31079, Rochelle, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31079, Rochelle, Georgia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 31079 (Perry, GA)**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care is paramount. This review examines hospitals near Perry, Georgia (ZIP Code 31079), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients: specialist availability, treatment options, patient outcomes, and accessibility. Data is current as of October 26, 2023, and sourced from publicly available information, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and independent ratings agencies.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The closest major medical centers to Perry, GA, are in Macon, GA, approximately 30 minutes away. These hospitals are the primary hubs for advanced medical care in the region.

**Navicent Health Medical Center (Macon, GA):** Navicent Health Medical Center, a flagship facility, is a major player. It's a teaching hospital, affiliated with Mercer University School of Medicine. As of the latest CMS ratings, Navicent Health Medical Center has a 3-star rating. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating isn't the highest possible, it's important to consider that CMS ratings are a snapshot and can fluctuate.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:** ER wait times are a critical factor, especially in emergencies. Navicent Health Medical Center's ER wait times are generally reported on the hospital's website and through third-party sources. However, these times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. Patients in Perry should anticipate potential wait times and consider the urgency of their situation when choosing a hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Treatment at Navicent:** Navicent Health Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center. This center provides comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Specific details about the lung cancer program, including the availability of thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer, and access to clinical trials, are crucial. Prospective patients should inquire directly with the hospital about the specific expertise and resources available within the lung cancer program. The hospital's website and patient services can offer this information.

**Telehealth and Remote Care:** Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Navicent Health Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing non-urgent concerns. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer-related care.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

While Navicent Health Medical Center is the primary regional center, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may offer some level of cancer care.

**Houston Healthcare (Warner Robins, GA):** Houston Healthcare, located in Warner Robins, is another option. It is closer to Perry than Navicent. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as Navicent, it offers a range of medical services, including cancer care. Patients should investigate Houston Healthcare's specific capabilities in lung cancer treatment, including the availability of specialists and treatment modalities. CMS ratings for Houston Healthcare are also available and should be reviewed.

**ER Wait Times at Houston Healthcare:** Similar to Navicent, ER wait times at Houston Healthcare vary. Patients should check the hospital's website or third-party sources for current estimates.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Treatment at Houston Healthcare:** Houston Healthcare has a cancer center. Patients should confirm the availability of a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Inquire about access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET/CT scans, and treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Telehealth at Houston Healthcare:** Confirm the availability of telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment involves careful consideration of several factors.

**Specialist Availability:** The presence of a multidisciplinary team is crucial. This includes pulmonologists specializing in lung cancer, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and oncology nurses.

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

**Patient Outcomes:** Inquire about the hospital's lung cancer survival rates and other outcome measures. These statistics can provide insights into the quality of care. While data is not always readily available, asking the hospital directly is important.

**Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location, travel time, and ease of access. For patients in Perry, GA, proximity to Macon or Warner Robins is a key factor.

**Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital accepts your insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for lung cancer treatment.

**Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's patient experience. Consider factors such as communication, compassion, and overall satisfaction.

**Hospital Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. Accreditation indicates that the hospital meets specific quality standards.

**Specific Treatment Modalities**

Lung cancer treatment involves a range of modalities.

**Surgery:** Thoracic surgery is often a primary treatment option for early-stage lung cancer. The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is crucial.

**Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The hospital should offer a full range of chemotherapy options.

**Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. The hospital should have advanced radiation therapy equipment and experienced radiation oncologists.

**Targeted Therapies:** Targeted therapies are drugs that target specific cancer cells. Access to targeted therapies is important for patients with specific genetic mutations.

**Immunotherapy:** Immunotherapy uses the body's immune system to fight cancer. Access to immunotherapy is a significant advantage.

**Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital should have an active clinical trials program.

**The Importance of Seeking a Second Opinion**

A second opinion is always recommended when facing a lung cancer diagnosis. It can help confirm the diagnosis, review treatment options, and provide peace of mind. Patients can seek a second opinion from a specialist at a different hospital.

**Summary and Recommendations**

For residents of Perry, GA (ZIP Code 31079), Navicent Health Medical Center in Macon is the primary regional center for comprehensive lung cancer care. Houston Healthcare in Warner Robins offers a closer alternative. Patients should research both hospitals, focusing on specialist availability, treatment options, patient outcomes, and accessibility. Consider factors like CMS ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth options. Always seek a second opinion and discuss all options with your healthcare team. The best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care. Contact the hospitals directly to confirm the availability of services, specialists, and treatment options.