27050, Tobaccoville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27050, Tobaccoville, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Piedmont Triad: A Scorecard for 27050

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Finding the right care, close to home, is crucial. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 27050 (Mount Airy, North Carolina) to provide a fact-based assessment of breast cancer services, focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, wait times, and specialized programs.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Piedmont Triad region offers a range of healthcare options, from large, multi-hospital systems to smaller community hospitals. Proximity to major medical centers in Winston-Salem and Greensboro expands the possibilities, but travel time and access remain critical factors for patients in Mount Airy and surrounding areas.

**Focus on Key Hospitals:**

This review concentrates on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of 27050, evaluating their breast cancer services based on publicly available data and reported information.

**Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital (Elkin, NC):**

Located approximately 20 miles from Mount Airy, Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital is a community hospital serving Surry County. While not a flagship cancer center, it provides essential services. The hospital’s breast cancer services include diagnostic imaging, such as mammograms and ultrasounds. They offer surgical options, including lumpectomies and mastectomies, and partner with local oncologists for chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Hugh Chatham’s overall CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is available on the CMS website, reflecting its overall quality of care. ER wait times are a key factor for any patient, and this information is available on the hospital’s website. Telehealth services are increasingly important for follow-up appointments and consultations. The hospital’s telehealth capabilities for oncology patients should be checked directly with the hospital.

**Northern Hospital of Surry County (Mount Airy, NC):**

Northern Hospital, located within Mount Airy, is a critical access hospital and a primary healthcare provider for the local community. Their breast cancer program includes screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, and surgical services. They collaborate with oncologists and radiation oncologists for comprehensive cancer care. Northern Hospital also offers support services such as patient navigation and support groups. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall quality, and this information is readily available on the CMS website. ER wait times are a significant consideration for residents of Mount Airy. The hospital’s website or local sources provide this information. Northern Hospital likely offers some telehealth services. Patients should confirm the availability of telehealth appointments with the hospital’s oncology department.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health - Davie Medical Center (Bermuda Run, NC):**

Approximately 40 miles from Mount Airy, Davie Medical Center is part of the larger Wake Forest Baptist Health system, a major healthcare provider in the region. Davie Medical Center provides breast cancer screening and diagnostic services, including mammography and ultrasound. They offer surgical options and collaborate with oncologists for chemotherapy and radiation therapy. As a part of a larger system, Davie Medical Center likely has access to a broader range of specialists and resources. The CMS star rating for Davie Medical Center is a key indicator of overall quality. ER wait times are a significant factor. The hospital’s website or local sources provide this information. Telehealth is increasingly important, and Wake Forest Baptist Health is likely to offer telehealth services for oncology patients. Confirm availability with the hospital.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem, NC):**

This is the flagship hospital of the Wake Forest Baptist Health system and is located approximately 50 miles from Mount Airy. It's a major academic medical center and a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full spectrum of breast cancer services. The comprehensive cancer center likely has a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. They offer advanced imaging techniques, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and PET scans. Surgical options include lumpectomy, mastectomy (including skin-sparing and nipple-sparing mastectomies), and reconstructive surgery. They provide access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments. The hospital's CMS star rating reflects its overall quality. ER wait times are a critical factor. The hospital’s website or local sources provide this information. Telehealth services are likely extensive, and patients should check the availability of telehealth appointments with the oncology department.

**Cone Health Cancer Center (Greensboro, NC):**

Cone Health is a large healthcare system with a significant presence in the Piedmont Triad. The Cone Health Cancer Center, located approximately 60 miles from Mount Airy, offers comprehensive breast cancer services. This center typically provides a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and other related fields. They offer advanced imaging, surgical options, and access to clinical trials. The CMS star rating for Cone Health facilities is a key indicator of overall quality. ER wait times are a significant factor. The hospital’s website or local sources provide this information. Telehealth services are likely available, and patients should check the availability of telehealth appointments with the oncology department.

**Key Metrics and Considerations:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, offer a general indication of hospital quality based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Higher star ratings generally indicate better performance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Long wait times in the emergency room can be stressful, especially for patients with urgent medical needs. Checking the average wait times for each hospital is important.
* **Specialty Centers and Multidisciplinary Teams:** Look for hospitals with dedicated breast cancer centers or programs that offer a multidisciplinary approach. This means a team of specialists (surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, etc.) working together to provide comprehensive care.
* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI, can improve early detection and diagnosis.
* **Surgical Options:** The availability of various surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery, is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer support services, such as patient navigation, support groups, and counseling.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services can be valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring.

**Making an Informed Choice:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Consider the following:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for treatment?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Specialist Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists.
* **Hospital Reputation:** Read patient reviews and check the hospital's overall reputation.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences and needs, such as the availability of support services and the hospital's overall environment.

**Conclusion:**

Breast cancer care in the vicinity of ZIP code 27050 offers a range of options. While Northern Hospital and Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital provide essential services, the larger medical centers in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, such as Wake Forest Baptist Health and Cone Health, offer more comprehensive resources and specialized care. Patients should carefully evaluate their needs and preferences, considering the factors outlined in this review, to make the best decision for their individual circumstances. Always consult with your primary care physician or a specialist to discuss your specific needs and treatment options. Remember to verify all information directly with the hospitals, as services and availability can change.