27282, Jamestown, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27282, Jamestown, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Piedmont Triad: A Review for ZIP Code 27282

Finding the best lung cancer care near Lexington, North Carolina (ZIP code 27282) requires navigating a complex healthcare landscape. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals in the region, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, all critical factors in a patient's journey.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Lexington residents are primarily served by hospitals within the Piedmont Triad region, including Winston-Salem, Greensboro, and Salisbury. Proximity is a key consideration, especially during diagnosis and treatment, which often involves frequent appointments. This review will assess the leading hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering their lung cancer-specific resources.

**Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center (Winston-Salem): A Flagship Institution**

Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem is a major player, often considered a flagship hospital in the area. It holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety. However, CMS ratings should be viewed as one piece of the puzzle, not the sole determinant of care.

Forsyth Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cancer center, which is crucial for lung cancer patients. They offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans. The hospital is known for its advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans, vital for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

Emergency room wait times at Forsyth Medical Center can fluctuate. While specific real-time data varies, it's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before arriving, especially during peak hours. The hospital's website typically provides this information.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem): A Teaching Hospital with Advanced Capabilities**

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, also in Winston-Salem, is a prominent teaching hospital, often associated with cutting-edge research and advanced treatment options. While its CMS star rating may also fluctuate, its status as a teaching hospital often translates to access to the latest clinical trials and innovative therapies.

Wake Forest Baptist has a dedicated cancer center with a strong reputation for lung cancer care. Their specialists are experienced in all aspects of lung cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. They also have a robust thoracic surgery program, which is critical for patients requiring surgical intervention.

The hospital's emergency room, like Forsyth Medical Center, experiences varying wait times. Checking online or calling ahead is recommended to gauge current wait times. As a major medical center, it typically handles a high volume of patients.

**Cone Health System (Greensboro): A Networked Approach**

Cone Health, a major healthcare system headquartered in Greensboro, offers several hospitals within reach of Lexington. Cone Health's network approach provides patients with a broader range of resources and access to multiple facilities.

Cone Health's flagship hospital, The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro, is a primary option. While specific CMS ratings vary, Cone Health hospitals generally demonstrate a commitment to quality care.

Cone Health's cancer services are centralized, often providing access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Their network also facilitates access to clinical trials and specialized programs.

Emergency room wait times at Cone Health hospitals, including Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, can vary. It's essential to check real-time wait times online or by phone before visiting.

**Specialty Centers: Focused Expertise**

Beyond the general hospitals, specialized centers are crucial for lung cancer patients. These centers often house experts and advanced technologies.

**The Comprehensive Cancer Center at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center:** As mentioned earlier, this center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans.

**The Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center:** This center is known for its advanced research and access to clinical trials. It is a key resource for patients seeking innovative therapies.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care.

**Novant Health:** Novant Health offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their care teams remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist:** Wake Forest Baptist also provides telehealth options, expanding access to specialists and support services.

**Cone Health:** Cone Health has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially during urgent situations. While specific times fluctuate, here's a general overview:

* **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center:** Wait times can vary; check online or by phone.
* **Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center:** Wait times can vary; check online or by phone.
* **Cone Health Hospitals:** Wait times can vary; check online or by phone.

**Choosing the Right Hospital: Key Considerations**

Choosing the best hospital for lung cancer care near ZIP code 27282 requires careful consideration of several factors:

* **Specialist Expertise:** Look for hospitals with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists specializing in lung cancer.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team that collaborates on treatment plans.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, providing access to innovative therapies.
* **Telehealth Options:** Evaluate the availability of telehealth services for convenient follow-up and consultations.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of care and patient experience.
* **Proximity:** Consider the driving distance to the hospital, especially for frequent appointments.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Options**

For residents of ZIP code 27282, the hospitals in Winston-Salem and Greensboro offer the most comprehensive lung cancer care options. Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, along with the Cone Health system in Greensboro, are all strong contenders. Patients should carefully evaluate each hospital's strengths, considering their individual needs and preferences. Thorough research, consultation with primary care physicians, and a focus on the factors outlined in this review will help patients make informed decisions about their lung cancer care journey.