26169, Rockport, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26169, Rockport, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 26169: A Detailed Review**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. This review focuses on the quality of prostate cancer care available near ZIP code 26169, providing a fact-based assessment of hospitals, their services, and performance metrics. The goal is to empower patients with information to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Regional Overview and Key Considerations**

ZIP code 26169, located in West Virginia, necessitates a review of regional healthcare options. Due to the potential for travel, hospitals within a reasonable radius are considered. This review prioritizes hospitals with established urology departments, comprehensive cancer centers, and access to advanced technologies. Factors such as physician experience, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction are crucial considerations.

**Hospital Profiles and Performance Metrics**

**1. WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center (Parkersburg, WV)**

WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, located in Parkersburg, WV, is a significant healthcare provider in the region. It's a general medical and surgical facility. While specific prostate cancer center designations aren't readily available, the hospital has a urology department that provides diagnostic and treatment services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Camden Clark has 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.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or a third-party service before visiting the ER.
* **Telehealth:** Camden Clark offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. The availability and scope of telehealth for urology and prostate cancer care specifically should be confirmed directly with the hospital.
* **Specialty Centers:** Camden Clark offers a cancer center, which provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including diagnostic services, treatment, and support services. The specifics of the prostate cancer program within the cancer center should be confirmed.

**2. Marietta Memorial Hospital (Marietta, OH)**

Marietta Memorial Hospital, located across the Ohio River in Marietta, OH, is another important option for residents near 26169.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Marietta Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are subject to change. Check the hospital's website or a third-party service for current estimates.
* **Telehealth:** Marietta Memorial offers telehealth services. Confirm the availability of telehealth options for urology and prostate cancer care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Marietta Memorial Hospital has a cancer center that provides a range of cancer services. It's important to inquire about the specific prostate cancer services offered, including the availability of advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**3. Memorial Health System (Marietta, OH)**

Memorial Health System is the parent organization of Marietta Memorial Hospital. The system's broader resources and specialized centers may offer additional advantages for prostate cancer patients.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The CMS star rating for Marietta Memorial Hospital, as part of the Memorial Health System, is 3 stars.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through third-party services.
* **Telehealth:** Memorial Health System offers telehealth services. The availability of urology and prostate cancer telehealth appointments should be confirmed.
* **Specialty Centers:** Memorial Health System's cancer center is a key resource. Inquire about the specific prostate cancer services, including the availability of advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**4. The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (Columbus, OH)**

While located further afield in Columbus, OH, The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is a highly regarded cancer center that could be a consideration for patients seeking specialized care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where The James is located, has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center can vary. Check the hospital's website for current estimates.
* **Telehealth:** The James Cancer Hospital offers telehealth services. The availability of urology and prostate cancer telehealth appointments should be confirmed.
* **Specialty Centers:** The James Cancer Hospital is a comprehensive cancer center. It offers a full range of prostate cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and clinical trials. It is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center.

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

Cabell Huntington Hospital is located in Huntington, WV.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Cabell Huntington Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can fluctuate. Check the hospital's website or a third-party service for current estimates.
* **Telehealth:** Cabell Huntington Hospital offers telehealth services. Confirm the availability of telehealth options for urology and prostate cancer care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Cabell Huntington Hospital has a cancer center. Inquire about the specific prostate cancer services offered, including the availability of advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**Evaluating Prostate Cancer Care: Key Considerations**

Beyond hospital ratings and profiles, patients should consider several factors when choosing a provider for prostate cancer care:

* **Physician Experience:** The experience and expertise of the urologist and other specialists are critical. Inquire about the number of prostate cancer cases treated annually, the specific surgical techniques used (e.g., robotic-assisted surgery), and the physician's training and certifications.
* **Treatment Options:** Assess the range of treatment options available, including surgery, radiation therapy (e.g., external beam radiation, brachytherapy), hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and emerging therapies.
* **Technology and Equipment:** The availability of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., MRI, PET scans) and treatment equipment (e.g., robotic surgical systems) can significantly impact care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Prostate cancer care often requires a multidisciplinary team, including urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, and support staff.
* **Patient Support Services:** Access to support services, such as patient education, counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs, is essential for comprehensive care.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments and research opportunities.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Review patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the patient experience, including communication, compassion, and overall satisfaction with care.

**Telehealth and Prostate Cancer Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in prostate cancer care. It can facilitate:

* **Initial Consultations:** Remote consultations with urologists and other specialists.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Monitoring patients after treatment, discussing side effects, and adjusting medications.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Using wearable devices and remote monitoring systems to track patient symptoms and vital signs.
* **Patient Education:** Providing educational resources and support through online platforms.

**Important Considerations for Telehealth**

* **Technology Requirements:** Ensure you have the necessary technology, such as a computer, smartphone, and reliable internet access.
* **Privacy and Security:** Confirm that the telehealth platform complies with HIPAA regulations to protect patient privacy.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that your insurance plan covers telehealth services.
* **Accessibility:** Inquire about the accessibility of telehealth services for individuals with disabilities.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital and healthcare team for prostate cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near ZIP code 26169, offering information on available hospitals, their services, and performance metrics. Patients should conduct thorough research, consult with their primary care physician, and seek second opinions to make informed decisions about their care. Remember to ask detailed questions about physician experience, treatment options, technology, and support services. Consider the potential benefits of telehealth, but ensure you understand the technology requirements and privacy considerations. By taking these steps, patients can increase their chances of receiving high-quality, comprehensive prostate cancer care.