27824, Engelhard, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27824, Engelhard, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Greenville, NC (ZIP Code 27824)

Finding the right breast cancer care can be a daunting task. This review provides a fact-based overview of hospitals near Greenville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27824), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. We'll analyze flagship hospitals, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is intended to assist in informed decision-making, but it is crucial to consult with your physician for personalized medical advice.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Hospitals in the Region**

The primary healthcare provider serving the Greenville area is **Vidant Medical Center**, the flagship hospital of Vidant Health. This facility is a Level I Trauma Center, offering a broad range of services, including oncology. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance that may be considered include facilities in Raleigh, such as **WakeMed Raleigh Campus** and **UNC Rex Hospital**. These facilities offer additional treatment options and specialized expertise.

**Vidant Medical Center: A Closer Look**

Vidant Medical Center is the most accessible hospital for residents of ZIP code 27824. It is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a full spectrum of medical services, including a dedicated cancer center.

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. As of the latest available data, Vidant Medical Center’s CMS star rating is subject to change and should be verified directly on the CMS website. It's important to note that these ratings are just one factor to consider, and they may not fully reflect the nuances of specialized care like breast cancer treatment.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times can be a significant concern, particularly during a health crisis. Information on current ER wait times for Vidant Medical Center is typically available on the hospital's website or through online platforms like Google. However, these times are dynamic and can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume.

**Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** Vidant Medical Center houses a cancer center, which is the cornerstone of breast cancer care in the region. The center typically offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to advanced diagnostic imaging is critical in breast cancer care. Vidant Medical Center offers a full suite of diagnostic tools, including mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), ultrasound, MRI, and PET scans. These technologies aid in early detection, accurate diagnosis, and staging of the disease.

**Treatment Options:** The cancer center at Vidant Medical Center provides a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. The specific treatment plan is tailored to the individual patient, considering the stage and type of breast cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.

**Surgical Oncology:** Surgical oncologists at Vidant Medical Center perform various breast cancer surgeries, including lumpectomies (breast-conserving surgery), mastectomies, and sentinel lymph node biopsies. They also collaborate with plastic surgeons for reconstructive procedures following mastectomy.

**Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy is a common treatment modality for breast cancer. Vidant Medical Center's radiation oncology department uses advanced techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), to deliver precise radiation doses while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

**Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists specialize in systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. They work closely with patients to develop and manage treatment plans, monitor side effects, and provide supportive care.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and remote monitoring. Vidant Medical Center offers telehealth services, which may include virtual appointments with oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare providers. The availability and scope of telehealth services may vary depending on the specific specialty and the patient's needs.

**WakeMed Raleigh Campus: Expanding Treatment Options**

Located in Raleigh, WakeMed Raleigh Campus is another major healthcare provider within a reasonable driving distance of Greenville. While a longer drive, this facility offers specialized services and may be a consideration for patients seeking particular treatment options or second opinions.

**CMS Star Ratings:** As with Vidant, the CMS star rating for WakeMed Raleigh Campus should be confirmed on the CMS website.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at WakeMed Raleigh Campus can be found on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** WakeMed Raleigh Campus features a comprehensive cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. This center provides a range of diagnostic and treatment services for breast cancer.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:** WakeMed Raleigh Campus offers advanced diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and PET scans.

**Treatment Options:** The cancer center at WakeMed Raleigh Campus provides a variety of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** WakeMed Raleigh Campus also offers telehealth services for certain appointments and consultations.

**UNC Rex Hospital: Another Regional Option**

UNC Rex Hospital, also located in Raleigh, is another hospital that may be considered for breast cancer treatment.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Check the CMS website for the most up-to-date star rating.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** Information on ER wait times is available on the hospital's website or online platforms.

**Breast Cancer Specialty Centers:** UNC Rex Hospital houses a cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:** The hospital provides access to advanced diagnostic imaging, including mammography, ultrasound, MRI, and PET scans.

**Treatment Options:** UNC Rex Hospital offers a range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** UNC Rex Hospital offers telehealth services for certain appointments and consultations.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for breast cancer treatment, several factors should be considered:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and ease of access are important, especially for frequent appointments and treatments.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Look for hospitals with experienced breast cancer specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Technology and Resources:** Access to advanced diagnostic imaging and treatment technologies is crucial.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A hospital with a multidisciplinary team of specialists who collaborate on treatment plans is beneficial.
* **Patient Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient satisfaction.
* **Second Opinions:** Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another specialist, especially if you have complex medical needs or concerns.

**Conclusion**

Residents of ZIP code 27824 have access to breast cancer care at Vidant Medical Center, with the option of seeking additional specialized care at hospitals in Raleigh, such as WakeMed Raleigh Campus and UNC Rex Hospital. Evaluating factors such as CMS star ratings (verify on the CMS website), ER wait times, specialty center capabilities, and telehealth options can help individuals make informed decisions about their breast cancer treatment. It's essential to consult with your physician to discuss your specific needs and develop a personalized treatment plan. This review provides a starting point for your research; however, the final decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare providers.