47524, Decker, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47524, Decker, Indiana is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near 47524

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Access to quality care, close to home, is paramount. This review examines hospitals near the 47524 ZIP code, focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. Please note that this is a snapshot based on publicly available data and should not substitute professional medical advice.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 47524 ZIP code primarily encompasses the city of Jasper, Indiana, and surrounding areas. This region falls within a healthcare landscape that includes both regional medical centers and access to larger, more specialized facilities within a reasonable driving distance. Proximity to Indianapolis and Louisville expands treatment options. The focus here is on hospitals readily accessible to residents of 47524.

**Regional Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Memorial Hospital (Jasper, IN)**

Memorial Hospital in Jasper is the closest major medical center. It is a 200-bed facility serving the immediate community. Memorial Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. While it may not be a designated cancer center, it offers diagnostic imaging, including CT scans and potentially PET scans, crucial for lung cancer detection and staging. They also provide chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. Patients needing surgical intervention for lung cancer would likely be referred to a larger facility. ER wait times, while variable, are typically available online through sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms. Telehealth services are increasingly common. Check the hospital website for availability.

**Good Samaritan Hospital (Vincennes, IN)**

Located approximately 30 miles west of Jasper, Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes provides another regional option. This hospital also does not have a CMS star rating. They offer a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Surgical oncology services may be limited. ER wait times are available online. Telehealth services are likely available, particularly for follow-up appointments.

**Evansville Hospitals: Expanding the Options**

Driving west towards Evansville, Indiana, opens up access to larger, more specialized facilities. This expands the range of treatment options and access to specialized expertise.

**Deaconess Hospital (Evansville, IN)**

Deaconess Hospital is a large, multi-hospital system with a significant presence in the Evansville area. They have multiple campuses. Deaconess Hospital has a CMS star rating, which can be found on the CMS website. The hospital offers a comprehensive cancer center, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They are likely to have a dedicated lung cancer program with multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Deaconess Hospital is likely to have advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans, and access to clinical trials. ER wait times are typically available online. Telehealth services are likely offered for follow-up care and consultations.

**St. Vincent Evansville Hospital (Evansville, IN)**

St. Vincent Evansville Hospital, part of the Ascension healthcare system, is another major player in the Evansville healthcare market. They have a CMS star rating, which can be found on the CMS website. This hospital also has a comprehensive cancer center, including a lung cancer program. They likely offer a full range of services, including surgical, medical, and radiation oncology. They likely have advanced imaging capabilities and access to clinical trials. ER wait times are available online. Telehealth services are likely offered, which can be important for follow-up care and consultations.

**Indianapolis and Louisville: Expanding the Horizon**

While further afield, the cities of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky, offer access to nationally recognized cancer centers. These facilities may be considered for complex cases or for patients seeking specific treatment options.

**Indiana University Health (Indianapolis, IN)**

Indiana University Health (IU Health) is a major healthcare system in Indianapolis. They have multiple hospitals, including a flagship hospital with a CMS star rating. IU Health has a comprehensive cancer center, including a lung cancer program. They offer advanced treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. ER wait times are typically available online. Telehealth services are widely available.

**Norton Healthcare (Louisville, KY)**

Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky, is another regional healthcare system with a strong reputation for cancer care. They have a CMS star rating. Norton Healthcare has a comprehensive cancer center, including a lung cancer program. They offer advanced treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. ER wait times are typically available online. Telehealth services are widely available.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

**Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment is most effective when approached by a team of specialists. This includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and nurses. Look for hospitals that emphasize a collaborative approach.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to advanced imaging, such as CT scans, PET/CT scans, and bronchoscopy, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging. Ensure the hospital has the necessary equipment and expertise.

**Treatment Options:** Lung cancer treatment can involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The hospital should offer a full range of these options, or have strong referral relationships with facilities that do.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about clinical trial availability at the hospital.

**Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be emotionally and physically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:** ER wait times can be a significant factor in urgent situations. Check online resources for current wait times at each hospital. Consider the distance and ease of access to each facility.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing side effects. Inquire about telehealth options at each hospital.

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality of care. These ratings can provide a general indication of hospital performance, but they should be considered alongside other factors.

**Specifics to Inquire About**

When considering a hospital for lung cancer care, ask the following questions:

* Does the hospital have a dedicated lung cancer program?
* What is the experience of the thoracic surgeons in lung cancer surgery?
* What types of radiation therapy are available (e.g., IMRT, stereotactic body radiation therapy)?
* What types of chemotherapy and targeted therapies are available?
* Are there any clinical trials currently enrolling patients?
* What support services are available for patients and their families?
* Does the hospital have a patient navigator to help coordinate care?
* What telehealth services are offered?

**Conclusion**

Residents of the 47524 ZIP code have access to a range of hospitals for lung cancer care, from regional facilities to larger, more specialized centers in Evansville, Indianapolis, and Louisville. The best choice will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific stage and type of lung cancer. Thorough research, consultation with a primary care physician, and direct inquiries to the hospitals are essential steps in making an informed decision. The information provided here is a starting point, and should be supplemented with further investigation and professional medical advice.