22060, Fort Belvoir, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 22060, Fort Belvoir, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near 22060: A Deep Dive into Hospital Options

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents near the 22060 ZIP code (Annandale, Virginia), several prominent hospitals offer comprehensive cancer care. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the available options, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help patients make informed choices.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

Inova Fairfax Hospital, located at 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042, is a major player in the region. It consistently receives high marks for its cancer program. The hospital is a designated Comprehensive Cancer Center by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a distinction that signifies a commitment to multidisciplinary care and adherence to rigorous standards.

Inova Fairfax boasts a strong reputation for its lung cancer services. They offer a dedicated thoracic oncology program, staffed by experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The hospital provides a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment options, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques (like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery – VATS), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy.

In terms of CMS star ratings, Inova Fairfax Hospital generally receives a good rating. While specific star ratings can fluctuate, it typically scores well, reflecting its overall quality of care. Patients should check the latest CMS data on the Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information.

ER wait times at Inova Fairfax can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. However, the hospital strives to provide timely emergency care. Patients can often find estimated wait times on the Inova website or through third-party websites that track ER wait times.

**Specialty Centers at Inova Fairfax:**

Inova Fairfax has several specialty centers relevant to lung cancer patients. The Inova Schar Cancer Institute is a central hub for cancer care, offering comprehensive services under one roof. The hospital also has dedicated thoracic surgery and pulmonary medicine departments, ensuring specialized expertise in lung cancer treatment.

**Telehealth at Inova Fairfax:**

Inova Health System has invested significantly in telehealth services. Patients can access virtual consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring programs. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth options can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel.

**MedStar Washington Hospital Center: A District of Columbia Option**

Located at 110 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20010, MedStar Washington Hospital Center is another option within reasonable driving distance for residents of 22060. While technically in Washington, D.C., it’s easily accessible from Annandale.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center is a large, tertiary care hospital with a well-regarded cancer program. It’s also a CoC-accredited cancer center. Their lung cancer program offers a range of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical interventions, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

The hospital has a dedicated thoracic oncology team, including experienced surgeons and medical oncologists. They also offer advanced treatment options, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which delivers high doses of radiation to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

CMS star ratings for MedStar Washington Hospital Center should be reviewed on the Hospital Compare website. Ratings can fluctuate, so it's important to consult the latest data.

ER wait times at MedStar Washington Hospital Center can vary. Patients should check online resources or the hospital’s website for estimated wait times.

**Specialty Centers at MedStar Washington Hospital Center:**

The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center that provides integrated care. They also have specialized pulmonary and thoracic surgery departments.

**Telehealth at MedStar Washington Hospital Center:**

MedStar Health System has expanded its telehealth capabilities. Patients can access virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services. This can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital: A Renowned Institution (and a Longer Drive)**

While located further away, at 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, Johns Hopkins Hospital is a highly respected institution with a world-renowned cancer center. It’s a significant drive from Annandale, but its reputation for excellence attracts patients from across the country and internationally.

Johns Hopkins offers cutting-edge lung cancer treatments and participates in numerous clinical trials. They have a dedicated lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The hospital is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, a prestigious designation that reflects its commitment to research, education, and patient care.

Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently receives high marks for its quality of care. Its CMS star ratings are generally excellent, but patients should always consult the latest data on the Hospital Compare website.

ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can vary. Patients should check online resources or the hospital’s website for estimated wait times.

**Specialty Centers at Johns Hopkins Hospital:**

The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is a major hub for cancer care. The hospital also has specialized thoracic surgery and pulmonary medicine departments.

**Telehealth at Johns Hopkins Hospital:**

Johns Hopkins Medicine has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Centers**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, patients near 22060 may also consider smaller hospitals and outpatient cancer centers. These facilities can offer convenient access to care, especially for routine treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and credentials of the physicians involved in your care. Look for board-certified specialists with extensive experience in lung cancer treatment.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials.
* **Technology:** Evaluate the hospital's access to advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy equipment.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and support groups.
* **Convenience:** Factor in the location of the hospital, ease of access, and availability of parking.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by the CoC or designated as NCI-comprehensive cancer centers.

**ER Wait Times: A Note of Caution**

ER wait times are an important factor, but they should not be the sole determinant of your choice. While shorter wait times are desirable, they should be weighed against the overall quality of care and the expertise of the medical team. Patients with complex lung cancer diagnoses often benefit from the specialized care available at larger hospitals, even if it means a longer wait in the ER.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and allow patients to receive follow-up appointments and consultations from the comfort of their homes. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth capabilities and whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. Residents near the 22060 ZIP code have several excellent options, including Inova Fairfax Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, and Johns Hopkins Hospital. Each hospital offers unique strengths and resources. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions that align with their individual needs and preferences, ultimately improving their chances of successful treatment and a better quality of life. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to discuss your specific situation and determine the best course of action. Always verify the latest CMS star ratings and hospital data on the official Hospital Compare website.