37345, Huntland, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37345, Huntland, Tennessee is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Dayton, TN (ZIP Code 37345): A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Accessing quality care near your home is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals within a reasonable radius of Dayton, TN (ZIP code 37345), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients: expertise, technology, accessibility, and patient experience. We'll examine flagship hospitals, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to help you make informed decisions.

**Flagship Hospitals & CMS Star Ratings: A Foundation of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system provides a publicly available snapshot of hospital quality, based on various metrics. While not a definitive measure, it offers a starting point for evaluation.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center (Knoxville, TN):** Located approximately 100 miles east of Dayton, UT Medical Center is a major regional referral center. While not directly within the immediate vicinity, its comprehensive services warrant consideration. UT Medical Center currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects performance across areas like patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. The hospital houses a dedicated cancer institute, offering multidisciplinary care, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation oncology. UT Medical Center's lung cancer program is known for its advanced diagnostic capabilities and treatment options.

**Erlanger Health System (Chattanooga, TN):** Erlanger, approximately 40 miles south of Dayton, is another prominent healthcare provider. Erlanger's main campus, Erlanger Baroness Hospital, holds a 3-star CMS rating. Erlanger offers a comprehensive cancer center, including specialized lung cancer services. They boast a robust oncology program with experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists. Erlanger's proximity makes it a more accessible option for residents of the Dayton area.

**Parkridge Health System (Chattanooga, TN):** Parkridge, also in Chattanooga, is a multi-campus system. Parkridge East Hospital, one of its main facilities, has a 3-star CMS rating. Parkridge offers a cancer center with various services, including lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**ER Wait Times: Navigating Emergencies**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but understanding typical averages is important.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger's ER wait times can vary depending on the specific location and time of day. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for current estimates. However, as a Level I Trauma Center, Erlanger is equipped to handle complex medical emergencies.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** UT Medical Center, as a larger regional facility, may experience longer wait times than smaller hospitals. Checking their website or calling for current estimates is recommended.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge's ER wait times also vary. Checking their website or calling ahead for current estimates is recommended.

**Specialty Centers & Lung Cancer Expertise**

The presence of dedicated lung cancer centers and specialists is a key indicator of quality care.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger's Cancer Institute provides a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care. They have dedicated pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, including bronchoscopy, CT scans, and PET scans. They also have experience in minimally invasive surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** UT Medical Center's cancer institute provides a similar multidisciplinary approach. They have experienced specialists in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, including advanced imaging and a range of treatment options.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge's cancer center offers lung cancer services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: Precision is Key**

Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should offer a full suite of diagnostic tools.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger's diagnostic capabilities include advanced imaging technologies like CT scans, PET scans, and MRI. They also offer bronchoscopy and other minimally invasive procedures for tissue biopsies.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** UT Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging, bronchoscopy, and biopsy techniques.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge offers a range of diagnostic services, including imaging and biopsy capabilities.

**Treatment Options: A Spectrum of Care**

Access to a wide range of treatment options is essential for personalized care.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. They also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** UT Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. They also participate in clinical trials.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge offers a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access**

Telehealth offers convenience and can improve access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural areas.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in the Dayton area.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** UT Medical Center also offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Patient Experience: Beyond the Numbers**

While CMS ratings and wait times are important, patient experience is crucial. Consider factors like communication, emotional support, and ease of navigation.

**Erlanger Health System:** Patient reviews and feedback are available online. It's important to consider these experiences when evaluating care options.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** Patient reviews and feedback are available online.

**Parkridge Health System:** Patient reviews and feedback are available online.

**Accessibility: Navigating the Logistics**

Consider the distance, ease of travel, and availability of transportation options when choosing a hospital.

**Erlanger Health System:** Located in Chattanooga, Erlanger is a relatively accessible option for residents of Dayton.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** Located in Knoxville, UT Medical Center requires a longer drive.

**Parkridge Health System:** Located in Chattanooga, Parkridge is a relatively accessible option for residents of Dayton.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Comprehensive cancer care includes support services like counseling, support groups, and nutritional guidance.

**Erlanger Health System:** Erlanger offers a range of support services for cancer patients, including counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center:** UT Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of support services, including counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.

**Parkridge Health System:** Parkridge offers support services for cancer patients, including counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides information to help you assess the options near Dayton, TN (ZIP code 37345). Erlanger Health System, with its proximity and comprehensive services, appears to be a strong contender. UT Medical Center offers comprehensive care, but requires a longer drive. Parkridge Health System also offers a range of services. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and access to care when making your final decision. Consult with your primary care physician and seek second opinions to ensure you receive the best possible care. Always verify information with the hospitals directly, as services and ratings can change.