29924, Hampton, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29924, Hampton, South Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in Beaufort, South Carolina: A Scorecard for 29924

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Finding the right care, close to home, is paramount. This review analyzes the landscape of lung cancer treatment options near ZIP code 29924 (Beaufort, South Carolina), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll examine key players, including flagship institutions, and offer a snapshot of what patients can expect.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Offerings**

The primary healthcare providers serving Beaufort County are Beaufort Memorial Hospital and the more distant facilities in Charleston, South Carolina. The proximity of these options influences patient choices, particularly given the need for frequent appointments and treatments associated with lung cancer care.

**Beaufort Memorial Hospital: A Community Anchor**

Beaufort Memorial Hospital (BMH) is a vital community hospital, offering a range of services. While BMH doesn't have a dedicated, standalone cancer center, it provides cancer care through its Keyserling Cancer Center. This center offers chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services. BMH is not a designated Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), but it is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. This accreditation signifies a commitment to quality cancer care.

BMH's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a crucial indicator of overall hospital quality. As of the latest available data, BMH holds a [Insert current CMS star rating here - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*] star rating. This rating considers factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Accessibility and Wait Times at Beaufort Memorial**

ER wait times are a significant concern for any patient. The average ER wait time at BMH fluctuates. Recent data suggests an average wait time of [Insert current ER wait time here - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*] minutes. This information is crucial for patients experiencing symptoms that may require immediate attention. Telehealth services at BMH are expanding, offering consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients managing lung cancer, reducing travel burdens and improving access to specialists. The hospital’s telehealth platform offers [Insert specific details about telehealth services, e.g., types of appointments offered, specialties available - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Specialty Centers and Expertise at Beaufort Memorial**

The Keyserling Cancer Center at BMH offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This means that patients benefit from the expertise of various specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and supportive care staff. The center's lung cancer program includes [Insert specific details about lung cancer program, e.g., specific types of treatment offered, clinical trials available, patient support services - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Charleston: Expanding the Horizon of Care**

Charleston, approximately an hour's drive from Beaufort, offers a broader range of specialized cancer care options. The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and Roper St. Francis Healthcare are the primary players in this area.

**MUSC Health: A Flagship Cancer Center**

MUSC Health, particularly its Hollings Cancer Center, is a major referral center for cancer patients in South Carolina. Hollings is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to cutting-edge research, comprehensive care, and a high level of expertise. MUSC's CMS star rating is [Insert current CMS star rating here - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Hollings Cancer Center: Lung Cancer Specialization**

Hollings Cancer Center boasts a dedicated lung cancer program. This program offers a full spectrum of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The center also participates in numerous clinical trials, providing patients with access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment. The center’s lung cancer specialists include [Insert specific details about the lung cancer specialists, e.g., names, specializations, affiliations - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Accessibility and Wait Times at MUSC**

Given its status as a major referral center, MUSC's ER wait times can be longer than those at community hospitals. The average ER wait time at MUSC is [Insert current ER wait time here - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*] minutes. MUSC Health has invested heavily in telehealth services. Telehealth options at MUSC include [Insert specific details about telehealth services, e.g., types of appointments offered, specialties available - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Roper St. Francis Healthcare: Another Charleston Option**

Roper St. Francis Healthcare also offers cancer care services in Charleston. While not an NCI-designated cancer center, Roper St. Francis provides comprehensive cancer treatment options, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. Their CMS star rating is [Insert current CMS star rating here - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Roper St. Francis: Lung Cancer Program**

Roper St. Francis has a lung cancer program that includes [Insert specific details about the lung cancer program, e.g., specific types of treatment offered, clinical trials available, patient support services - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Accessibility and Wait Times at Roper St. Francis**

Roper St. Francis’s ER wait times are generally comparable to other hospitals in the area. The average ER wait time is [Insert current ER wait time here - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*] minutes. Telehealth services are available at Roper St. Francis. The telehealth platform offers [Insert specific details about telehealth services, e.g., types of appointments offered, specialties available - *This requires up-to-date information and must be verified.*].

**Comparing the Options: A Patient's Perspective**

For patients residing in the 29924 ZIP code, the choice of where to receive lung cancer care involves a careful balancing act. Beaufort Memorial Hospital offers the convenience of a local hospital, providing essential services and a familiar environment. However, for patients seeking access to the most advanced treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise, MUSC's Hollings Cancer Center in Charleston is a compelling option. Roper St. Francis in Charleston provides another option for comprehensive cancer care.

**Factors to Consider in Decision-Making**

* **Stage and Type of Lung Cancer:** The specific type and stage of the cancer will significantly influence treatment needs.
* **Treatment Preferences:** Patients should discuss their treatment preferences with their doctors.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage will impact access to care and financial considerations.
* **Travel Distance:** The distance to the hospital and the frequency of appointments will influence the patient's quality of life.
* **Support System:** The availability of family and friends to provide support during treatment is crucial.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** For some patients, access to clinical trials at centers like MUSC can be beneficial.

**The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach**

Regardless of the chosen hospital, a multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal lung cancer care. This means that patients should have access to a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care staff.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in cancer care. Telehealth can help patients manage their symptoms, receive follow-up appointments, and access support services remotely. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility issues.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a snapshot of the available options near ZIP code 29924, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each facility. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals to make an informed decision that best meets their individual needs and preferences. Regular updates on hospital ratings, wait times, and service offerings are essential to stay informed about the evolving healthcare landscape. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.