28720, Chimney Rock, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28720, Chimney Rock, North Carolina is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Mountains: A Review for ZIP Code 28720

Finding the best lung cancer care can be a daunting task, especially when navigating the complexities of healthcare systems. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 28720 (Hendersonville, North Carolina) to provide a fact-rich overview of available resources, including key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information will help residents of the area make informed decisions about their lung cancer treatment options.

**Mission Hospital (Asheville, NC): A Regional Powerhouse**

Mission Hospital, located in Asheville, NC, is a major healthcare provider and the closest comprehensive medical center to Hendersonville. Mission is part of HCA Healthcare, a large national hospital system. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating. While this rating is a snapshot in time and reflects a complex array of factors, it’s a starting point for understanding overall quality.

Mission Hospital's ER wait times are a crucial consideration. Recent data indicates an average wait time, though these numbers fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. It is important to note that ER wait times are a dynamic metric, and can change considerably.

Mission Hospital houses the Mission Cancer Center, which offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services. They have a dedicated lung cancer program, providing access to diagnostic tools like advanced imaging (CT scans, PET scans), bronchoscopy, and biopsy procedures. Mission Hospital is a major referral center for the region, and it often handles complex cases.

Mission Hospital has invested in telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Telehealth capabilities can also facilitate communication with specialists and provide convenient access to care. Telehealth offerings are constantly evolving, so it is recommended to check with the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information on available services.

**Park Ridge Health (Hendersonville, NC): A Local Option**

Park Ridge Health, located directly in Hendersonville, offers a more local option for residents of ZIP code 28720. Park Ridge is part of AdventHealth, a faith-based health system. Park Ridge Health has a 3-star CMS rating.

Park Ridge Health offers a range of services, including cancer care. While it may not have the same breadth of specialists as Mission Hospital, it provides essential services for lung cancer patients. They have a cancer center that offers chemotherapy and radiation therapy. They also have a team of medical oncologists who can provide diagnosis and treatment plans.

ER wait times at Park Ridge Health are generally shorter than at Mission Hospital. This can be a significant advantage for patients needing immediate care. However, the availability of specialized services may be more limited compared to the larger regional hospital.

Park Ridge Health is also expanding its telehealth offerings. Telehealth services at Park Ridge Health can provide patients with access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Clinics**

Beyond the major hospitals, the area surrounding ZIP code 28720 has smaller hospitals and clinics that may play a role in lung cancer care. These facilities may offer primary care services, diagnostic testing, or supportive care.

**Transylvania Regional Hospital (Brevard, NC):** Located in nearby Brevard, this hospital may offer some diagnostic services and can be a convenient option for residents in the southern part of the region.

**Asheville Hematology & Oncology Associates (Asheville, NC):** This is a private practice that offers medical oncology services and can be a valuable resource for lung cancer patients.

**The Importance of Specialty Centers**

Specialty centers are crucial for lung cancer treatment. These centers often have a dedicated team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and nurses. They also have access to the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options.

**Key Specialties to Consider:**

* **Pulmonology:** Specialists in lung diseases who diagnose and manage lung conditions.
* **Thoracic Surgery:** Surgeons who specialize in the surgical treatment of lung cancer.
* **Medical Oncology:** Physicians who use chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy to treat cancer.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Physicians who use radiation therapy to treat cancer.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a critical factor in healthcare, especially for patients with potential emergencies. Longer wait times can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting outcomes. It is important to note that ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

CMS star ratings are a general indicator of hospital quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. However, it is important to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle and should not be the sole basis for making healthcare decisions.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide patients with access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live far from major medical centers.

**Making Informed Decisions: What to Consider**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care involves considering several factors:

* **Specialty Services:** Does the hospital have a dedicated lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team?
* **ER Wait Times:** How long are the average ER wait times?
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services for remote consultations and follow-up appointments?
* **CMS Star Ratings:** What is the hospital's CMS star rating?
* **Patient Experience:** What are other patients' experiences with the hospital?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?
* **Location and Accessibility:** How convenient is the hospital's location for you?

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 28720 offers a range of options for lung cancer care. Mission Hospital in Asheville provides a comprehensive regional center, while Park Ridge Health in Hendersonville offers a local alternative. Smaller hospitals and clinics may also play a role in providing care. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents of the area can make informed decisions about their lung cancer treatment options and access the best possible care. It is recommended to consult with your primary care physician or a specialist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. Remember that this review is a snapshot in time, and healthcare information can change rapidly. Always verify information directly with the hospitals and healthcare providers.