hospital are also strong contenders, offering comprehensive care and a range of specialized services. BayCare hospitals provide additional options. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, consult with their physicians, and make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences. Remember that this review provides a starting point, and further research and consultation with medical professionals are essential for making the best choice.