26264, Durbin, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26264, Durbin, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Mountain State: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 26264**

The ZIP code 26264 encompasses the town of Parsons, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains. For residents facing a lung cancer diagnosis, access to high-quality medical care is paramount. This review analyzes the hospitals within a reasonable radius of Parsons, focusing on their lung cancer treatment capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

West Virginia, like many rural areas, presents unique healthcare challenges. Distance, limited resources, and the prevalence of certain risk factors, such as smoking, can impact lung cancer incidence and treatment outcomes. Therefore, understanding the available options is crucial.

**Key Hospitals and Their Capabilities**

**WVU Medicine – J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV)**

Located approximately 100 miles northwest of Parsons, J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown is the flagship hospital of the West Virginia University (WVU) Medicine system. This is a Level I Trauma Center and a major referral center for the state. Ruby Memorial is a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full spectrum of lung cancer services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Ruby Memorial holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** The hospital boasts a dedicated oncology department with specialized pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging and bronchoscopy, to accurately stage and diagnose lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ruby Memorial provides a wide range of treatment options, including surgery (lobectomy, pneumonectomy), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy (including stereotactic body radiation therapy, or SBRT).
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check the hospital's website or use online tools for real-time updates.
* **Telehealth:** WVU Medicine has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring for patients. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling for appointments.
* **Research and Clinical Trials:** As a major teaching hospital, Ruby Memorial actively participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.
* **Accessibility:** While the distance from Parsons is significant, Ruby Memorial's comprehensive services and advanced capabilities make it a primary choice for complex lung cancer cases.

**United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV)**

Approximately 60 miles northwest of Parsons, United Hospital Center (UHC) in Clarksburg is another significant healthcare provider. UHC offers a range of services, including cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UHC has a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** UHC has a cancer center that provides lung cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services.
* **Treatment Options:** UHC offers surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other supportive care services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Like other hospitals, ER wait times vary. Checking the hospital's website or online resources for current wait times is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** UHC also provides telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Accessibility:** UHC is closer to Parsons than Ruby Memorial, making it a more accessible option for some patients.

**Davis Medical Center (Elkins, WV)**

Located approximately 20 miles south of Parsons, Davis Medical Center in Elkins is a community hospital serving the local area.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Davis Medical Center holds a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** Davis Medical Center offers cancer care services, including diagnosis and treatment. They may have partnerships with larger hospitals for specialized care.
* **Treatment Options:** Davis Medical Center provides chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be checked on the hospital's website or through online resources.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options may be available.
* **Accessibility:** Davis Medical Center's proximity to Parsons makes it a convenient option for local residents.

**Other Considerations**

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. These times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. It's essential to check the most current wait times on hospital websites or through online resources before seeking emergency care.

**Telehealth's Role:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It allows patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring without traveling long distances. The availability and quality of telehealth services should be considered when evaluating a hospital's capabilities.

**Patient Experience and Support:** Beyond medical treatments, patient experience and support services are crucial. This includes access to support groups, patient navigators, and palliative care.

**Navigating the System**

**Consultation with Primary Care Physician:** The first step in dealing with a suspected lung cancer diagnosis is to consult with a primary care physician. They can order initial tests, provide referrals to specialists, and help navigate the healthcare system.

**Second Opinions:** Seeking a second opinion from another oncologist or specialist is always a good idea, especially when facing a complex diagnosis like lung cancer. This can help confirm the diagnosis, explore alternative treatment options, and provide peace of mind.

**Financial Considerations:** The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, financial assistance programs, and payment options.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Parsons, WV (ZIP code 26264), the healthcare landscape offers a range of options for lung cancer care. While the WVU Medicine – J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown provides the most comprehensive services and advanced treatments, the United Hospital Center in Clarksburg and Davis Medical Center in Elkins are more accessible options. The choice of hospital depends on the individual's needs, the complexity of the cancer, and personal preferences. It's crucial to consider factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth options, and patient support services when making this critical decision. Consulting with a primary care physician, seeking second opinions, and understanding financial implications are all essential steps in navigating the healthcare system and receiving the best possible care.