24228, Clintwood, Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 24228, Clintwood, Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24228**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 24228 (Big Stone Gap, Virginia), evaluating their prostate cancer care based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. While proximity is a factor, the quality of care should always be the primary consideration.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The area around Big Stone Gap, Virginia, is primarily served by hospitals in Southwest Virginia and neighboring regions of Kentucky and Tennessee. The availability of specialized prostate cancer care varies, with larger, tertiary care centers typically offering the most comprehensive services. Smaller community hospitals may offer basic screening and initial treatment, but complex cases often necessitate referral to a larger facility.

**Key Metrics for Evaluation**

Several factors are crucial when assessing a hospital's prostate cancer care. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on quality measures, patient experience, and other factors. A higher star rating generally indicates better overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to prostate cancer care, long ER wait times can reflect hospital efficiency and resource allocation.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence of dedicated cancer centers, urology departments, and radiation oncology facilities is essential for comprehensive prostate cancer treatment.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth offers convenient access to specialists, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Physician Expertise:** The experience and qualifications of urologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists are critical.

**Hospital Profiles**

**Norton Community Hospital (Norton, VA)**

Norton Community Hospital, located approximately 20 miles from Big Stone Gap, is a community hospital serving the area. As of late 2023, its CMS star rating was unavailable. It offers a range of services, including urology and general surgery. However, it may not have the same level of specialized cancer care as larger regional centers. ER wait times are generally moderate, averaging around 30-60 minutes. Telehealth options are limited, primarily for follow-up appointments. Patients with complex cases may need to be referred to larger facilities.

**Mountain View Regional Medical Center (Norton, VA)**

Mountain View Regional Medical Center, also in Norton, is another local option. Information on its CMS star rating was not readily available. The hospital provides a variety of services, including urology, and may offer some basic prostate cancer screening and treatment. ER wait times are comparable to Norton Community Hospital. Telehealth options are limited. Like Norton Community Hospital, patients with more advanced prostate cancer may need to seek care elsewhere.

**Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN)**

Holston Valley Medical Center, part of Ballad Health, is located in Kingsport, Tennessee, approximately 45 miles from Big Stone Gap. It is a larger regional medical center. As of late 2023, Holston Valley Medical Center had a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Holston Valley Cancer Center, offering a range of services, including radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology. ER wait times are typically longer than at smaller community hospitals, averaging around 45-90 minutes. Telehealth services are available, providing access to specialists for consultations and follow-up care. Holston Valley has a well-established urology department and a team of experienced specialists.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN)**

Bristol Regional Medical Center, also part of Ballad Health, is located in Bristol, Tennessee, about 50 miles from Big Stone Gap. It is another major regional medical center. As of late 2023, Bristol Regional Medical Center had a CMS star rating of 3 stars. The hospital has a cancer center, offering comprehensive cancer care services, including radiation therapy and medical oncology. ER wait times are similar to Holston Valley, averaging around 45-90 minutes. Telehealth services are available. Bristol Regional Medical Center has a strong urology department and a team of experienced physicians.

**Wellmont Medical Associates (Kingsport, TN)**

Wellmont Medical Associates, part of Ballad Health, operates several clinics and outpatient centers in the Kingsport area, offering services related to urology. While not a hospital, it is a significant provider of urological care in the region. It is important to check the specific credentials of the physicians and the services offered at each location. Telehealth is available for some appointments.

**University of Virginia Medical Center (Charlottesville, VA)**

While a significant distance away (approximately 250 miles), the University of Virginia Medical Center (UVA) in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a leading academic medical center. UVA has a comprehensive cancer center, the UVA Cancer Center, with specialized prostate cancer care. As of late 2023, UVA had a CMS star rating of 4 stars. The hospital has state-of-the-art facilities, experienced specialists, and access to clinical trials. ER wait times are longer than at smaller hospitals. Telehealth services are available. UVA is a top-tier facility for complex prostate cancer cases.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Stage of Cancer:** The stage of prostate cancer is a crucial factor in determining the appropriate treatment. Early-stage cancers may be managed with less aggressive treatments, while advanced cancers require more comprehensive care.
* **Treatment Options:** Consider the range of treatment options offered by each hospital, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and clinical trials.
* **Physician Experience:** Research the experience and qualifications of the urologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists involved in your care.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's patient-centered approach and the quality of care provided.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling services.

**Telehealth and its Role**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Many hospitals in the region offer telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with specialists remotely. This can be especially beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to appointments. However, telehealth may not be appropriate for all types of care, such as initial diagnoses or complex procedures.

**ER Wait Times and Hospital Efficiency**

ER wait times can be an indicator of hospital efficiency and resource allocation. While not directly related to prostate cancer care, long wait times can be a sign of potential delays in other areas of the hospital. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient and responsive healthcare system.

**Conclusion**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care is a significant decision. For residents near ZIP code 24228, options range from local community hospitals to larger regional medical centers and even a distant academic medical center. Norton Community Hospital and Mountain View Regional Medical Center offer local options, while Holston Valley Medical Center and Bristol Regional Medical Center provide more comprehensive care. The University of Virginia Medical Center offers a top-tier option for complex cases. The best choice depends on individual needs, the stage of cancer, and the desired level of care. Patients should carefully consider the factors outlined in this review, research their options, and consult with their primary care physician or a urologist to make an informed decision. Remember to prioritize hospitals with experienced specialists, comprehensive treatment options, and a commitment to patient-centered care.