47574, Rome, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 47574, Rome, Indiana is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Petersburg, Indiana (ZIP Code 47574): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to quality care, particularly specialized treatment and supportive services, is paramount. This review examines the landscape of lung cancer care options for residents near Petersburg, Indiana (ZIP code 47574), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized resources.

**Proximity and Major Healthcare Systems**

The immediate vicinity of Petersburg, Indiana, is largely served by regional healthcare providers. Residents often travel to larger cities like Evansville and Terre Haute for advanced medical care. The closest major hospitals are likely to be in these cities. The availability of specialized lung cancer care in smaller towns is limited.

**Evansville: A Hub for Advanced Care**

Evansville, approximately an hour's drive from Petersburg, is a significant healthcare hub. Two major health systems dominate the landscape: Deaconess Health System and Ascension St. Vincent. Both offer comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment.

**Deaconess Health System: A Strong Regional Presence**

Deaconess Health System operates several hospitals and clinics in the Evansville area. Deaconess Hospital, the flagship facility, is a Level II Trauma Center. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, Deaconess Hospital generally scores well in patient safety and quality metrics. The hospital offers a dedicated cancer center, providing a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services.

Deaconess has made significant investments in advanced imaging and treatment technologies, including advanced radiation therapy techniques. They also emphasize clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies. Telehealth services are available, though specific statistics on lung cancer-related telehealth utilization are difficult to obtain. Deaconess’s website indicates a focus on virtual visits, especially for follow-up appointments.

**Ascension St. Vincent: A Faith-Based Approach**

Ascension St. Vincent Evansville is another major player in the Evansville healthcare market. Like Deaconess, it offers a comprehensive cancer program, including lung cancer care. The hospital is a regional referral center and often has good CMS star ratings.

Ascension St. Vincent’s cancer center provides similar services to Deaconess, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They also have a strong emphasis on patient support services, such as counseling, support groups, and palliative care. Telehealth options are available, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Specific telehealth usage data for lung cancer patients is not readily available.

**ER Wait Times: A Key Consideration**

ER wait times can be a critical factor in healthcare access, especially during a medical crisis. Both Deaconess Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent Evansville typically report ER wait times that are in line with or slightly better than the national average. However, these times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. It is advisable to check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospitals directly, particularly if immediate medical attention is required.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Both Deaconess and Ascension St. Vincent have established specialty centers and multidisciplinary teams to address complex cancer cases. These teams typically include pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and other specialists.

Thoracic surgeons at both hospitals perform a range of surgical procedures, including minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Medical oncologists administer chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Radiation oncologists utilize advanced radiation techniques to treat lung tumors.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Both Deaconess and Ascension St. Vincent offer telehealth services, which can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. While specific data on lung cancer-related telehealth usage is not readily available, the availability of these services is a positive indicator of the commitment to patient convenience and access.

**Terre Haute: Another Option**

Terre Haute, approximately an hour and a half drive from Petersburg, offers another option for lung cancer care. Union Health is the primary healthcare provider in Terre Haute. They offer a comprehensive cancer center with medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services. While the hospital's CMS star ratings and specific metrics may vary, it provides a viable alternative for residents in the region. Telehealth services are also available.

**Accessibility Considerations**

For residents of Petersburg, Indiana, transportation to Evansville or Terre Haute is a significant factor. The drive can be time-consuming, and the cost of travel can be a barrier to care. Public transportation options are limited in the area. Patients and their families may need to rely on personal vehicles or arrange for transportation assistance through support services.

**Support Services and Resources**

Access to support services is crucial for lung cancer patients. Both Deaconess and Ascension St. Vincent offer a range of supportive care services, including:

* **Patient navigators:** These individuals help patients navigate the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources.
* **Support groups:** These groups provide a forum for patients and their families to connect with others facing similar challenges.
* **Counseling services:** Therapists and counselors offer emotional support and coping strategies.
* **Palliative care:** This focuses on managing pain and other symptoms to improve quality of life.
* **Financial assistance programs:** These programs help patients with the cost of treatment and medications.

**Clinical Trials: Opportunities for Innovation**

Both Deaconess and Ascension St. Vincent actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative therapies and treatments. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologists.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment, patients should consider several factors:

* **Hospital quality and reputation:** Review CMS star ratings, patient satisfaction scores, and other quality metrics.
* **Specialized expertise:** Ensure the hospital has experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Access to advanced technologies:** Look for hospitals with advanced imaging and treatment technologies.
* **Support services:** Consider the availability of patient navigators, support groups, counseling services, and palliative care.
* **Telehealth options:** Assess the availability of telehealth services for convenience and access.
* **Insurance coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Proximity and transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and transportation options.

**Conclusion**

Residents of Petersburg, Indiana, have several options for lung cancer care, primarily in Evansville and Terre Haute. Deaconess Health System and Ascension St. Vincent in Evansville offer comprehensive cancer programs, including specialized lung cancer treatment. While specific data on ER wait times and telehealth utilization may vary, both health systems provide quality care and supportive services. Careful consideration of the factors outlined in this review will help patients and their families make informed decisions about their lung cancer care journey. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and oncologists to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.