28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Lenoir, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28668): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to high-quality, specialized care is paramount. This review provides a fact-based overview of hospitals near Lenoir, North Carolina (ZIP code 28668), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients: expertise, technology, accessibility, and patient outcomes. This is not a substitute for medical advice; always consult with your physician.

**Regional Overview and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of Lenoir offers a limited selection of hospitals. Therefore, this review will focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, including those in Hickory, Asheville, and Winston-Salem. These regional hubs provide a broader range of specialized services.

**Catawba Valley Medical Center (Hickory, NC)**

Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC) in Hickory, approximately a 30-minute drive from Lenoir, is a significant healthcare provider. While CVMC does not have a dedicated lung cancer center with a specific name, it offers oncology services and has a cancer program accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC). This accreditation signifies a commitment to comprehensive cancer care, including multidisciplinary teams and access to clinical trials. CVMC’s CMS star rating is not available at this time. ER wait times at CVMC vary; patients should check real-time updates on their website or through third-party sources like ER Wait Times. Telehealth services are offered, check the hospital website for details. Specific lung cancer treatment data, such as survival rates or specific surgical volumes, is not readily available in public reports.

**UNC Health Caldwell (Lenoir, NC)**

UNC Health Caldwell, located directly in Lenoir, is a local hospital offering essential services. They provide cancer care, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, for more complex cases or specialized treatments, patients may be referred to larger UNC Health facilities. UNC Health Caldwell does not have a dedicated lung cancer center. The CMS star rating is not available. ER wait times vary, so check the hospital website or third-party sources for updates. Telehealth services are available. Specific lung cancer data is not publicly available.

**Mission Hospital (Asheville, NC)**

Mission Hospital in Asheville, roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Lenoir, is a major regional referral center. Mission Hospital is part of HCA Healthcare. Mission Hospital has a comprehensive cancer program and a lung cancer screening program. The hospital has a dedicated oncology center and offers a range of advanced treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. Mission Hospital’s CMS star rating is not available. ER wait times fluctuate; check the hospital website or third-party sources for real-time information. Telehealth services are offered. Specific lung cancer outcomes data, such as survival rates and surgical volumes, may be available through the hospital or public reporting agencies like the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

**Wake Forest Baptist Health (Winston-Salem, NC)**

Wake Forest Baptist Health, located in Winston-Salem (approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Lenoir), is a large academic medical center. Wake Forest Baptist Health has a dedicated Comprehensive Cancer Center, offering a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care. The center features specialized teams of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The hospital is known for its research and clinical trial opportunities. Wake Forest Baptist Health's CMS star rating is not available. ER wait times vary; check the hospital website or third-party sources. Telehealth services are available. Detailed lung cancer outcomes data is often available through the Comprehensive Cancer Center or public reporting sources.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem, NC)**

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center is another major healthcare provider in Winston-Salem. The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center that provides advanced lung cancer treatments. The hospital has a dedicated team of specialists. The CMS star rating is not available. ER wait times vary. Telehealth services are offered. Specific lung cancer outcomes data may be available.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Several factors are crucial when choosing a hospital for lung cancer care:

* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer treatment is most effective when managed by a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Surgical Expertise:** The experience of the thoracic surgeon is critical. Inquire about the surgeon's volume of lung cancer surgeries and their experience with minimally invasive techniques.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), can improve outcomes.
* **Medical Oncology:** Expertise in chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with cutting-edge treatment options.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Accreditations and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates a commitment to quality cancer care.

**Specific Questions to Ask Potential Providers**

When consulting with potential providers, ask these questions:

* What is the hospital's experience treating lung cancer?
* What is the thoracic surgeon's volume of lung cancer surgeries?
* What types of radiation therapy are available?
* What clinical trials are currently enrolling patients?
* What support services are offered?
* What are the hospital's outcomes for lung cancer patients (e.g., survival rates)?

**Telehealth and Accessibility**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. Many hospitals offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments and consultations. Verify which hospitals offer telehealth services and the types of services available. Consider the ease of access to the hospital, including driving distance, parking, and public transportation options.

**ER Wait Times**

ER wait times can be an indicator of overall hospital efficiency. Check real-time wait times on hospital websites or third-party sites. However, remember that wait times can vary based on the time of day and the severity of cases.

**CMS Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings are a useful tool for evaluating overall hospital quality. However, not all hospitals have star ratings. If available, use these ratings as one factor in your decision-making process.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a significant decision. While Lenoir offers local healthcare options, more specialized care may require traveling to regional centers like Hickory, Asheville, or Winston-Salem. Thorough research, including consultations with specialists, is essential to make an informed choice. Consider the factors outlined in this review, ask the right questions, and prioritize your individual needs and preferences. Remember to always consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.