28673, Sherrills Ford, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28673, Sherrills Ford, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Foothills: A Scorecard for Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28673

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment can feel overwhelming. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 28673 (Statesville, NC) to provide a factual assessment of their capabilities, highlighting key metrics and resources crucial for informed decision-making. We'll examine flagship hospitals, focusing on their lung cancer programs, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Statesville, North Carolina, sits in a region with a mix of healthcare providers, ranging from large, regional medical centers to smaller community hospitals. Proximity is a significant factor, but the quality of care, particularly for complex conditions like lung cancer, demands a deeper dive. This review prioritizes data and publicly available information to provide a clear picture.

**Focus on Key Hospitals:**

The primary hospitals serving the 28673 area include facilities within the Atrium Health and Novant Health systems. These systems often provide comprehensive cancer care, including specialized lung cancer programs.

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

While not directly in Statesville, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center is a major regional referral center, approximately an hour's drive from 28673. This flagship hospital is a significant player in cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Wake Forest Baptist Hospital currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating considers various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.
* **Lung Cancer Program:** Wake Forest Baptist has a dedicated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology. They offer advanced diagnostic tools like PET/CT scans and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average ER wait time at Wake Forest Baptist can fluctuate. It's advisable to check their website or use online tools like Google to obtain the most current estimates. Keep in mind that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases.
* **Specialty Centers:** Beyond lung cancer, Wake Forest Baptist boasts numerous specialty centers, including cardiovascular, neuroscience, and transplant programs. This breadth of expertise can be beneficial for patients with co-existing conditions.
* **Telehealth:** Wake Forest Baptist has a robust telehealth program. They offer virtual visits for follow-up appointments, medication management, and some consultations. This can be a valuable option for patients in rural areas to reduce travel time.
* **Research & Clinical Trials:** As a major academic medical center, Wake Forest Baptist is actively involved in lung cancer research and clinical trials. This means patients may have access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.

**Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center (Winston-Salem, NC):**

Another major option, also located in Winston-Salem, is Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center. This hospital is another major regional referral center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Program:** Forsyth Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer program with a dedicated lung cancer team. They offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Forsyth Medical Center, like other hospitals, can vary. Checking their website or using online tools is recommended for current estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** Forsyth Medical Center has a wide array of specialty centers, including heart and vascular, women's health, and neurosciences.
* **Telehealth:** Novant Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual visits for various specialties, including oncology. This can improve access to care, particularly for patients in the surrounding communities.
* **Community Outreach:** Novant Health often engages in community outreach programs, including lung cancer screening initiatives and educational events.

**Hospitals Closer to Statesville (28673):**

While the Winston-Salem hospitals offer comprehensive care, it's important to consider hospitals closer to Statesville for convenience and potentially faster access to initial care.

**Iredell Memorial Hospital (Statesville, NC):**

Iredell Memorial Hospital is the closest major hospital to ZIP code 28673.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Iredell Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Program:** Iredell Memorial has a cancer center, which offers lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. While they may not have the same breadth of specialists as the larger regional centers, they provide essential services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Iredell Memorial's ER wait times are generally shorter than those of the larger hospitals, but checking their website or online tools is still recommended.
* **Specialty Centers:** Iredell Memorial has various specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.
* **Telehealth:** Iredell Memorial has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Oncologist Availability:** The availability of experienced oncologists is critical. Research the qualifications and experience of the oncologists at each hospital. Check their credentials and board certifications.
* **Radiation Oncology:** The presence of a modern radiation oncology department is essential. Look for hospitals that offer advanced radiation techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Surgical Expertise:** The surgical team's experience with lung cancer surgery, including minimally invasive techniques, is important.
* **Patient Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be emotionally and practically challenging. Look for hospitals that offer support services like patient navigators, support groups, and social work.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another oncologist, especially if you have a complex case.

**Analyzing the Data:**

The CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, but they don't tell the whole story. The lung cancer program's specific features, the experience of the medical team, and the availability of advanced treatments are crucial factors.

**ER Wait Times:** Shorter ER wait times can be a significant advantage, especially in an emergency. However, it's important to balance this with the hospital's overall quality of care.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Making Your Choice:**

The "best" hospital for lung cancer treatment depends on individual needs and preferences. Patients should consider the following:

* **Severity of the Cancer:** For advanced cases, a hospital with a comprehensive cancer center and access to clinical trials may be preferable.
* **Proximity:** The convenience of location is a factor, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider the hospital's reputation, the doctor-patient relationship, and the availability of support services.

**Recommendation:**

For comprehensive lung cancer care, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, both in Winston-Salem, offer advanced treatments and specialized expertise. However, Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville provides a convenient option for initial care and some treatment services. Patients should carefully research each hospital, considering their individual needs and preferences, and consult with their primary care physician for guidance. Remember to check the most current data on wait times and service availability directly from the hospitals.