24271, Nickelsville, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24271, Nickelsville, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near ZIP Code 24271: A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Accessing quality care close to home is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 24271 (Saltville, Virginia) focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, incorporating data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), publicly available information, and other relevant sources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of available options, helping patients and their families make informed decisions.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in Southwest Virginia**

The healthcare landscape in this region is shaped by its rural character. Proximity to larger medical centers is a significant factor. While Saltville itself has limited direct healthcare facilities, several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer varying levels of care. This review will consider hospitals within approximately a 75-mile radius, focusing on those most likely to be accessed by residents of 24271.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN): A Flagship with Potential**

Bristol Regional Medical Center (BRMC), located in Bristol, Tennessee, is a key player. While technically outside of Virginia, its proximity and service area make it a critical option. BRMC is part of Ballad Health, a large regional health system. BRMC’s CMS star rating is a solid 3 stars, indicating average performance across various quality metrics. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance, including areas like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and timeliness of care.

BRMC boasts a dedicated cancer center, which is crucial for lung cancer treatment. This center likely offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The presence of a dedicated center often translates to a more coordinated and patient-centered experience. Specific details on their lung cancer program, such as the number of patients treated annually or the availability of clinical trials, would be valuable for a more in-depth assessment.

ER wait times at BRMC are a key consideration. Publicly available data suggests that wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check up-to-date information on wait times via hospital websites or third-party sources like Google before going to the ER.

**Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN): Another Ballad Health Option**

Holston Valley Medical Center (HVMC), also part of Ballad Health and located in Kingsport, Tennessee, is another significant hospital in the region. HVMC also has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital's proximity to BRMC and its affiliation with the same health system suggest a degree of collaboration and shared resources.

HVMC has a cancer center, which is crucial for lung cancer treatment. This center likely offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The presence of a dedicated center often translates to a more coordinated and patient-centered experience. Specific details on their lung cancer program, such as the number of patients treated annually or the availability of clinical trials, would be valuable for a more in-depth assessment.

ER wait times at HVMC are a key consideration. Patients should check up-to-date information on wait times via hospital websites or third-party sources like Google before going to the ER.

**Wellmont Medical Associates (Kingsport, TN): A Focus on Specialty Care**

Wellmont Medical Associates, also in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a physician group affiliated with Ballad Health. While not a hospital itself, it's critical to consider the specialists available within this network. Lung cancer care involves a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Access to these specialists is as important as the hospital itself.

Wellmont Medical Associates likely has pulmonologists who diagnose and manage lung conditions, including lung cancer. Thoracic surgeons perform surgical procedures. Medical oncologists administer chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. Radiation oncologists deliver radiation therapy. The availability of these specialists within the Ballad Health network is a significant advantage for patients.

**Norton Community Hospital (Norton, VA): A Local Option**

Norton Community Hospital, located in Norton, Virginia, is a more local option for residents of 24271. It is part of the Mountain States Health Alliance. The hospital's size and resources are likely different from the larger hospitals discussed previously.

Norton Community Hospital may offer some cancer services, but the scope of its lung cancer program is likely more limited. It may provide diagnostic services, such as imaging and biopsies. The hospital may also offer chemotherapy and other supportive care. However, complex surgical procedures or advanced radiation therapy might require transfer to a larger facility, such as BRMC or HVMC.

ER wait times at Norton Community Hospital are a key consideration. Patients should check up-to-date information on wait times via hospital websites or third-party sources like Google before going to the ER.

**Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon, VA): Another Virginia Choice**

Johnston Memorial Hospital, located in Abingdon, Virginia, is another option for residents of 24271. The hospital is part of Ballad Health.

Johnston Memorial Hospital may offer some cancer services, but the scope of its lung cancer program is likely more limited. It may provide diagnostic services, such as imaging and biopsies. The hospital may also offer chemotherapy and other supportive care. However, complex surgical procedures or advanced radiation therapy might require transfer to a larger facility, such as BRMC or HVMC.

ER wait times at Johnston Memorial Hospital are a key consideration. Patients should check up-to-date information on wait times via hospital websites or third-party sources like Google before going to the ER.

**Telehealth and Lung Cancer Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Ballad Health, as a large regional system, likely has a telehealth program. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer care, including consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists.

**Clinical Trials and Research: Access to Cutting-Edge Treatments**

Access to clinical trials is a critical factor in lung cancer care. Clinical trials offer patients the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in the field. Hospitals with dedicated cancer centers, such as BRMC and HVMC, are more likely to participate in clinical trials. Patients should ask their physicians about the availability of clinical trials that may be appropriate for their specific diagnosis and stage of cancer.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for lung cancer care:

* **Specialist Expertise:** The availability of experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is crucial.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Access to advanced imaging technology, such as PET scans and MRI, is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Support Services:** The hospital should provide comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, social work, and psychological support.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider the hospital's patient satisfaction scores and reviews.
* **Convenience:** Proximity to home, ease of access, and parking are important factors.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents of ZIP code 24271, the best options for lung cancer care appear to be the hospitals within the Ballad Health system, particularly Bristol Regional Medical Center and Holston Valley Medical Center. These hospitals offer a comprehensive range of services and access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Norton Community Hospital and Johnston Memorial Hospital may provide some local options, but patients may need to travel to larger facilities for more specialized care. Patients should thoroughly research their options, consult with their primary care physicians, and seek second opinions to make the best decision for their individual needs. The availability of telehealth services and access to clinical trials are also important considerations.