26757, Romney, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26757, Romney, West Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Moorefield, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26757): A Detailed Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Access to quality healthcare, particularly specialized lung cancer care, becomes paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near Moorefield, West Virginia (ZIP code 26757), providing a detailed look at their capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Regional Overview and Key Considerations**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Moorefield is largely shaped by its rural setting. Residents often rely on a network of hospitals and healthcare providers that extend beyond the immediate vicinity. Travel time, access to specialized services, and the availability of advanced technologies are critical factors when selecting a hospital for lung cancer treatment.

**WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center (Martinsburg, WV)**

Located approximately 90 miles northeast of Moorefield, WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center is a significant regional healthcare provider. While not directly in Moorefield, its proximity and comprehensive services make it a primary consideration. Berkeley Medical Center is a large facility with a strong presence in the area.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Berkeley Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** Berkeley Medical Center has a dedicated oncology department. They offer a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. They often collaborate with WVU Cancer Institute specialists.
* **ER Wait Times:** The ER wait times at Berkeley Medical Center can vary. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or use online tools to get the most up-to-date information on current wait times.
* **Telehealth:** WVU Medicine has a robust telehealth program. This includes virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas who may have difficulty traveling.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Berkeley Medical Center is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including CT scanners, PET scanners, and radiation therapy equipment.
* **Accessibility:** The hospital is accessible by car, and there are often transportation services available for patients who require assistance.

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

Approximately 120 miles northwest of Moorefield, J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital is the flagship hospital of the WVU Medicine system. As a tertiary care center, it offers a wider range of specialized services and advanced treatments.

* **CMS Star Rating:** J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** The hospital houses the WVU Cancer Institute, a comprehensive cancer center. This institute provides a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including diagnosis, staging, treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy), and supportive care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Ruby Memorial can be longer than at smaller hospitals due to the high volume of patients. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools for real-time updates is advisable.
* **Telehealth:** Ruby Memorial Hospital has a well-developed telehealth program, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.
* **Specialty Centers:** The WVU Cancer Institute offers specialized programs for various types of cancer, including lung cancer. They have a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers.
* **Research and Clinical Trials:** As a major academic medical center, Ruby Memorial Hospital is actively involved in lung cancer research and clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.
* **Accessibility:** The hospital is accessible by car, and there are often transportation services available for patients who require assistance.

**Potomac Valley Hospital (Keyser, WV)**

Located approximately 30 miles west of Moorefield, Potomac Valley Hospital is a smaller, community-based hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Potomac Valley Hospital currently has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Lung Cancer Specialty:** Potomac Valley Hospital offers basic cancer care services. Patients may need to be referred to larger hospitals, such as Berkeley Medical Center or Ruby Memorial Hospital, for specialized lung cancer treatment.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are generally shorter than at larger hospitals.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options may be available, often through partnerships with larger healthcare systems.
* **Accessibility:** The hospital is accessible by car.

**Other Considerations and Factors**

* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of dedicated lung cancer centers, such as those at Ruby Memorial Hospital, is a significant advantage. These centers typically have multidisciplinary teams, access to advanced technologies, and a focus on research and clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** Long ER wait times can be a concern, especially for patients with acute symptoms. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel and providing access to specialists.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider factors such as patient reviews, the hospital's overall culture, and the availability of support services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan and that your specific treatment is covered.
* **Second Opinions:** Seeking a second opinion from another oncologist or cancer center is always a good idea.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Moorefield, WV (26757), the best options for lung cancer care involve a combination of local access and regional expertise. WVU Medicine – Berkeley Medical Center and WVU Medicine – J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital offer comprehensive services, including specialized lung cancer programs, advanced technologies, and telehealth options. Potomac Valley Hospital provides local access but may require referrals for specialized treatment. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when making their healthcare decisions. Consulting with your primary care physician and/or a pulmonologist is essential to navigate the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.