29684, Starr, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29684, Starr, South Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Upstate: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 29684**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right hospital, with the best resources and expertise, is crucial. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 29684 (Simpsonville, South Carolina), focusing on their lung cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to assist patients and their families in making informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Greenville Health System (Prisma Health)**

The dominant healthcare provider in the area is Prisma Health, formed by the merger of Greenville Health System and Palmetto Health. This large system offers a significant presence in the Upstate, and its facilities are central to lung cancer care.

**Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital**

Greenville Memorial Hospital (GMH) is a flagship facility within Prisma Health. It's a Level I trauma center, indicating a high capacity for handling complex medical cases. CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) data is a key indicator of hospital quality. As of the latest available data, GMH holds a three-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. It's important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change.

GMH houses a comprehensive cancer center. While specific lung cancer survival rates are not always publicly available at the hospital level, the presence of a dedicated cancer center suggests a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This typically includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services.

ER wait times are a practical concern. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it’s important to check the Prisma Health website or use online tools to assess current conditions at the emergency department. Long wait times can be stressful, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms.

Telehealth is increasingly important. Prisma Health offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with specialists. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in person. Check the Prisma Health website for details on available telehealth services.

**Prisma Health Patewood Hospital**

Patewood Hospital, another Prisma Health facility, focuses on specialized services. It may house specific cancer treatment programs. While its CMS star rating and specific lung cancer metrics are not always readily available, it's worth investigating the services offered there, particularly if you have specific needs. Check the Prisma Health website for information on Patewood's cancer services.

**Other Prisma Health Facilities**

Other Prisma Health facilities in the area, such as Hillcrest Hospital, may offer supportive care services or diagnostic capabilities relevant to lung cancer. However, the primary focus for comprehensive lung cancer treatment will likely be at GMH and Patewood.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

While Prisma Health dominates the healthcare landscape, other hospitals near 29684 might offer related services.

**Spartanburg Medical Center**

Spartanburg Medical Center (SMC), located in Spartanburg, is another significant healthcare provider in the Upstate. It is approximately a 30-minute drive from Simpsonville. SMC has its own cancer center, and like GMH, it likely offers a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care. Checking their website for CMS ratings and specific lung cancer treatment data is recommended. ER wait times should also be considered when choosing a hospital.

**Bon Secours St. Francis Health System**

Bon Secours St. Francis Health System, with its downtown Greenville campus, is another option. This hospital also has a cancer center, and it is worth investigating their lung cancer treatment capabilities. Check their website for CMS ratings and other relevant data.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the main hospitals, look for specialized programs. Cancer centers often have multidisciplinary teams that include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists. These teams work together to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Thoracic Surgery**

The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is crucial. These surgeons perform procedures like lobectomies (removal of a lobe of the lung) and pneumonectomies (removal of an entire lung). Investigate the number of procedures performed annually by a surgeon and the hospital. High-volume surgeons often have better outcomes.

**Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer. Look for hospitals with advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). These technologies can deliver precise radiation doses to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

**Medical Oncology**

Medical oncologists specialize in chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They work with patients to develop treatment plans based on the type and stage of lung cancer.

**Pulmonology**

Pulmonologists are respiratory specialists who play a key role in diagnosing and managing lung cancer. They perform procedures like bronchoscopies to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis.

**Clinical Trials**

Participation in clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.

**Telehealth in Lung Cancer Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. Prisma Health and other hospitals in the area offer telehealth services. Check their websites for details on available services, including virtual consultations with oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare providers.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times are a practical concern. While specific wait times fluctuate, it’s important to check the hospital’s website or use online tools to assess current conditions. Long wait times can be stressful, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms.

**Patient Experience and Support**

Patient experience is a critical factor. Look for hospitals that offer patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of lung cancer. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan. Understand the costs of treatment and any out-of-pocket expenses. Hospitals often have financial counselors who can help patients navigate insurance and financial assistance programs.

**Making Your Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Hospital Quality:** CMS star ratings, accreditation, and other quality indicators.
* **Expertise:** The experience of the medical team, including surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists.
* **Technology:** The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Support Services:** The availability of patient navigators, support groups, and other resources.
* **Convenience:** Location, ER wait times, and telehealth options.
* **Insurance:** Whether the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Conclusion**

The Upstate of South Carolina, near ZIP code 29684, offers several options for lung cancer care. Prisma Health's Greenville Memorial Hospital is a major player, with other facilities like Patewood and Spartanburg Medical Center also offering care. Thoroughly research each hospital, considering the factors outlined above, to make an informed decision that best meets your individual needs. Contact the hospitals directly to gather specific information about their lung cancer programs, including survival rates, patient outcomes, and access to clinical trials.