25671, Dingess, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25671, Dingess, West Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near War, West Virginia: A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Accessing timely, high-quality care is paramount. This review analyzes hospitals near the ZIP code 25671 (War, West Virginia), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer patients: expertise, resources, and accessibility. We'll delve into hospital profiles, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a fact-rich assessment to aid in informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Options: The Immediate Landscape**

The immediate vicinity of War, West Virginia, presents limited options for comprehensive lung cancer treatment. Residents often need to travel for specialized care. This review will primarily focus on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering both in-state and out-of-state facilities.

**West Virginia Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Cabell Huntington Hospital (Huntington, WV):** Cabell Huntington Hospital, a major regional referral center, is a key player for residents of the 25671 ZIP code. While it doesn't have a dedicated "Lung Cancer Center" per se, it offers comprehensive cancer services through its Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center. This center provides multidisciplinary care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. Cabell Huntington Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality, with factors including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and readmission rates. ER wait times at Cabell Huntington Hospital typically fluctuate, but data suggests average wait times can be in the range of 1-2 hours. It's crucial to check current wait times using online tools or by calling the hospital directly. Telehealth capabilities are available, offering remote consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas.

**Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) (Charleston, WV):** Located in Charleston, CAMC is another significant option. It's a large health system with multiple campuses, including CAMC Cancer Center. CAMC offers a full spectrum of cancer services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support. CAMC also has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to Cabell Huntington Hospital. ER wait times at CAMC can vary depending on the specific campus and time of day, but generally, patients can expect waits of 1-3 hours. CAMC is actively expanding its telehealth programs, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**Other West Virginia Considerations:** Smaller community hospitals in the region may offer basic cancer care, such as chemotherapy administration. However, for complex cases or advanced treatments, referral to a larger center like Cabell Huntington or CAMC is often necessary.

**Out-of-State Options: Expanding the Scope**

Given the limited options in the immediate vicinity, considering hospitals in neighboring states is essential.

**University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center (Lexington, KY):** The Markey Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, a distinction awarded to institutions demonstrating exceptional cancer research, treatment, and prevention. This designation signifies a high level of expertise and access to cutting-edge therapies, including clinical trials. While the Markey Cancer Center is approximately a 3-hour drive from War, WV, the potential benefits of accessing a comprehensive cancer center are significant. The hospital has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of quality compared to some West Virginia hospitals. ER wait times can vary, but patients should anticipate waits that could range from 1-3 hours. The Markey Cancer Center has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH):** While further afield (approximately a 5-6 hour drive), the Cleveland Clinic is renowned for its cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. The Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Institute is a leading center for cancer care. The Cleveland Clinic consistently receives high ratings and recognition for its quality of care. The hospital has a 4-star CMS rating. ER wait times at the Cleveland Clinic can fluctuate, but patients should be prepared for potential waits of 1-2 hours. The Cleveland Clinic has a well-established telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialized expertise.

**University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) (Pittsburgh, PA):** The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is another option, located approximately a 3-4 hour drive from War, WV. The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is a comprehensive cancer center offering a wide range of treatment options. The hospital has a 4-star CMS rating. ER wait times can fluctuate, but patients should be prepared for potential waits of 1-2 hours. UPMC has a strong telehealth program, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialized expertise.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Beyond hospital ratings and wait times, several factors are critical for lung cancer patients:

* **Multidisciplinary Teams:** Lung cancer treatment often requires a team of specialists, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pathologists, and supportive care providers. Ensure the hospital offers a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach.
* **Specialized Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers or programs. These centers typically offer advanced diagnostic tools, access to clinical trials, and specialized expertise.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer the potential for access to innovative therapies. Inquire about clinical trial availability at each hospital.
* **Advanced Technology:** Modern lung cancer treatment often involves advanced technologies, such as minimally invasive surgery, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and targeted therapies.
* **Support Services:** Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as counseling, support groups, and palliative care.
* **Telehealth Accessibility:** Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant concern, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications. While the average wait times are provided in this review, it's essential to check current wait times before visiting an emergency room. Many hospitals provide real-time wait time information on their websites or through mobile apps.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. It can provide access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring. Inquire about the availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources.

**The Scorecard Summary**

Residents of the 25671 ZIP code face a challenging landscape for lung cancer care. While options exist within West Virginia, the need to travel for specialized care is often necessary. Cabell Huntington Hospital and CAMC in Charleston offer comprehensive cancer services. The Markey Cancer Center in Lexington, KY, and the Cleveland Clinic and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, while further away, provide access to advanced treatments and specialized expertise. Patients should carefully consider the factors outlined in this review, including hospital ratings, wait times, access to specialists, clinical trial availability, and telehealth capabilities, when making decisions about their care.