24347, Hiwassee, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24347, Hiwassee, Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Hospital Review for Residents Near ZIP Code 24347**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to high-quality care, including expert oncologists, advanced treatment options, and supportive services, is paramount. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 24347, focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, emergency room efficiency, and overall patient experience. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, specialty centers, telehealth availability, and other relevant data to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Proximity and Key Considerations**

The area around ZIP code 24347, which encompasses the town of Marion, Virginia, is primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. Proximity to major medical centers in larger cities like Roanoke and Johnson City, Tennessee, is a significant factor in determining access to specialized care. Residents should consider travel time, as well as the specific services offered by each facility.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Lung Cancer Programs**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Virginia, is a major regional medical center. It is a flagship hospital in the area. It boasts a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated lung cancer center. Carilion Clinic Cancer Center offers multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pulmonologists. The hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET/CT scanners, and offers a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Another significant option is Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, Virginia. It is part of the Ballad Health system. Johnston Memorial Hospital provides cancer care services, including diagnosis and treatment. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as a larger center like Carilion, it offers convenient access to care for residents in the immediate vicinity. The hospital provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially in a medical emergency. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital typically experiences moderate wait times, which can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. However, the hospital's size and resources generally allow for efficient triage and treatment. Johnston Memorial Hospital generally has shorter wait times than the larger regional centers. Patients should be aware that wait times can fluctuate and should consider the severity of their condition when deciding where to seek emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Treatment Options**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital's cancer center offers advanced treatment options, including clinical trials. This allows patients access to cutting-edge therapies. The hospital also has a robust surgical oncology program, offering minimally invasive surgical techniques. The hospital’s lung cancer program is accredited by the Commission on Cancer, a program of the American College of Surgeons.

Johnston Memorial Hospital provides chemotherapy and radiation therapy services. Patients requiring more specialized treatments or complex surgical procedures may be referred to larger facilities, such as Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital or other regional cancer centers.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in cancer care. They provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Carilion Clinic offers telehealth services for oncology patients, allowing for virtual appointments with oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare providers. This can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel to the hospital. Johnston Memorial Hospital also offers telehealth services.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of cancer care. Both Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and Johnston Memorial Hospital offer support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and counseling. These services help patients navigate the complexities of cancer treatment and provide emotional support. Carilion Clinic has a dedicated patient portal, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their care team, and manage their appointments.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for effective lung cancer treatment. Both hospitals offer a range of diagnostic services, including:

* **Imaging:** Chest X-rays, CT scans, PET/CT scans, and MRI.
* **Biopsy:** Bronchoscopy, needle biopsies, and surgical biopsies to obtain tissue samples for analysis.
* **Pathology:** State-of-the-art laboratories for analyzing tissue samples and determining the specific type and stage of lung cancer.

**Specific Treatment Modalities**

The availability of specific treatment modalities is a key factor in evaluating a hospital's lung cancer program.

* **Surgery:** Thoracic surgery is performed to remove cancerous tumors. The availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques is a plus.
* **Chemotherapy:** The administration of drugs to kill cancer cells.
* **Radiation Therapy:** The use of high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
* **Targeted Therapy:** Drugs that specifically target cancer cells.
* **Immunotherapy:** Drugs that boost the body's immune system to fight cancer.

**Data and Metrics**

While specific data on lung cancer outcomes (e.g., survival rates) for individual hospitals may not always be readily available, several metrics can provide insight into the quality of care:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer indicates adherence to high standards of care.
* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pulmonologists, is essential for comprehensive care.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials provides access to cutting-edge therapies.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable feedback on the patient experience.

**Considerations for Residents Near 24347**

Residents near ZIP code 24347 have a few options. The choice of hospital depends on individual needs and preferences.

* **Proximity:** Johnston Memorial Hospital offers convenient access for residents in the immediate area.
* **Specialized Care:** Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital provides a broader range of specialized services and advanced treatment options.
* **Travel:** Consider travel time when choosing a hospital, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Insurance:** Verify insurance coverage and network participation with each hospital.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like patient experience, support services, and the overall atmosphere of the hospital.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. Residents near ZIP code 24347 have access to several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital offers a comprehensive cancer program with advanced treatment options. Johnston Memorial Hospital provides convenient access to care. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and the factors discussed in this review to make an informed decision. Consulting with a primary care physician or oncologist is also recommended. They can provide personalized guidance and recommendations based on individual circumstances.