Lung Cancer Score

26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

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Health Scores

Hospital Score in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia

Lung Cancer Score 81
People Score 69
Provider Score 62
Hospital Score 32
Travel Score 77

Hospital Score Review of 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia

## Lung Cancer Care Near Bridgeport, WV: A Scorecard

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task, and choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on the healthcare landscape near Bridgeport, West Virginia (ZIP code 26330), providing a fact-rich assessment of hospitals offering lung cancer treatment options. The goal is to equip patients and their families with the information needed to make informed decisions. Data is drawn from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reliable sources.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare options in and around Bridgeport, WV, are primarily influenced by the presence of larger regional healthcare systems. The availability of specialized lung cancer care varies, and patients may need to travel to access comprehensive treatment options. The review will consider factors such as hospital ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**United Hospital Center (Clarksburg, WV): A Central Hub**

United Hospital Center (UHC) in Clarksburg, WV, is a prominent healthcare provider serving the Bridgeport area. UHC is a member of WVU Medicine. UHC is a 300+ bed facility offering a range of medical services, including oncology. UHC's CMS star rating is unavailable.

UHC's cancer services are centralized within the WVU Cancer Institute. The Institute provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, which is crucial for lung cancer treatment. This typically involves medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and support staff. UHC offers radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

ER wait times at UHC fluctuate, but typically average around 30-60 minutes, according to recent data. This can be a factor for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress or other urgent symptoms related to their lung cancer. Telehealth services are available at UHC, which may be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Specific telehealth statistics are not readily available.

**WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital (Morgantown, WV): A Flagship Option**

WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, WV, approximately an hour's drive from Bridgeport, is a flagship hospital within the WVU Medicine system. Ruby Memorial is a major referral center for the region and offers a comprehensive cancer program. Ruby Memorial has a 3-star CMS rating.

Ruby Memorial's Cancer Institute is a major draw for lung cancer patients. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic capabilities, including advanced imaging techniques, and a full spectrum of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials. Ruby Memorial's thoracic surgery program is well-regarded, and the hospital has a dedicated lung cancer screening program.

ER wait times at Ruby Memorial can vary, often exceeding the national average. Recent data indicates wait times can range from 60 to 90 minutes or longer, depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. Ruby Memorial has a robust telehealth program. Specific statistics on telehealth utilization for lung cancer patients are not publicly available, but the hospital offers telehealth consultations for oncology patients.

**Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital (Weston, WV): Local Care**

Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston, WV, is a smaller community hospital located closer to Bridgeport. While not a specialized cancer center, Stonewall Jackson provides essential healthcare services, including primary care and some outpatient services. The hospital’s CMS star rating is unavailable.

Stonewall Jackson may offer limited cancer services, such as chemotherapy administration, in collaboration with larger cancer centers. Patients may need to travel to UHC or Ruby Memorial for more advanced treatments. ER wait times at Stonewall Jackson are typically shorter than at larger hospitals, often averaging around 30 minutes. Telehealth services may be available.

**Other Considerations:**

**Specialty Centers:** While the hospitals mentioned above are the primary options, patients may also consider specialty centers or programs within the broader region. These could include specialized radiation oncology centers or clinical trial sites.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for oncology patients. Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Clinical Trials:** Patients should inquire about clinical trial opportunities at each hospital. Clinical trials offer access to cutting-edge treatments and may provide hope for patients who have not responded to standard therapies.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are essential. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website provide information on patient experiences, including satisfaction with care, communication, and overall hospital experience.

**Access to Care:** Consider the ease of access to each hospital, including travel time, parking availability, and public transportation options.

**Financial Considerations:** Understand the cost of care and the hospital's billing practices. Check with your insurance provider to determine which hospitals are in-network and what your out-of-pocket expenses may be.

**Specific Treatment Options:**

* **Surgery:** Thoracic surgery is a primary treatment for early-stage lung cancer. The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is a critical factor.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Radiation therapy is used to treat lung cancer, often in combination with other treatments. Access to advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is beneficial.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment used to kill cancer cells. The availability of experienced medical oncologists and chemotherapy infusion centers is essential.
* **Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy:** These newer treatments are increasingly used in lung cancer. Access to these therapies depends on the availability of specialized oncologists and clinical trials.

**Conclusion:**

For lung cancer patients near Bridgeport, WV, the best options are likely to be UHC and Ruby Memorial Hospital. Ruby Memorial, with its 3-star CMS rating and comprehensive cancer program, is a strong choice, although it is further away and may have longer ER wait times. UHC, as a member of WVU Medicine, offers a more local option with a multidisciplinary approach. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making their decision. Thorough research, consultation with physicians, and a focus on patient experience are critical for navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment. This review provides a starting point for that process.

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Health Scores Near 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia

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Health Scores in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia