27013, Cleveland, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27013, Cleveland, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Near Clemmons, NC (ZIP Code 27013)

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a complex journey. Proximity to quality medical facilities is a crucial factor, especially when considering the demanding nature of treatment. This review focuses on hospitals near Clemmons, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27013), assessing their capabilities in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective. This score isn't a single number, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of key metrics and resources.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

Clemmons, NC, benefits from its location near Winston-Salem, a hub for major healthcare providers. This provides residents with access to a range of options, from large academic medical centers to specialized cancer treatment facilities. The key players in this region offer varying levels of expertise and resources, influencing the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**Wake Forest Baptist Health – Medical Center (Winston-Salem):** This is a major player in the region, and a cornerstone of breast cancer care. It's a large academic medical center, offering a full spectrum of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Wake Forest Baptist Health – Medical Center generally holds a strong CMS star rating. The most recent data shows a solid performance, reflecting good overall quality of care. However, it's crucial to check the most up-to-date CMS data, as ratings can fluctuate.
* **Breast Cancer Center:** Wake Forest Baptist Health has a dedicated comprehensive breast cancer center. This center typically houses a multidisciplinary team, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff. This integrated approach is critical for coordinated care.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital boasts specialized programs for various cancer types, including breast cancer. They offer advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. It's recommended to check current wait times on their website or through third-party sources like Google.
* **Telehealth:** Wake Forest Baptist Health has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care, reducing the need for in-person visits. Check their website for specific telehealth availability for breast cancer patients.
* **Research and Clinical Trials:** As an academic medical center, Wake Forest Baptist Health is actively involved in breast cancer research and clinical trials. This provides patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and innovative therapies.
* **Patient Support:** The hospital provides robust patient support services, including support groups, counseling, and financial assistance resources.
* **Breast Cancer Score:** Wake Forest Baptist Health – Medical Center receives a high "Breast Cancer Score" due to its comprehensive services, specialized expertise, research capabilities, and strong patient support.

**Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center (Winston-Salem):** This is another major healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center usually has a solid CMS star rating. Review the most recent data on the CMS website.
* **Breast Cancer Center:** The hospital features a dedicated breast cancer center. This center provides comprehensive care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services.
* **Specialty Centers:** Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center has specialized programs for cancer care, with a focus on providing advanced treatment options.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can fluctuate. Check their website or third-party sources for the most current information.
* **Telehealth:** Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and consultations. Check their website for telehealth options for breast cancer patients.
* **Patient Support:** They provide patient support services, including support groups, educational resources, and assistance with navigating the healthcare system.
* **Breast Cancer Score:** Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center receives a high "Breast Cancer Score" due to its comprehensive services, specialized expertise, and patient support.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Centers**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of 27013 have access to other healthcare facilities that may play a role in breast cancer care.

* **Outpatient Centers:** Numerous outpatient centers and clinics in the area offer diagnostic imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds), and some provide chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These centers can be convenient for specific aspects of care.
* **Community Hospitals:** Smaller community hospitals in the region may offer basic breast cancer services, such as screening and initial diagnosis. However, for complex cases or advanced treatment, patients are often referred to the larger centers.

**Key Metrics for the "Breast Cancer Score"**

Several factors contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for hospitals near 27013.

* **Early Detection Programs:** The availability and accessibility of screening mammography and other early detection programs are critical.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** The quality and accuracy of diagnostic imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs) and biopsy procedures are essential.
* **Treatment Options:** The range of treatment options offered, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies, is a key indicator.
* **Surgical Expertise:** The experience and expertise of surgical oncologists, including their use of minimally invasive techniques, are important.
* **Radiation Therapy Technology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), can impact treatment outcomes.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** The presence of a multidisciplinary team of specialists (medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, and support staff) is crucial for coordinated care.
* **Patient Support Services:** The availability of patient support services, such as support groups, counseling, financial assistance, and survivorship programs, is essential for overall well-being.
* **Research and Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials and research opportunities provides patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The use of telehealth for consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care can improve access to care and reduce travel burdens.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each facility.

* **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Discuss your concerns and get recommendations from your primary care physician.
* **Research Hospitals:** Research the hospitals in the area, focusing on their breast cancer programs, accreditations, and patient outcomes.
* **Check Accreditations:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about treatment options, the expertise of the medical team, and the availability of support services.
* **Consider Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion: A Region of Strong Options**

The area near Clemmons, NC (ZIP Code 27013) offers residents access to a strong network of hospitals and healthcare providers for breast cancer care. The flagship hospitals, Wake Forest Baptist Health – Medical Center and Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, provide comprehensive services, specialized expertise, and access to cutting-edge treatments. The "Breast Cancer Score" for this region is high, reflecting the availability of quality care and support. However, patients should conduct their own research, consider their individual needs, and consult with their healthcare providers to make the best decisions for their care. Remember to always verify the most current information on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth availability directly with the hospitals.