27349, Snow Camp, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27349, Snow Camp, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 27349

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, especially when considering factors like expertise, technology, and patient outcomes. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 27349 (Reidsville, North Carolina) to provide a fact-rich overview of available resources and capabilities for lung cancer care. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather a comparative analysis to aid informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The immediate vicinity of Reidsville offers a limited selection of hospitals. Residents often look to larger medical centers within a reasonable driving distance. The most prominent options include those in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Durham, North Carolina. These cities house major healthcare systems with established lung cancer programs.

**Cone Health System (Greensboro):**

Cone Health, a significant healthcare provider in the region, is a primary consideration. Its flagship hospital, **Wesley Long Hospital**, is a key player. Wesley Long Hospital, a large facility, offers a comprehensive cancer center. While CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's essential to check the most current data on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for up-to-date performance metrics. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall hospital quality, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Cone Health's cancer centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment. This means patients benefit from the expertise of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists collaborating on individualized treatment plans. Cone Health's facilities usually have advanced imaging capabilities, including PET/CT scans, essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

**ER Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially in urgent situations. While specific ER wait times vary depending on the time of day and patient volume, it's important to note that Cone Health hospitals, like Wesley Long, strive to maintain reasonable wait times. Real-time wait time information is often available on the Cone Health website or through online tools like Google. However, these times are estimates and can change.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Cone Health often has dedicated lung cancer screening programs, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers). These programs typically involve low-dose CT scans to detect lung nodules early, when treatment is often most effective. Check the Cone Health website for specific details on eligibility criteria and screening protocols.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Cone Health likely offers telehealth services for follow-up appointments, consultations, and patient education. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live a distance from the hospital or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services can be confirmed by contacting the Cone Health system directly or visiting their website.

**Novant Health (Greensboro/Winston-Salem):**

Novant Health is another major healthcare system serving the region. **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center** in Winston-Salem is a large, comprehensive hospital and a key point of care for many. Similar to Cone Health, it's essential to check the most current CMS star ratings for Forsyth Medical Center on the CMS website.

Novant Health's cancer centers typically offer a similar multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care as Cone Health. They also invest in advanced technologies and treatment modalities.

**ER Wait Times:**

Novant Health hospitals, including Forsyth Medical Center, also monitor and report ER wait times. Real-time information is often available online.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Novant Health also has lung cancer screening programs and offers access to clinical trials. They often provide support services, such as patient navigators, to help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Novant Health likely offers telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Duke Health (Durham):**

While a further drive, **Duke University Hospital** in Durham is a nationally recognized medical center with a highly regarded cancer program. Duke is a major academic medical center, which often translates to cutting-edge research, access to clinical trials, and specialized expertise in complex cases. Duke University Hospital often receives high ratings from U.S. News & World Report for its cancer care.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

Duke University Hospital's CMS star rating should be checked on the CMS website.

**ER Wait Times:**

Duke's ER wait times can vary. Real-time information is often available on the Duke Health website.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Duke's lung cancer program is comprehensive, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options. Duke’s cancer center is often at the forefront of research and clinical trials.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Duke Health has extensive telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health (Winston-Salem):**

**Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center**, also in Winston-Salem, is another major academic medical center. It offers a comprehensive cancer center.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

Check the CMS website for the most recent star ratings for Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

**ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times vary; real-time information is often available online.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Wake Forest Baptist Health has a robust lung cancer program with access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Wake Forest Baptist Health offers telehealth services for cancer patients.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific hospitals mentioned, several factors are crucial in selecting the best facility for lung cancer treatment:

* **Experience and Expertise:** Look for hospitals with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer.
* **Technology and Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced imaging, radiation therapy, and surgical techniques.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A collaborative approach involving various specialists is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Patient Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients and their families.
* **Patient Outcomes:** While difficult to assess directly, inquire about the hospital's survival rates and other outcome metrics.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital and ease of access.

**Additional Resources:**

* **The National Cancer Institute (NCI):** The NCI website (cancer.gov) provides comprehensive information about lung cancer, treatment options, and clinical trials.
* **The American Cancer Society (ACS):** The ACS website (cancer.org) offers patient education, support resources, and information about local programs.
* **The Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF):** LCRF (lungcancerresearchfoundation.org) provides information and support for lung cancer patients and their families.
* **The Commission on Cancer (CoC):** The CoC, a program of the American College of Surgeons, accredits cancer programs. Accredited programs meet specific standards for quality of care.

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Patients should consult with their physicians to determine the best course of treatment for their individual circumstances. Hospital information is subject to change. Always verify information directly with the hospitals.