24293, Wise, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24293, Wise, Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in Southwest Virginia: A Hospital Scorecard for ZIP Code 24293**

Finding the best lung cancer care near ZIP code 24293 (Wise, Virginia, and surrounding areas) requires a deep dive into hospital performance, resources, and patient outcomes. This review assesses key facilities, focusing on factors critical for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. The information is based on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and reputable healthcare databases.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The region surrounding Wise, Virginia, is served by a network of hospitals and healthcare providers. Access to specialized lung cancer care can vary, making it essential to evaluate each facility's capabilities. This review will consider factors such as:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** A general indicator of overall hospital quality based on patient experience, safety, and efficiency.
* **Specialty Centers:** Dedicated lung cancer centers or programs offering comprehensive care.
* **Physician Expertise:** The availability of board-certified pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Access to advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., PET/CT scans, bronchoscopy) and treatment modalities (e.g., radiation therapy, minimally invasive surgery).
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** An indicator of hospital efficiency and access to care.
* **Patient Outcomes:** Data on survival rates and complication rates, if publicly available.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Performance**

**1. Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN)**

While not directly within ZIP code 24293, Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a major regional hospital that often serves patients in Southwest Virginia. Holston Valley is now part of Ballad Health.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Ballad Health has a mix of ratings. Holston Valley's specific rating fluctuates, so check the latest CMS data.
* **Specialty Centers:** Holston Valley has a cancer center that offers comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. The specifics of the lung cancer program should be investigated.
* **Physician Expertise:** The hospital employs pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Verify the board certifications and experience of the physicians.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Holston Valley is equipped with advanced imaging and treatment technologies. Confirm the availability of specific technologies like PET/CT scanners and advanced radiation therapy.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Ballad Health has expanded its telehealth services. Check the availability of virtual consultations for lung cancer patients.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Check the latest data on the hospital's website or through healthcare databases.

**2. Norton Community Hospital (Norton, VA)**

Norton Community Hospital is located closer to ZIP code 24293.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the latest CMS data for Norton Community Hospital.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate the hospital's cancer care program. Does it have a dedicated lung cancer program or multidisciplinary team?
* **Physician Expertise:** Assess the hospital's roster of pulmonologists, surgeons, and oncologists.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Confirm the availability of diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the availability of telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Obtain current ER wait time data.

**3. Johnston Memorial Hospital (Abingdon, VA)**

Johnston Memorial Hospital, part of Ballad Health, serves the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the latest CMS data.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate the cancer care program.
* **Physician Expertise:** Assess the hospital's physician roster.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Confirm the availability of diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the availability of telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Obtain current ER wait time data.

**4. Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN)**

Bristol Regional Medical Center, part of Ballad Health, is another regional hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the latest CMS data.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate the cancer care program.
* **Physician Expertise:** Assess the hospital's physician roster.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Confirm the availability of diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the availability of telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Obtain current ER wait time data.

**5. Mountain View Regional Hospital (Norton, VA)**

Mountain View Regional Hospital is another option for patients in the area.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the latest CMS data.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate the cancer care program.
* **Physician Expertise:** Assess the hospital's physician roster.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Confirm the availability of diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Determine the availability of telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Obtain current ER wait time data.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Beyond the general hospital assessments, lung cancer patients should consider specific factors:

* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Look for hospitals with a multidisciplinary team including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and oncology nurses. This team should meet regularly to discuss patient cases and develop personalized treatment plans.
* **Staging and Diagnosis:** The hospital should have the capability to perform accurate staging of the cancer, including PET/CT scans, bronchoscopy with endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), and biopsies.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a range of treatment options, including surgery (lobectomy, pneumonectomy), radiation therapy (including stereotactic body radiation therapy - SBRT), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, offering access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that provide comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, nutritional counseling, and palliative care.
* **Smoking Cessation Programs:** Hospitals should offer smoking cessation programs to help patients quit smoking.
* **Patient Experience:** Review patient satisfaction scores and read patient testimonials to gauge the quality of care and the patient experience.

**Telehealth and Lung Cancer Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare. Lung cancer patients can benefit from telehealth for:

* **Initial Consultations:** Virtual consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Remote monitoring of patients after treatment.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth can facilitate medication refills and adjustments.
* **Support Groups:** Online support groups can connect patients with others facing similar challenges.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant indicator of hospital efficiency and access to care. Long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, which is particularly concerning for lung cancer patients. Check the latest ER wait time data for each hospital.

**Patient Outcomes and Survival Rates**

While survival rates and complication rates are important metrics, obtaining this data for specific hospitals can be challenging. Look for publicly available data from sources like the National Cancer Database or state health departments. Keep in mind that survival rates can be influenced by many factors, including the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the specific treatment received.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. Patients should:

* **Research:** Thoroughly research the hospitals in their area, considering the factors outlined in this review.
* **Consult with Their Primary Care Physician:** Seek their recommendations and advice.
* **Get Second Opinions:** Obtain second opinions from different specialists.
* **Ask Questions:** Ask detailed questions about the hospital's lung cancer program, treatment options, and support services.
* **Consider Travel:** Be prepared to travel to a hospital that offers the best care, even if it is not the closest.

**Conclusion**

The best hospital for lung cancer care near ZIP code 24293 will depend on individual needs and preferences. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and access the best possible care for their specific situation. Remember to check for the most up-to-date information and consult with healthcare professionals to create a personalized treatment plan. The landscape of healthcare is constantly evolving, so continuous research and vigilance are essential for optimal outcomes.