24351, Lambsburg, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24351, Lambsburg, Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Pulaski, Virginia (ZIP Code 24351): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Finding the right care, close to home, is crucial. This review examines the hospitals near Pulaski, Virginia (ZIP code 24351), focusing on their lung cancer services, quality metrics, and accessibility. We will delve into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options to provide a clear picture for patients and their families.

**Proximity and Major Hospitals**

The immediate area surrounding Pulaski, Virginia, is served primarily by smaller community hospitals and regional medical centers. While the region isn't densely populated with major academic medical centers, several facilities offer lung cancer care. Proximity, however, plays a significant role in access to care. Patients may need to consider travel to larger cities like Roanoke or Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for more specialized treatment options.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (Christiansburg, VA)**

Located approximately 20 miles from Pulaski, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC) in Christiansburg is a primary healthcare provider for the region. NRVMC doesn't have a dedicated lung cancer center, but offers diagnostic services, including CT scans and biopsies, critical for initial diagnosis and staging. They also provide medical oncology services.

NRVMC's CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall hospital quality. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings based on various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While the exact star rating fluctuates, potential patients should check the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most current information. The rating provides a snapshot of the hospital's performance relative to other hospitals nationwide.

ER wait times are a crucial consideration. Longer wait times can indicate a strained emergency department, which could impact the speed of care. Information on NRVMC's ER wait times is often available on websites like ERWaitTimes.com or through the hospital's website. Patients should check these resources for up-to-date data.

**LewisGale Hospital Pulaski (Pulaski, VA)**

LewisGale Hospital Pulaski, located directly within the 24351 ZIP code, is another local option. Similar to NRVMC, LewisGale provides essential diagnostic services, including imaging and pathology, to aid in lung cancer detection. The hospital also offers medical oncology services.

LewisGale Hospital Pulaski's CMS star rating should be investigated on the Medicare.gov website. The rating gives a general overview of the hospital's quality of care.

ER wait times at LewisGale Hospital Pulaski are also important. Patients should check available online resources, such as ERWaitTimes.com or the hospital's website, to find the most current data.

**Expanding the Search: Roanoke and Beyond**

For more advanced treatment options, patients in the Pulaski area often look towards Roanoke, Virginia, about an hour's drive east. Roanoke is home to larger medical centers with more specialized resources.

**Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (Roanoke, VA)**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital is a flagship facility within the Carilion Clinic system. It is a Level I trauma center and offers a comprehensive cancer program. The hospital's cancer center is likely to have a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care staff.

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating is a critical metric. Patients should consult Medicare.gov for the most current rating. The hospital's rating provides a useful comparison point for other facilities.

ER wait times at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital are another factor to consider. The hospital’s website or resources like ERWaitTimes.com can provide up-to-date information.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services at Carilion Roanoke Memorial**

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital likely offers a range of specialized lung cancer services. These may include:

* **Advanced Diagnostic Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as PET/CT scans, to accurately stage the cancer.
* **Thoracic Surgery:** Experienced thoracic surgeons who perform minimally invasive and open surgical procedures for lung cancer removal.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists who provide chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation oncologists who deliver radiation therapy using advanced techniques.
* **Clinical Trials:** Opportunities to participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Supportive Care:** Services such as palliative care, pain management, and psychological support.

**Telehealth and Accessibility**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Patients should inquire about telehealth options offered by the hospitals in their area. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services, reducing the need for travel.

Carilion Clinic, with its presence in Roanoke and Christiansburg, likely has a robust telehealth program. Patients should check the Carilion Clinic website for information on available telehealth services, including how to schedule appointments and access virtual care.

**Out-of-Network Considerations**

Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand the implications of using out-of-network providers. Some insurance plans may have limitations on coverage for out-of-network care, which could result in higher out-of-pocket expenses. It's essential to confirm network participation with the insurance provider and the chosen hospital or specialist.

**Winston-Salem, North Carolina: Expanding the Horizon**

For patients seeking additional options, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is within a reasonable driving distance.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health (Winston-Salem, NC)**

Wake Forest Baptist Health, including its comprehensive cancer center, is a major medical center in Winston-Salem. It offers a wide array of lung cancer services, including:

* **Specialized Lung Cancer Center:** A dedicated center with a multidisciplinary team of experts.
* **Advanced Treatment Options:** Access to cutting-edge treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Extensive clinical trial programs.

Wake Forest Baptist Health's CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. Patients should consult the Medicare.gov website for the most current rating.

ER wait times at Wake Forest Baptist Health should be checked on the hospital's website or resources like ERWaitTimes.com.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. Patients should consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** Travel distance to the hospital.
* **Specialized Services:** Availability of a multidisciplinary team, advanced imaging, surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.
* **CMS Star Rating:** An indicator of overall hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** An indicator of emergency department efficiency.
* **Telehealth Options:** Availability of virtual care services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Network participation and out-of-pocket costs.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Gathering insights from other patients.

**Conclusion**

Patients in the Pulaski, Virginia, area have several options for lung cancer care. While the immediate area is served by community hospitals, the larger medical centers in Roanoke and Winston-Salem offer more specialized services. Patients should carefully research each facility, considering the factors discussed in this review, to make an informed decision about their care. Consulting with their primary care physician or oncologist is crucial in determining the best course of action.