42127, Cave City, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42127, Cave City, Kentucky is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Glasgow, KY (ZIP Code 42127): A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task, requiring access to top-tier medical care. For residents of Glasgow, Kentucky (ZIP code 42127), the search for optimal treatment often extends beyond the immediate vicinity. This review analyzes the landscape of lung cancer care, focusing on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The aim is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**The Local Landscape: T.J. Samson Community Hospital**

T.J. Samson Community Hospital in Glasgow, KY, is the closest hospital to ZIP code 42127. As a community hospital, it provides essential healthcare services, including oncology. While it doesn't have a dedicated lung cancer center, it offers cancer care through its oncology department. Information regarding specific lung cancer specialists, treatment protocols, and survival rates is best obtained by contacting the hospital directly. T.J. Samson's CMS star rating is unavailable. ER wait times can fluctuate; checking the hospital's website or calling ahead is recommended. Telehealth services are increasingly common; inquire about availability for oncology consultations.

**Venturing Outward: Expanding the Search Radius**

For more specialized lung cancer care, patients in the Glasgow area often look towards larger regional hospitals. The primary focus shifts to facilities offering advanced treatment options, experienced specialists, and robust support services. This necessitates a consideration of driving distances and the availability of transportation assistance if needed.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deeper Dive**

**1. Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville, TN)**

Approximately a two-hour drive from Glasgow, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) in Nashville, Tennessee, emerges as a prominent contender. VUMC is a large academic medical center with a dedicated lung cancer program. It boasts a comprehensive cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. VUMC's CMS star rating is unavailable.

VUMC's lung cancer program provides advanced diagnostic capabilities, including state-of-the-art imaging and minimally invasive biopsy techniques. Treatment options encompass surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Clinical trials are often available, offering access to cutting-edge research and novel treatments.

ER wait times at VUMC can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of the situation. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead for current wait times is advisable. VUMC has a robust telehealth program, including oncology consultations. Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**2. University of Louisville Health - Brown Cancer Center (Louisville, KY)**

Approximately a two-hour drive from Glasgow, the University of Louisville Health - Brown Cancer Center is another major player in the region. The Brown Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, a prestigious designation reflecting its commitment to research, advanced treatment, and comprehensive cancer care. The Brown Cancer Center's CMS star rating is unavailable.

The Brown Cancer Center's lung cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach, similar to VUMC, with a team of specialists dedicated to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. They provide advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The center emphasizes patient-centered care, with support services like counseling, nutrition, and financial assistance.

ER wait times at the University of Louisville Hospital can vary. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead is recommended. The Brown Cancer Center offers telehealth services, including oncology consultations.

**3. UK HealthCare - Markey Cancer Center (Lexington, KY)**

Approximately a two-hour drive from Glasgow, the UK HealthCare - Markey Cancer Center in Lexington, Kentucky, is the state's only NCI-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a high level of research, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive cancer care. The Markey Cancer Center's CMS star rating is unavailable.

The Markey Cancer Center's lung cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology. They provide advanced diagnostic capabilities, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and access to clinical trials. The center emphasizes patient support, including counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.

ER wait times at UK HealthCare can fluctuate. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead is recommended. The Markey Cancer Center offers telehealth services, including oncology consultations.

**4. Baptist Health Lexington (Lexington, KY)**

Approximately a two-hour drive from Glasgow, Baptist Health Lexington offers a comprehensive cancer care program. While not an NCI-designated center, Baptist Health Lexington provides a range of services for lung cancer patients. The hospital's CMS star rating is unavailable.

Baptist Health Lexington's lung cancer program includes a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care services. They may also have access to clinical trials.

ER wait times at Baptist Health Lexington can vary. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead is recommended. Baptist Health Lexington offers telehealth services, including oncology consultations.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Beyond the hospital-specific details, several factors are crucial for lung cancer patients:

* **Specialist Expertise:** Seek out hospitals with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Evaluate the availability of advanced treatment modalities, including targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
* **Clinical Trials:** Inquire about clinical trial participation, which can provide access to cutting-edge research and novel therapies.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of supportive services, such as counseling, nutrition support, financial assistance, and support groups.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Explore telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the chosen hospital and specialists are in-network with your insurance plan.
* **Transportation:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the availability of transportation assistance if needed.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

For residents of Glasgow, KY (ZIP code 42127), the search for optimal lung cancer care necessitates a careful evaluation of available options. While T.J. Samson Community Hospital provides local care, the larger regional hospitals, particularly Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the University of Louisville Health - Brown Cancer Center, UK HealthCare - Markey Cancer Center, and Baptist Health Lexington, offer more specialized services and advanced treatment options.

Patients should prioritize hospitals with experienced specialists, comprehensive treatment options, and robust support services. Telehealth capabilities can enhance access to care and reduce the burden of travel. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare providers, and consideration of individual needs are essential for making informed decisions and navigating the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis. Remember to contact each hospital directly for the most up-to-date information on specific services, wait times, and specialist availability.