26170, Saint Marys, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26170, Saint Marys, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Mid-Ohio Valley: A Scorecard for 26170

Finding the best lung cancer care near your home is crucial, and for residents of the 26170 ZIP code (Parkersburg, West Virginia, and surrounding areas), several hospitals offer services. This review analyzes key factors to help you navigate the options, focusing on quality of care, accessibility, and specialized resources. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive overview.

**The Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The primary hospitals serving the 26170 area include WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center and Marietta Memorial Hospital. Both offer comprehensive medical services, including oncology departments that treat lung cancer. While other smaller facilities might provide some diagnostic or supportive services, these two hospitals are the primary hubs for comprehensive lung cancer treatment in the immediate vicinity.

**WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center: A Closer Look**

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center is a significant healthcare provider in the region. As of late 2023, Camden Clark holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, based on measures like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates an average performance, it's essential to consider the specific areas of strength and weakness within the hospital's oncology department.

Camden Clark's oncology services are provided through the WVU Cancer Institute. This affiliation provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources, including potential clinical trials and advanced treatment options. However, the specific scope of the local cancer institute's capabilities, including its ability to offer cutting-edge treatments such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, requires further investigation.

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for any patient, especially those experiencing cancer-related complications. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's important to know that Camden Clark's ER wait times can vary. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead for current estimates is always recommended. Long wait times can be stressful and potentially delay critical care.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important for cancer patients, offering convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Camden Clark offers telehealth services, but the extent of their availability for oncology patients, including the types of appointments available and the specialists offering telehealth, should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Marietta Memorial Hospital: Across the River**

Located across the Ohio River in Marietta, Ohio, Marietta Memorial Hospital is another option for residents of the 26170 ZIP code. Marietta Memorial does not have a CMS star rating. It is important to note that CMS star ratings are not available for all hospitals, and a lack of a rating does not necessarily indicate poor quality of care.

Marietta Memorial's Strecker Cancer Center offers comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The center is equipped with advanced technology, including advanced imaging systems. The specific types of radiation therapy available, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which is often used for lung cancer, should be verified.

ER wait times at Marietta Memorial also fluctuate. Patients should check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

Marietta Memorial Hospital also offers telehealth services. The availability of telehealth appointments with oncology specialists should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Centers and Resources**

Neither Camden Clark nor Marietta Memorial is a designated National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. NCI-designated centers are recognized for their excellence in cancer research, treatment, and prevention. However, both hospitals likely collaborate with larger cancer centers, potentially offering access to clinical trials and specialized expertise.

When considering lung cancer treatment, patients should inquire about the following specialized services:

* **Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards:** These boards bring together specialists from various disciplines (oncologists, surgeons, pulmonologists, radiologists, etc.) to develop individualized treatment plans.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as PET/CT scans and MRI, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Expertise:** The availability of thoracic surgeons experienced in minimally invasive techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), is important.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and SBRT, can improve treatment outcomes.
* **Medical Oncology:** The ability to offer the latest chemotherapy regimens, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies is essential.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services, including oncology nurses, social workers, dietitians, and support groups, can significantly improve the patient experience.

**Accessibility and Convenience**

Accessibility is a critical factor, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments. Consider the following:

* **Proximity:** How close is the hospital to your home?
* **Transportation:** Is transportation readily available, or will you need to rely on family, friends, or public transportation?
* **Parking:** Is parking convenient and affordable?
* **Appointment Scheduling:** How easy is it to schedule appointments with specialists?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. Inquire about:

* **Types of Telehealth Appointments:** Are virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring available?
* **Technology:** What technology is used for telehealth appointments (e.g., video conferencing platforms)?
* **Specialists:** Which oncology specialists offer telehealth services?
* **Technical Support:** Is technical support available if you experience issues with telehealth technology?

**Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor**

Before making a decision about where to receive lung cancer treatment, it's essential to discuss your options with your primary care physician and, if possible, with an oncologist. Ask these questions:

* Which hospitals in the area offer the best lung cancer care?
* What are the strengths and weaknesses of each hospital's oncology department?
* Which hospital is best suited for my specific type and stage of lung cancer?
* What clinical trials are available?
* What support services are available?

**Making Your Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Consider the factors discussed in this review, and weigh the pros and cons of each option. Remember to prioritize quality of care, accessibility, and your comfort level. By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can make an informed decision and receive the best possible care. Remember that the information provided here is a snapshot in time. Always verify the information directly with the hospitals and your healthcare providers to ensure accuracy.