27263, High Point, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27263, High Point, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near High Point, NC (ZIP Code 27263)

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a critical journey. This review analyzes the breast cancer treatment landscape near High Point, North Carolina (ZIP code 27263), focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. We'll examine flagship institutions, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The High Point area is served by a network of hospitals, ranging from large regional medical centers to smaller community hospitals. Access to specialized breast cancer care varies, and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is crucial for informed decision-making. Proximity to larger cities like Greensboro and Winston-Salem expands the options, but also necessitates careful consideration of travel time and logistical factors.

**Cone Health System: A Leading Player**

Cone Health, a prominent healthcare system in the region, is a key provider for breast cancer care. Its flagship hospital, **Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital** in Greensboro, is a significant referral center for the area. While not directly within the 27263 ZIP code, its proximity makes it a primary choice for many residents.

Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality, based on measures like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. This rating is a helpful starting point, but it's essential to delve deeper into specific breast cancer services.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Centers within Cone Health:**

Cone Health operates several specialized centers focused on breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. These centers often boast advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and offer access to clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms or complications. While specific ER wait times can fluctuate, it's important to research average wait times for emergency departments at the hospitals within the Cone Health system. This information is often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Cone Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with convenient access to care from the comfort of their homes. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, reducing the need for frequent travel. The specific availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients should be verified with the hospital.

**Other Hospitals in the Area:**

Several other hospitals serve the High Point area, each with its own strengths and specializations.

**Wesley Long Hospital (Greensboro):** Part of the Cone Health system, Wesley Long Hospital offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and radiation therapy. It is a crucial part of the care network.

**Novant Health System:** Novant Health operates hospitals in the broader region, including **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center** in Winston-Salem. While further from High Point, it provides another option for breast cancer care.

**Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center:** This hospital is another regional referral center and a significant provider of breast cancer services.

**Assessing Hospital Quality:**

When evaluating hospitals, consider several factors beyond CMS star ratings.

* **Accreditation:** Look for accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS), which indicates adherence to rigorous standards for cancer care.
* **Patient Outcomes:** Review data on survival rates, complication rates, and other outcome measures, if available.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.
* **Technology:** Ensure the hospital has access to advanced imaging and treatment technologies, such as tomosynthesis, stereotactic biopsy, and advanced radiation therapy techniques.

**Specific Services to Inquire About:**

When contacting hospitals, ask specific questions about their breast cancer services.

* **Surgical Options:** Inquire about the types of breast surgery offered, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery options.
* **Medical Oncology:** Ask about the availability of chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Determine the types of radiation therapy offered, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about support services, such as counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.
* **Clinical Trials:** Ask about the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Travel Considerations:**

For patients in the 27263 ZIP code, travel time to hospitals in Greensboro and Winston-Salem is a significant factor. Consider the distance, traffic patterns, and parking availability when choosing a hospital.

**The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach:**

Breast cancer treatment is most effective when delivered through a multidisciplinary approach. This means that a team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and nurses, work together to develop a personalized treatment plan. Ensure that the hospital you choose offers a multidisciplinary approach.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. For residents of the 27263 ZIP code, the Cone Health system, with its flagship hospital, Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, and its specialized breast cancer centers, is a primary consideration. However, Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center and other hospitals in the region also offer comprehensive services. Careful research, including reviewing CMS star ratings, assessing ER wait times, and inquiring about telehealth offerings, will help you make an informed decision. Focus on hospitals that offer a multidisciplinary approach, access to advanced technologies, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking referrals from trusted sources is also crucial.