37849, Powell, Tennessee Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 37849, Powell, Tennessee is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Oak Ridge, TN (ZIP Code 37849): A Scorecard

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. Proximity to Oak Ridge, TN (ZIP code 37849) offers several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review analyzes key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality metrics. These ratings provide a general indicator of overall hospital performance.

**University of Tennessee Medical Center (Knoxville):** Located approximately 25 miles east of Oak Ridge, UT Medical Center is a major regional referral center. As of the latest available data, UT Medical Center holds a CMS star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. It's essential to note that CMS star ratings are snapshots in time and can change.

**East Tennessee Children's Hospital (Knoxville):** While primarily focused on pediatric care, East Tennessee Children's Hospital is a valuable resource for the region. It does not have a CMS star rating as it is a children's hospital.

**Other Considerations:**

Other hospitals in the broader Knoxville area may also be relevant. These hospitals may not be the primary choice for lung cancer care, but their proximity and services could be useful for specific needs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in urgent situations. Data on ER wait times is often publicly available, though it can fluctuate.

**UT Medical Center:** As a Level I trauma center, UT Medical Center typically experiences higher ER volumes. Patients should anticipate potential wait times, although the hospital strives to provide timely care. Real-time wait time information may be available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise:**

Specialized care is crucial for lung cancer. Look for hospitals with dedicated oncology centers, multidisciplinary teams, and advanced treatment options.

**UT Medical Center:** The hospital houses a comprehensive cancer center that provides a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care. They often have a dedicated lung cancer program. The center typically offers access to clinical trials, which can provide patients with cutting-edge treatment options. Check their website for information on specific lung cancer specialists.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Hospitals should offer state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools.

**UT Medical Center:** UT Medical Center is equipped with advanced imaging technology, including CT scans, PET scans, and MRI. These tools are essential for detecting and staging lung cancer. The hospital also has a pathology department with expertise in lung cancer diagnosis.

**Treatment Options:**

The best hospitals offer a full spectrum of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

**UT Medical Center:** The hospital provides a comprehensive range of lung cancer treatments. Surgical options may include minimally invasive techniques. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are available. They are likely to offer targeted therapies and immunotherapies.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and remote monitoring.

**UT Medical Center:** The hospital likely offers telehealth services for certain appointments. Check their website for details on telehealth options, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience is a critical factor. Look for hospitals that prioritize patient comfort, communication, and support services.

**UT Medical Center:** The hospital typically offers patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of cancer treatment. Patient satisfaction surveys provide insights into the hospital's performance in this area.

**Physician Expertise and Reputation:**

The expertise of the medical team is paramount. Research the qualifications and experience of the pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists involved in lung cancer care.

**UT Medical Center:** Research the hospital’s website for information on physicians specializing in lung cancer. Look for board certifications, experience, and any published research or publications. Online physician rating sites may provide additional insights.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Understand the hospital's billing practices and accepted insurance plans.

**UT Medical Center:** Contact the hospital's billing department or check their website for information on insurance coverage and financial assistance programs. Understand your out-of-pocket costs before starting treatment.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with innovative treatment options.

**UT Medical Center:** The hospital likely participates in clinical trials for lung cancer. Check their website or speak with a physician to learn about available trials.

**Hospital Accreditation:**

Accreditation from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates a commitment to quality cancer care.

**UT Medical Center:** Verify whether the hospital is accredited by the CoC or other relevant organizations. Accreditation signifies that the hospital meets specific standards for cancer care.

**Proximity and Accessibility:**

Consider the travel distance and ease of access to the hospital.

**UT Medical Center:** UT Medical Center is located approximately 25 miles from Oak Ridge. Assess the travel time and traffic conditions, especially for frequent appointments.

**Community Reputation:**

Gather information from other sources, such as online reviews, patient testimonials, and discussions with your primary care physician.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Oak Ridge (ZIP code 37849) seeking lung cancer care, UT Medical Center appears to be a strong contender. Evaluate the factors discussed in this review to make an informed decision. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. Always verify the most up-to-date information on hospital websites and through direct communication with the hospitals.