29666, Ninety Six, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29666, Ninety Six, South Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Upstate: A Review for ZIP Code 29666

Finding the best lung cancer care is a critical task, and for residents of the 29666 ZIP code (Simpsonville, South Carolina), several hospitals offer specialized services within a reasonable driving distance. This review will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of these facilities, focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Greenville Memorial Hospital (Greenville, SC): A Regional Powerhouse**

Greenville Memorial Hospital, part of the Prisma Health system, is a major player in the Upstate healthcare landscape. It's a Level I Trauma Center, which indicates its capacity to handle complex medical emergencies. The hospital boasts a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible score, it reflects an overall performance that is considered average compared to other hospitals. The CMS rating considers factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Greenville Memorial has a dedicated oncology program, including a comprehensive cancer center. The hospital offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer treatment, with teams comprised of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. They utilize advanced diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging techniques like PET/CT scans, to stage the disease accurately. Greenville Memorial offers a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital also participates in clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

Emergency room wait times at Greenville Memorial can fluctuate. Data from recent months indicates average wait times, but these can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. Patients can check the hospital's website or use online tools to get real-time updates on ER wait times.

Telehealth services are available at Greenville Memorial, offering patients the convenience of virtual consultations with specialists. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing non-urgent concerns. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve access to care for patients in the surrounding areas.

**St. Francis Eastside (Greenville, SC): A Focus on Community Care**

St. Francis Eastside, also part of the Prisma Health system, is another hospital option near the 29666 ZIP code. It has a 4-star CMS rating, which is a positive indicator of the quality of care provided. This rating suggests better-than-average performance in several key areas.

St. Francis Eastside is known for its commitment to community health. While it may not have the same breadth of services as Greenville Memorial, it provides a solid foundation of care, including oncology services. The hospital offers a dedicated cancer center with a team of specialists. They provide a range of treatment options for lung cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions.

ER wait times at St. Francis Eastside are generally shorter than at Greenville Memorial. The hospital strives to provide prompt and efficient emergency care. Patients can access real-time information on wait times through the hospital's website or other online platforms.

Telehealth services are available at St. Francis Eastside, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live at a distance or have mobility limitations. The hospital is focused on expanding its telehealth offerings to enhance patient access to care.

**Spartanburg Medical Center (Spartanburg, SC): A Regional Hub**

Spartanburg Medical Center (SCM), part of the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, is another option for residents of the 29666 ZIP code. It is a large regional hospital that provides a comprehensive range of medical services. SCM has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Greenville Memorial.

SCM has a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment technologies. SCM also participates in clinical trials, giving patients access to innovative therapies.

Emergency room wait times at SCM can vary, but the hospital strives to provide efficient emergency care. Patients can check the hospital's website or use online resources to get up-to-date information on ER wait times.

Telehealth services are available at SCM, offering patients the convenience of virtual consultations and remote monitoring. This is particularly beneficial for patients who need regular follow-up care or have difficulty traveling to the hospital. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve access to care for patients in the surrounding areas.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Support Services**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, it's important to consider specialized centers and support services. For example, the Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute, part of the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, offers specialized cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. This center may be a good option for patients seeking a focused approach to cancer care.

Support services are also critical. Lung cancer patients often benefit from access to support groups, counseling, and palliative care services. These services can help patients manage the physical and emotional challenges of their illness. Patients should inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, especially for cancer patients. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their doctors remotely, which can save time and travel costs. It can also improve access to care for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. All of the hospitals mentioned in this review offer telehealth services, but the specific services and availability may vary. Patients should inquire about the telehealth options available at each hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Key Factor**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant concern for patients. Long wait times can be stressful and can delay access to critical care. The hospitals mentioned in this review all strive to provide efficient emergency care, but wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online tools to get real-time updates on ER wait times.

**Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs and preferences when making their choice. Factors to consider include the hospital's CMS star rating, the availability of specialized services, the expertise of the medical team, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities. It is also important to consider the hospital's location and the ease of access. Patients should also talk to their primary care physician and other healthcare providers to get their recommendations.