24360, Max Meadows, Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24360, Max Meadows, Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24360

The fight against lung cancer requires access to high-quality medical care, encompassing early detection, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support. For residents near ZIP code 24360 (Marion, Virginia), the availability of these resources is crucial. This review examines the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Proximity and Core Hospitals**

The immediate vicinity of 24360 is primarily served by smaller community hospitals. However, for comprehensive lung cancer care, residents often need to travel to larger regional medical centers. This review will focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, considering the need for specialized expertise and advanced technology.

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

While not directly in Marion, Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (NRVMC) in Christiansburg, VA, is a significant regional hospital. It is a member of the Carilion Clinic network, which provides a degree of integrated care. Unfortunately, NRVMC's CMS star rating is not available. This can indicate a lack of comprehensive data or a rating that is below average.

NRVMC's emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for patients needing immediate care. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it is important to check the hospital's website or use online resources like the ER Wait Time website to get the most up-to-date information. This information is critical for lung cancer patients, who may experience respiratory distress requiring rapid intervention.

NRVMC likely offers some level of cancer care, including diagnostic imaging and chemotherapy. However, for complex cases or advanced treatments like radiation therapy or surgical oncology, patients might be referred to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, the flagship hospital of the Carilion Clinic system.

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

Located approximately 90 miles from Marion, Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital (CRMH) is a tertiary care center and the flagship hospital of Carilion Clinic. CRMH holds a CMS star rating, which is an important indicator of overall quality. A higher star rating (ideally four or five stars) suggests a commitment to patient safety, effective care, and positive outcomes. The specific rating should be checked on the CMS website.

CRMH boasts a comprehensive cancer center, potentially including a multidisciplinary team of specialists. This team typically includes pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, and supportive care staff. This collaborative approach is vital for developing individualized treatment plans for lung cancer patients.

The hospital's capabilities likely extend to advanced diagnostic imaging, such as PET/CT scans, which are critical for staging and monitoring lung cancer. CRMH also likely provides advanced treatment options, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy (including techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy), and surgical interventions (such as minimally invasive thoracic surgery).

Emergency room wait times at CRMH are another critical consideration. As a large, regional hospital, wait times can vary. Checking real-time wait times online is essential, especially for patients experiencing respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms.

**LewisGale Medical Center (Salem, VA)**

LewisGale Medical Center in Salem, VA, is another option, located roughly 70 miles from Marion. LewisGale is part of the HCA Healthcare network. Its CMS star rating is an important indicator of quality. The specific rating should be checked on the CMS website.

LewisGale likely has a cancer center, potentially offering a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The hospital may also have a multidisciplinary team to manage lung cancer cases.

Emergency room wait times at LewisGale are another factor to consider. Real-time wait times can be found on the hospital’s website or through online resources.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

The presence of specialized centers and programs is a key indicator of a hospital's commitment to lung cancer care. These can include:

* **Thoracic Surgery Programs:** Hospitals with experienced thoracic surgeons are crucial for patients who require surgical intervention. These surgeons specialize in the surgical treatment of lung cancer and other chest-related conditions.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is vital for treating lung cancer.
* **Medical Oncology Programs:** These programs provide chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, as well as supportive care services.
* **Pulmonary Specialists:** Experienced pulmonologists are essential for diagnosis, staging, and ongoing management of lung cancer.
* **Cancer Support Services:** Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. Hospitals should offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring of patients' conditions. This can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and allow for more frequent monitoring of patients' progress.

The availability of telehealth services varies between hospitals. Checking the hospital's website or contacting their patient services department is essential to determine the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer patients.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should have access to the following diagnostic capabilities:

* **Advanced Imaging:** Including CT scans, PET/CT scans, and MRI.
* **Bronchoscopy:** For obtaining tissue samples for biopsy.
* **Pathology Services:** For accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease.
* **Molecular Testing:** To identify specific genetic mutations that can guide treatment decisions.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially for patients experiencing respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms. Hospitals should strive to minimize wait times and provide efficient and compassionate care. Patient experience is another important consideration. Hospitals should prioritize patient satisfaction, communication, and a supportive environment.

**Access to Clinical Trials**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and improve outcomes for lung cancer patients. Hospitals with research programs and affiliations with major cancer centers are more likely to offer clinical trial opportunities.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 24360, accessing comprehensive lung cancer care requires careful consideration of the available hospitals and their capabilities. While local community hospitals provide essential services, the best options for advanced care are likely the larger regional medical centers like Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and LewisGale Medical Center. Patients should research each hospital's CMS star rating, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. They should also discuss their specific needs and preferences with their primary care physician to determine the most appropriate hospital for their care. Seeking a second opinion from a specialist is always recommended.