41204, Boons Camp, Kentucky Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 41204, Boons Camp, Kentucky is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 41204**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 41204, offering a fact-rich overview of their prostate cancer care capabilities, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth statistics. We aim to provide a clear picture to help patients make informed choices.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 41204 primarily encompasses the city of Ashland, Kentucky, and its surrounding areas. Healthcare options in this region are shaped by factors like population density, access to specialists, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas can expand treatment choices, but local facilities often serve as the first point of contact and offer crucial services.

**King's Daughters Medical Center (Ashland, KY)**

King's Daughters Medical Center (KDMC) is a major healthcare provider in the region, serving as a hub for medical services in Ashland. While not a flagship facility with a national reputation, KDMC offers a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer care. The hospital features a dedicated oncology department, providing services from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up.

* **CMS Star Rating:** KDMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Prostate Cancer Services:** KDMC provides diagnostic services, including biopsies and imaging. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The hospital's urology department is staffed with specialists experienced in prostate cancer management.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check the most recent data available on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.
* **Specialty Centers:** KDMC has a cancer center that coordinates care for various cancers, including prostate cancer. The center offers support services like patient navigation and support groups.
* **Telehealth:** KDMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues.
* **Access to Specialists:** KDMC offers access to urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. The hospital’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care.

**Cabell Huntington Hospital (Huntington, WV)**

Located across the state line in Huntington, West Virginia, Cabell Huntington Hospital is a regional referral center, offering a wider range of specialized services. This hospital is within reasonable driving distance of Ashland and may be considered by patients seeking advanced treatment options.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Cabell Huntington Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Prostate Cancer Services:** Cabell Huntington Hospital offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options for prostate cancer. The hospital has a comprehensive cancer center that provides state-of-the-art radiation therapy, including brachytherapy and external beam radiation. Surgical options include robotic-assisted prostatectomy.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Patients should consult the hospital's website or the CMS Hospital Compare website for current information.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital's Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center is a key resource for prostate cancer patients. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various fields collaborating on patient care.
* **Telehealth:** Cabell Huntington Hospital has expanded its telehealth services.
* **Access to Specialists:** Cabell Huntington Hospital has a large team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other support staff.

**St. Mary's Medical Center (Huntington, WV)**

Also in Huntington, West Virginia, St. Mary's Medical Center is another option for prostate cancer treatment. The hospital is part of the Mountain Health Network.

* **CMS Star Rating:** St. Mary's Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Prostate Cancer Services:** St. Mary's Medical Center offers a range of prostate cancer services, including diagnosis, surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** Patients should check the hospital's website or the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most recent ER wait time data.
* **Specialty Centers:** St. Mary's has a cancer center that provides comprehensive care for patients with various cancers, including prostate cancer.
* **Telehealth:** St. Mary's has expanded its telehealth services.
* **Access to Specialists:** The hospital has a team of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists.

**Considering Out-of-State Options**

While the hospitals in Ashland and Huntington provide valuable services, some patients may consider facilities in larger metropolitan areas for specialized treatment options.

**University of Kentucky Healthcare (Lexington, KY)**

Located approximately 130 miles from Ashland, the University of Kentucky Healthcare system offers a comprehensive cancer center. It is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, which signifies a high level of research and clinical expertise.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UK Healthcare has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Prostate Cancer Services:** The Markey Cancer Center at UK Healthcare offers cutting-edge diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging techniques. Treatment options include robotic surgery, advanced radiation therapy, and clinical trials.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Patients should consult the hospital's website or the CMS Hospital Compare website for current information.
* **Specialty Centers:** The Markey Cancer Center is a major resource.
* **Telehealth:** UK Healthcare has a robust telehealth program.
* **Access to Specialists:** UK Healthcare has a large team of specialists, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other support staff.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment.

* **Experience and Expertise:** The experience of the urologist and other specialists is crucial. Patients should inquire about the number of prostate cancer cases the specialists have treated and their specific expertise.
* **Treatment Options:** The hospital should offer a range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The availability of advanced technologies, such as robotic surgery and brachytherapy, is also important.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Prostate cancer care often requires a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various fields collaborating on patient care. The hospital should have a well-coordinated team of urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other support staff.
* **Patient Support Services:** The hospital should offer comprehensive patient support services, including patient navigation, support groups, and counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Patients should verify that the hospital and its specialists are in their insurance network.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider the hospital's patient satisfaction scores, which can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Telehealth's Role**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth can provide patients with access to specialists, remote monitoring, and virtual consultations. Hospitals near ZIP code 41204 have expanded their telehealth capabilities.

**ER Wait Times: A Caveat**

ER wait times can fluctuate. These times are influenced by factors like the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. Patients should check the most recent data available on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a significant decision. Patients near ZIP code 41204 have several options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. KDMC provides local care, while hospitals in Huntington, WV, offer additional resources. The University of Kentucky Healthcare system in Lexington provides access to a NCI-designated cancer center. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, insurance coverage, and the expertise of the specialists when making their decision. Consulting with a primary care physician or a urologist is essential to determine the best course of action.