39423, Beaumont, Mississippi Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 39423, Beaumont, Mississippi is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Hattiesburg, MS (ZIP Code 39423)

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to quality medical care is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near Hattiesburg, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39423), focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer treatment, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This is not a ranking, but rather a comparative analysis to help patients make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Hattiesburg and Beyond**

Hattiesburg, a city in south-central Mississippi, serves as a regional hub for healthcare. While the immediate area offers several options, patients may need to consider facilities further afield to access specialized lung cancer care. Proximity, however, is only one factor. Expertise, technology, and comprehensive services are equally crucial.

**Forrest General Hospital: The Local Powerhouse**

Forrest General Hospital (FGH), located in Hattiesburg, is a primary healthcare provider for the region. FGH is a large, full-service hospital and is a major employer in the area. As of late 2023, Forrest General Hospital held a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it’s important to understand the nuances of the CMS scoring system.

Forrest General Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Cancer Institute, which offers a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The Cancer Institute is equipped with advanced technology, including the latest radiation therapy equipment. Lung cancer patients can access comprehensive treatment plans here.

ER wait times at Forrest General Hospital are a critical consideration. Data from CMS and other sources suggest that wait times can fluctuate. Patients should expect to wait, and the length of the wait can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the case. It is advisable to check current wait times on hospital websites or through online tools before heading to the emergency room.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise at Forrest General**

Beyond the Cancer Institute, Forrest General Hospital has other relevant specialty centers. The hospital has a pulmonology department staffed by board-certified pulmonologists. These specialists diagnose and treat a range of lung conditions, including lung cancer. The presence of a strong pulmonology team is a significant asset for lung cancer patients.

**Telehealth at Forrest General**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Forrest General Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. This is particularly valuable for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists without the need for travel. The availability and scope of telehealth services at Forrest General should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

While Forrest General is the primary hospital in Hattiesburg, patients may consider other facilities within a reasonable driving distance. These include hospitals in nearby cities like Jackson, Mississippi, and Mobile, Alabama. These hospitals may offer specialized services or access to clinical trials not available locally.

**University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson**

Located approximately 90 miles north of Hattiesburg, UMMC is the state's only academic medical center. UMMC is a large, complex hospital with a wide range of specialties and advanced technology. UMMC has a comprehensive cancer center, the Cancer Institute, which offers specialized lung cancer care.

UMMC's CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. The hospital's rating is subject to change, but it generally performs well in national rankings. UMMC is equipped with advanced radiation therapy equipment and offers a full spectrum of cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

ER wait times at UMMC can vary. As a major trauma center, UMMC often experiences high patient volumes. Patients should check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise at UMMC**

UMMC has a dedicated thoracic surgery department, which specializes in the surgical treatment of lung cancer. The hospital also has a robust pulmonology department with board-certified specialists. UMMC is a teaching hospital, which means that residents and fellows are involved in patient care. This can provide patients with access to a wider range of expertise and perspectives.

**Telehealth at UMMC**

UMMC has a well-developed telehealth program. The hospital offers virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling. The scope of telehealth services at UMMC should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**USA Health University Hospital in Mobile, Alabama**

Approximately 120 miles east of Hattiesburg, USA Health University Hospital in Mobile, Alabama, is another option for patients seeking lung cancer care. USA Health University Hospital is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of South Alabama. The hospital has a cancer center that offers a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of quality. The hospital's rating is subject to change, but it generally performs well in national rankings. The hospital is equipped with advanced technology and offers a full spectrum of cancer treatments.

ER wait times at USA Health University Hospital can vary. As a major trauma center, USA Health University Hospital often experiences high patient volumes. Patients should check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise at USA Health University Hospital**

USA Health University Hospital has a dedicated thoracic surgery department, which specializes in the surgical treatment of lung cancer. The hospital also has a robust pulmonology department with board-certified specialists. USA Health University Hospital is a teaching hospital, which means that residents and fellows are involved in patient care. This can provide patients with access to a wider range of expertise and perspectives.

**Telehealth at USA Health University Hospital**

USA Health University Hospital has a well-developed telehealth program. The hospital offers virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling. The scope of telehealth services at USA Health University Hospital should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Beyond hospital-specific metrics, several factors are critical for lung cancer patients:

* **Stage of Cancer:** Early-stage lung cancer may be treated with surgery or radiation therapy. Advanced-stage cancer often requires chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies.
* **Treatment Options:** Access to the latest treatment options, including clinical trials, is essential.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment often involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses.
* **Patient Support:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources can significantly improve the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Understanding insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs is crucial.

**Navigating the Healthcare System**

Patients should proactively gather information. This includes:

* **Consulting with their primary care physician:** The primary care physician can provide referrals to specialists and help coordinate care.
* **Researching hospitals and specialists:** Online resources, such as hospital websites and physician directories, can provide valuable information.
* **Contacting hospitals directly:** Patients should contact hospitals to inquire about specific services, treatment options, and wait times.
* **Seeking second opinions:** Getting a second opinion from another specialist can provide additional insights and help patients make informed decisions.

**Conclusion**

The best hospital for lung cancer treatment near ZIP Code 39423 depends on individual needs and circumstances. Forrest General Hospital provides local access to care. UMMC and USA Health University Hospital offer specialized services and advanced technology. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review and conduct thorough research to make the best decision for their care. The journey through lung cancer treatment is challenging, but with informed choices and access to quality care, patients can significantly improve their outcomes and quality of life.