24281, Rose Hill, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24281, Rose Hill, Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near ZIP Code 24281: A Critical Review

Finding the best lung cancer care near ZIP code 24281, which encompasses the town of Wise, Virginia, requires a nuanced understanding of available resources. This review will delve into the key hospitals, assessing their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a clear picture for patients and their families navigating this challenging diagnosis.

**Proximity and Initial Considerations:**

The immediate area surrounding Wise, Virginia, is largely rural, meaning access to specialized medical care often involves travel. The closest hospitals offering a range of services include those in Norton, Virginia, and further afield in Johnson City, Tennessee, and Roanoke, Virginia. The quality of lung cancer care varies significantly between these locations. The primary consideration for patients is often the initial diagnosis and staging, which can often be done locally. However, advanced treatments and specialized expertise may necessitate travel.

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

Norton Community Hospital, located in Norton, VA, serves as a crucial access point for residents of ZIP code 24281. While it may not possess the specialized lung cancer centers of larger hospitals, it provides essential services. The hospital’s CMS star rating is a crucial indicator of quality. This rating, assigned by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), reflects a hospital's overall performance across various quality measures. Patients should consult the latest CMS data to determine the current rating, as it can fluctuate.

Norton Community Hospital's Emergency Room (ER) wait times are another critical factor. These times can vary depending on the day and time, but are publicly available. Patients and their families should check the hospital's website or use online resources to obtain the most up-to-date ER wait time information. This is particularly important for patients experiencing respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms.

Norton Community Hospital likely offers initial diagnostic services, including imaging such as X-rays and CT scans. The availability of a pulmonologist, a specialist in lung diseases, is essential. Patients should inquire about the pulmonologist's experience and credentials, as well as the hospital's capacity for performing biopsies and other diagnostic procedures. The hospital’s ability to coordinate care with specialists at larger facilities is also a key factor.

**Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN): A Regional Player**

Approximately an hour's drive from Wise, Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a significant regional hospital. It is part of Ballad Health, a large health system operating in the region. Holston Valley's CMS star rating should be checked, as it provides an overview of the hospital's quality of care.

Holston Valley Medical Center likely has a more robust oncology program than Norton Community Hospital. This includes a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Patients should investigate the specific lung cancer services offered, including the availability of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The hospital’s affiliation with a cancer research network could offer patients access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments.

ER wait times at Holston Valley Medical Center should be considered. The hospital's website or online resources will provide the most current information.

**Johnson City Medical Center (Johnson City, TN): Advanced Care Options**

Johnson City Medical Center, also part of Ballad Health, is another option within a reasonable driving distance. Johnson City Medical Center generally offers a higher level of care than Holston Valley. Checking the CMS star rating is essential.

Johnson City Medical Center likely has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated lung cancer center. Patients should investigate the specific services offered, including the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans. The hospital’s team of specialists should be assessed, including the experience and credentials of the medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The hospital's surgical capabilities, including minimally invasive techniques, are important considerations.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at Johnson City Medical Center. Telehealth can provide access to specialists for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services, reducing the need for travel.

**Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (Roanoke, VA): A Flagship Institution**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, located in Roanoke, Virginia, is a major medical center and the most distant option. This hospital is a flagship institution in the region. Its CMS star rating is an important indicator of its overall quality.

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital likely has a comprehensive cancer center with a dedicated lung cancer program. The hospital's team of specialists should be assessed, including the experience and credentials of the medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The hospital's surgical capabilities, including minimally invasive techniques, are important considerations. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans, is crucial.

The hospital's ER wait times should be checked.

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital is likely to offer advanced treatment options, including clinical trials and innovative therapies. The hospital's affiliation with a cancer research network is a significant advantage. Patients should inquire about the availability of these options.

Telehealth services are likely available.

**Specialty Centers and Considerations:**

Beyond the general hospitals, patients should consider specialty centers that may offer advanced lung cancer care. These centers often focus on specific aspects of lung cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy or surgical oncology. The availability of these centers in the region should be investigated.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for patients experiencing respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms. Patients should check the ER wait times at each hospital they are considering.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services can play an important role in lung cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support services. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at each hospital.

**Patient Advocacy and Support:**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Patients should seek support from patient advocacy groups, such as the American Lung Association and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. These organizations offer resources, information, and support services.

**Conclusion:**

Finding the best lung cancer care near ZIP code 24281 requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Patients should research the hospitals in the area, assessing their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and the experience and credentials of their medical teams. While Norton Community Hospital provides local access, Holston Valley Medical Center and Johnson City Medical Center offer more advanced options. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital provides the most comprehensive care, but requires the most travel. By carefully evaluating these factors, patients and their families can make informed decisions and access the best possible care for this complex disease.