24175, Troutville, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24175, Troutville, Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Roanoke Valley: A Scorecard for 24175

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision, especially when navigating a complex diagnosis. For residents of the 24175 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Vinton, Virginia, and surrounding areas, several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the key players in the region, focusing on their lung cancer services, accessibility, and overall quality, to help patients make informed choices.

**Carilion Clinic: The Regional Powerhouse**

Carilion Clinic, a large, integrated healthcare system, is the dominant force in the Roanoke Valley. Its flagship hospital, **Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (CRMH)**, is a central point of care for many residents of 24175. CRMH holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, a measure of overall hospital quality based on patient experience, safety, and effectiveness. While not the highest rating, it indicates a hospital that generally meets national standards.

CRMH boasts a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated **Cancer Center**. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer, with specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and pulmonology working collaboratively. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, including state-of-the-art imaging and minimally invasive procedures.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. While specific wait times fluctuate, patients should be aware that CRMH, being a major regional hospital, often experiences higher volume. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time wait time updates, allowing patients to assess the situation before arriving. Accessibility is generally good, with multiple entry points and ample parking.

**Specialty Centers and Telehealth:**

Carilion Clinic has established specialty centers, including a dedicated **Thoracic Surgery Program**. This program focuses on surgical interventions for lung cancer, offering both traditional and minimally invasive techniques. The clinic also emphasizes **telehealth services**, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth adoption rates have increased significantly in recent years, and Carilion is actively expanding its telehealth offerings. Specific data on telehealth usage for lung cancer patients is often available upon request.

**LewisGale Medical Center: A Competitive Option**

**LewisGale Medical Center** in Salem, Virginia, is another significant player in the region, located a short drive from Vinton. LewisGale is part of the HCA Healthcare system. It holds a **3-star CMS rating**, similar to CRMH.

LewisGale offers a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated cancer center. They provide a range of lung cancer treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. The hospital has invested in advanced technology, including advanced imaging equipment.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

LewisGale typically experiences shorter ER wait times than CRMH, though these can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital is generally accessible, with ample parking and clear signage.

**Specialty Centers and Telehealth:**

LewisGale has a **Thoracic Surgery Program** and offers a variety of surgical options for lung cancer. They also provide **telehealth services**, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific data on telehealth usage for lung cancer patients is often available upon request.

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

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of 24175 may also consider smaller hospitals and outpatient clinics in the area. These facilities may offer certain services, such as diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, but they may not have the full range of specialists or the same level of infrastructure as the larger hospitals.

**Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley:** This hospital, part of the Carilion Clinic system, provides a range of services, including outpatient care and some diagnostic imaging.

**Salem VA Medical Center:** The Salem VA Medical Center provides care for veterans, including lung cancer treatment. Eligibility requirements apply.

**Outpatient Clinics:** Numerous outpatient clinics and cancer centers are located throughout the Roanoke Valley. These clinics often provide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. Patients may be referred to these clinics by their oncologists at the larger hospitals.

**The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care**

Regardless of the hospital chosen, the availability of a multidisciplinary team is crucial in lung cancer care. This team should include:

* **Pulmonologists:** Specialists in lung diseases who diagnose and manage lung conditions.
* **Medical Oncologists:** Physicians who specialize in the medical treatment of cancer, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Surgical Oncologists (Thoracic Surgeons):** Surgeons who specialize in the surgical removal of lung tumors.
* **Radiation Oncologists:** Physicians who specialize in using radiation therapy to treat cancer.
* **Pathologists:** Doctors who examine tissue samples to diagnose and stage cancer.
* **Radiologists:** Physicians who interpret medical images, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.
* **Nurses:** Oncology-trained nurses who provide care and support to patients.
* **Social Workers:** Professionals who provide emotional support, practical assistance, and resource navigation.
* **Dietitians:** Professionals who provide nutritional guidance.
* **Physical Therapists:** Professionals who help patients maintain strength and mobility.

**Accessing Information and Making a Decision**

Patients in the 24175 area have several resources to help them make informed decisions about their lung cancer care.

* **Hospital Websites:** The websites of Carilion Clinic and LewisGale Medical Center provide detailed information about their cancer programs, services, and physician directories.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews and ratings of physicians and hospitals.
* **Cancer Support Organizations:** Organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation provide information, resources, and support for lung cancer patients and their families.
* **Consultation with Physicians:** The most important step is to consult with a primary care physician or pulmonologist. They can provide referrals to specialists and help patients navigate the healthcare system.

**Key Considerations for Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Specialist Availability:** Ensure the hospital has a team of experienced lung cancer specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Treatment Options:** Confirm the hospital offers the full range of lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Advanced Technology:** Inquire about the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as minimally invasive surgery, advanced imaging, and radiation therapy techniques.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider the hospital's patient satisfaction scores and reviews.
* **Accessibility:** Evaluate the hospital's location, parking, and ease of access.
* **Telehealth Options:** Determine if the hospital offers telehealth services for consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion: A Complex Landscape**

The Roanoke Valley offers several options for lung cancer care for residents of the 24175 ZIP code. Carilion Clinic and LewisGale Medical Center are the major players, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, consult with their physicians, and research the available resources to make the best decision for their health. The landscape is constantly evolving, so staying informed and asking questions is essential throughout the treatment journey.