24244, Duffield, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24244, Duffield, Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near ZIP Code 24244: A Detailed Hospital Review**

Finding the best hospital for lung cancer treatment requires careful consideration, especially when navigating the complexities of diagnosis, staging, and treatment options. For residents near ZIP code 24244, which encompasses areas in southwestern Virginia, several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review delves into the specifics of these facilities, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**Defining the Landscape: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The primary hospitals serving the 24244 area and its surrounding communities include:

* **Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (Christiansburg, VA):** This hospital is a key player in the Carilion Clinic network.
* **Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (Roanoke, VA):** The flagship hospital of the Carilion Clinic system, offering a wide array of specialized services.
* **LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski (Pulaski, VA):** This hospital is part of the HCA Healthcare network.
* **Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon, VA):** Part of Ballad Health, serving the southwestern Virginia region.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Indicator of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on a variety of quality metrics. These ratings offer a readily accessible snapshot of a hospital's overall performance. As of the latest available data, CMS star ratings for the hospitals in this region are subject to change. It's essential to consult the official CMS Hospital Compare website ([https://www.medicare.gov/](https://www.medicare.gov/)) for the most up-to-date information. These ratings consider factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: Accessing Urgent Care**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially when dealing with symptoms that might indicate lung cancer or its complications. Patients should be aware that ER wait times can fluctuate. For the most current information, patients should check the hospital websites or third-party websites that track ER wait times.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center:** ER wait times are typically moderate, reflecting the hospital's role as a community hospital.

**Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital:** As a larger, regional referral center, ER wait times at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital may be slightly longer than at community hospitals, but it also has the capacity to handle more complex cases.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski:** ER wait times vary but are generally within the average range for hospitals of its size.

**Johnston Memorial Hospital:** ER wait times are generally moderate, serving the local community.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise**

The presence of specialized centers and dedicated programs is a critical factor in lung cancer treatment. These centers often bring together multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals.

**Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital:** As the flagship hospital of the Carilion Clinic, Roanoke Memorial Hospital boasts a comprehensive cancer center. It offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including surgical interventions, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The hospital’s cancer center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced specialists. They have a dedicated thoracic surgery program and medical oncology services.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center:** While not as extensive as Roanoke Memorial, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center provides cancer care services, including medical oncology and access to radiation therapy. Patients may be referred to Roanoke Memorial for more specialized treatments.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski:** LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski has a cancer center with medical oncology and radiation therapy services. They have a team of oncologists and support staff to provide comprehensive cancer care.

**Johnston Memorial Hospital:** Johnston Memorial Hospital provides cancer care services, including medical oncology and access to radiation therapy. They have a team of oncologists and support staff to provide comprehensive cancer care.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely.

**Carilion Clinic:** Carilion Clinic has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments with specialists, including oncologists and pulmonologists. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski:** LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski offers telehealth services, providing patients with virtual access to specialists and healthcare providers.

**Johnston Memorial Hospital:** Johnston Memorial Hospital also offers telehealth services, enhancing access to care for patients in the region.

**The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care**

Lung cancer treatment is most effective when approached with a multidisciplinary approach. This means that a team of specialists works together to develop a personalized treatment plan. This team typically includes:

* **Pulmonologists:** Diagnose and manage lung conditions.
* **Thoracic Surgeons:** Perform surgical procedures to remove cancerous tissue.
* **Medical Oncologists:** Administer chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
* **Radiation Oncologists:** Deliver radiation therapy.
* **Pathologists:** Analyze tissue samples to determine the type and stage of cancer.
* **Radiologists:** Interpret imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, PET scans).
* **Oncology Nurses:** Provide patient care and support.
* **Social Workers:** Assist patients with practical and emotional needs.
* **Dietitians:** Provide nutritional guidance.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovative Therapies**

Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage for lung cancer patients. Clinical trials offer the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments that may not yet be widely available. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, as a major cancer center, often participates in clinical trials. Patients should discuss the availability of clinical trials with their oncologist.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Beyond medical expertise, the patient experience is crucial. Consider the following factors:

* **Patient satisfaction scores:** These scores, often available through CMS or other sources, provide insight into patient experiences.
* **Support groups:** Local support groups offer emotional support and practical advice.
* **Financial assistance:** Hospitals may offer financial assistance programs to help with the cost of care.
* **Navigation services:** Cancer centers often have patient navigators who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Patients and their families should consider the following steps:

1. **Consult with your primary care physician:** Discuss your concerns and get recommendations.
2. **Research hospitals:** Use the information in this review and other resources to research the hospitals in the area.
3. **Consider your insurance coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
4. **Schedule consultations:** Meet with specialists at the hospitals you are considering.
5. **Ask questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about treatment options, clinical trials, and support services.
6. **Trust your instincts:** Choose the hospital where you feel most comfortable and confident in the care you will receive.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 24244, several hospitals offer lung cancer care. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, with its comprehensive cancer center, is a leading option. Other hospitals in the region, such as Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski, and Johnston Memorial Hospital, provide valuable services and access to care. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for their needs. Remember to always consult with your healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.