27409, Greensboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27409, Greensboro, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Greensboro, NC: A Deep Dive for Patients Near 27409

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. For residents near Greensboro, NC (ZIP code 27409), several healthcare institutions offer comprehensive breast cancer care. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the leading hospitals, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help patients make informed decisions.

**Cone Health: A Major Player**

Cone Health, a large, integrated health network, is a prominent presence in the Greensboro area. Its flagship hospital, **Wesley Long Hospital**, located at 501 N Elam Ave, Greensboro, NC 27403, is a central point for cancer care. Wesley Long is a well-established facility. While the most recent public data available from CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) shows Wesley Long Hospital with a **3-star rating**. This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various factors, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency.

Cone Health's **Cancer Center** at Wesley Long provides a range of services. The center offers medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. They also boast a dedicated breast cancer program. The Breast Cancer Program at Wesley Long is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care.

**ER Wait Times at Wesley Long**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration for any patient, especially those facing a health crisis. Publicly available data, often sourced from platforms like ProPublica, provides insights into ER wait times. It's important to note that wait times can fluctuate. Wesley Long Hospital's ER wait times, based on publicly available data, are generally in line with the national average. However, specific times can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital's website may offer real-time updates.

**Telehealth Integration**

Cone Health has embraced telehealth to enhance patient access to care. Telehealth services are increasingly integrated into cancer care, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups. Cone Health offers telehealth options for various specialties, including oncology. Patients can often access virtual appointments through a patient portal or a dedicated telehealth platform.

**Other Cone Health Facilities**

Cone Health also operates other facilities in the Greensboro area. **Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital**, located at 1200 N Elm St, Greensboro, NC 27401, is another major hospital within the network. Moses Cone Memorial Hospital has a **3-star rating** from CMS. It's essential to research the specific services and accreditations offered at each facility to determine the best fit for individual needs.

**Novant Health: Another Key Provider**

Novant Health is another major healthcare provider in the region. **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center**, located in Winston-Salem, NC, is a regional referral center and a significant option for patients in the Greensboro area. While not directly in Greensboro, it's within reasonable driving distance for many residents near 27409.

**Forsyth Medical Center**

Forsyth Medical Center has a **4-star rating** from CMS. This higher rating reflects a stronger performance across various quality metrics compared to some other hospitals in the area. Forsyth Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cancer program. The **Hayworth Cancer Center** at Forsyth Medical Center offers a wide range of services, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care.

**ER Wait Times at Forsyth Medical Center**

ER wait times at Forsyth Medical Center are generally competitive. Publicly available data indicates wait times that are often comparable to or slightly better than those at Wesley Long Hospital. It's always advisable to check real-time updates on the hospital's website or through third-party platforms.

**Telehealth at Novant Health**

Novant Health has also invested in telehealth. They provide virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. Novant Health's telehealth platform offers convenient access to care for patients, including those undergoing cancer treatment.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Both Cone Health and Novant Health have specialized centers and programs dedicated to breast cancer care. These centers often provide multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses. They may also offer access to clinical trials, genetic counseling, and support services like survivorship programs and patient navigators.

**Breast Imaging and Diagnostics**

Accurate and timely breast imaging is crucial for early detection and diagnosis. Both Cone Health and Novant Health offer advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), ultrasound, and MRI. These technologies help to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and reduce the need for unnecessary biopsies.

**Patient Experience and Support**

Patient experience is a critical factor in choosing a hospital. Both Cone Health and Novant Health prioritize patient-centered care. They offer various support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and educational resources. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials can be a significant advantage for patients. Both Cone Health and Novant Health participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest treatment options and research advancements. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologists.

**Comparing the Options**

When comparing hospitals, consider factors such as:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A general indicator of overall quality.
* **Accreditations:** Look for accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.
* **Specialty Centers:** Assess the range of services offered by the breast cancer program.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider the potential impact on access to care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Evaluate the availability of virtual consultations and other telehealth services.
* **Patient Experience:** Research patient reviews and satisfaction surveys.
* **Proximity:** Consider the convenience of location and travel time.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. Residents near ZIP code 27409 have several excellent options, including Wesley Long Hospital and Forsyth Medical Center. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, patients can make informed decisions that align with their individual needs and preferences. Consulting with your primary care physician and seeking referrals from trusted sources are essential steps in the process. It is also important to directly contact each hospital to get the most up-to-date information on services, wait times, and insurance coverage.