25703, Huntington, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25703, Huntington, West Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Huntington, WV Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 25703**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Choosing the right hospital, with the best specialists and resources, is critical. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near the 25703 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer care. This is not medical advice; always consult with your physician.

**The Landscape: Huntington and Beyond**

The Huntington, West Virginia area, served by the 25703 ZIP code, offers a range of healthcare options. The primary players are Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Charleston, WV, and even Columbus, OH, provides access to additional, potentially specialized, facilities.

**Cabell Huntington Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Cabell Huntington Hospital, a major regional medical center, is a central point of care for residents of the 25703 area. It’s a teaching hospital, affiliated with Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. This affiliation can bring access to cutting-edge research and potentially, clinical trials.

Cabell Huntington Hospital does not currently have a CMS star rating. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings are a widely used metric, summarizing a hospital's performance across various quality measures. The absence of a rating doesn't automatically mean poor quality, but it does mean a readily available, easily comparable score is unavailable.

Cabell Huntington Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center. This center is a significant asset, offering a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This means patients can expect to see a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and supportive care staff, working together. The Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons, a crucial indicator of quality.

Regarding lung cancer specifically, Cabell Huntington Hospital offers diagnostic services, including advanced imaging like CT scans and PET scans, essential for staging and monitoring the disease. They also provide a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques, like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), should be a key consideration for patients. Inquire about the hospital's volume of lung cancer surgeries, as higher volumes are often associated with better outcomes.

ER wait times are a critical concern. While specific real-time data fluctuates, the average ER wait time at Cabell Huntington Hospital should be investigated. Publicly available data, like those provided by the hospital or third-party sources, can provide insights. Prolonged wait times can be stressful and can delay critical care.

Telehealth is increasingly important. Cabell Huntington Hospital likely offers telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Confirm the availability of telehealth options for oncology patients, as this can improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.

**St. Mary's Medical Center: Examining the Alternatives**

St. Mary's Medical Center, another major hospital in Huntington, also serves the 25703 area. Like Cabell Huntington Hospital, St. Mary's Medical Center is a large, regional facility.

St. Mary's Medical Center currently does not have a CMS star rating.

St. Mary's Medical Center has a cancer center, which should also offer a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including a multidisciplinary team. Accreditation by the CoC is another key indicator of quality to check.

St. Mary's Medical Center provides similar diagnostic and treatment services for lung cancer, including imaging, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Investigate the specific technologies available, such as advanced radiation therapy techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

ER wait times are another important factor. Research the average wait times at St. Mary's Medical Center, using available data.

Telehealth services are likely available. Confirm the specific telehealth options available for oncology patients, including the types of appointments offered (e.g., follow-up, medication management).

**Beyond Huntington: Exploring Regional Options**

While Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center are the primary local options, patients should consider hospitals further afield.

**Charleston Area Hospitals:**

Charleston, WV, is within driving distance. Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC) is a significant player in the region. Research CAMC's lung cancer services, including their cancer center accreditations, treatment options, and specialist availability. Investigate their CMS star rating, if available.

**Columbus, OH:**

Columbus, Ohio, offers access to major medical centers like The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. These facilities often have highly specialized cancer centers and advanced treatment options. While a longer drive, the potential for access to cutting-edge research and specialized expertise may be worth considering. Research their lung cancer programs, including their CMS star ratings, if available, and the availability of clinical trials.

**Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Beyond hospital-specific metrics, several factors are crucial when choosing a hospital for lung cancer care.

* **Specialist Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists are paramount. Inquire about the specialists' training, board certifications, and years of experience.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team approach, with specialists working collaboratively to develop a personalized treatment plan.
* **Advanced Technology:** Access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, and targeted therapies, can significantly impact outcomes.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to the latest treatment options.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, support groups, counseling, and palliative care.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Research patient satisfaction scores and read reviews to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Specific Questions to Ask**

When evaluating hospitals, patients should ask specific questions.

* What is the hospital's annual volume of lung cancer surgeries?
* What minimally invasive surgical techniques are available?
* Does the hospital offer advanced radiation therapy techniques?
* Does the hospital participate in clinical trials for lung cancer?
* What support services are available for lung cancer patients?
* What is the average ER wait time?
* What telehealth options are available for oncology patients?

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near the 25703 ZIP code. By researching the factors outlined above, asking specific questions, and consulting with their physician, patients can make an informed decision and receive the best possible care. The absence of a CMS star rating should not automatically disqualify a hospital. Instead, patients should delve into the specific services, specialists, and technologies offered by each facility to determine the best fit for their individual needs. Remember, this is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of treatment.