27873, Saratoga, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27873, Saratoga, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Tarboro, NC (ZIP Code 27873)**

Finding the right breast cancer care can feel overwhelming. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals and healthcare options near Tarboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27873), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, specialized services, and accessibility. This information is intended to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

Tarboro, NC, is a rural community, and the immediate healthcare landscape reflects that. The primary hospital serving the area is **Edgecombe Health**, located in Tarboro itself. However, for specialized breast cancer care, residents often look to larger facilities in nearby cities like Greenville and Raleigh. The distance to these facilities is a crucial factor, impacting travel time and access to appointments.

**Edgecombe Health: A Local Perspective**

Edgecombe Health is a critical access hospital, meaning it serves a rural community with limited resources. While it provides essential services, its breast cancer care capabilities are more limited compared to larger, specialized centers. Edgecombe Health offers basic diagnostic imaging, including mammography, and may facilitate referrals to specialists. It is important to note that as a critical access hospital, it does not have CMS star ratings.

**Greenville: Vidant Health and the East Carolina University Connection**

Greenville, approximately 30 minutes from Tarboro, is a major healthcare hub, dominated by **Vidant Health**. Vidant Health is a network of hospitals and clinics, offering a more comprehensive approach to breast cancer care.

**Vidant Medical Center**, the flagship hospital within the Vidant Health system, is the primary referral point for breast cancer patients in the region. Vidant Medical Center is a teaching hospital affiliated with East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine, which often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

Vidant Medical Center has a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest rating, it reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality metrics, including patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates.

**Vidant Medical Center's Breast Cancer Services**

Vidant Medical Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care. This typically includes:

* **Diagnostic Imaging:** State-of-the-art mammography, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Breast surgeons specializing in various surgical procedures, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel lymph node biopsy.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists who administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation oncologists who provide external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.
* **Support Services:** Access to patient navigators, social workers, and support groups.

**ER Wait Times at Vidant Medical Center**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for any hospital. While specific wait times fluctuate, it is important to consider the potential for longer waits at a larger hospital like Vidant Medical Center, especially during peak hours. Patients can often find real-time wait time information on the hospital's website or through online tools.

**Telehealth at Vidant Health**

Vidant Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specific specialist and the type of appointment.

**Raleigh: Duke Health and UNC Health**

Raleigh, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Tarboro, offers access to two major academic medical centers: **Duke Health** and **UNC Health**. These institutions are renowned for their comprehensive cancer centers and advanced treatment options.

**Duke Health**

Duke Health, with its flagship hospital **Duke University Hospital**, is a highly regarded healthcare system. Duke University Hospital consistently receives high ratings from CMS. Duke University Hospital is a **5-star hospital** from CMS.

**Duke Cancer Institute**

Duke Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. This program provides access to:

* **Cutting-Edge Clinical Trials:** Duke is at the forefront of cancer research, offering patients access to innovative treatments.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Highly specialized breast cancer surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Advanced Technologies:** Access to advanced imaging, surgical techniques, and radiation therapy.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Genetic testing and counseling for patients at risk of hereditary breast cancer.

**ER Wait Times at Duke University Hospital**

Duke University Hospital, as a major academic medical center, can experience longer ER wait times. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative urgent care options if their condition is not life-threatening.

**Telehealth at Duke Health**

Duke Health offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telehealth is a valuable option for patients traveling from a distance.

**UNC Health**

**UNC Medical Center**, the flagship hospital of UNC Health, is another leading healthcare provider in Raleigh. UNC Medical Center is a **4-star hospital** from CMS.

**Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center**

UNC's Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including:

* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A team of specialists working together to develop individualized treatment plans.
* **Research and Innovation:** Access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Patient navigators, support groups, and resources for emotional and practical support.

**ER Wait Times at UNC Medical Center**

Similar to Duke, UNC Medical Center may experience longer ER wait times. Patients should consider the potential for delays and alternative options for non-emergency situations.

**Telehealth at UNC Health**

UNC Health has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the main hospitals, patients should also consider specialized breast cancer centers and programs. These centers often offer a more focused approach to care, with specialized expertise and resources.

**Breast Cancer Centers of Excellence**

Look for hospitals that are designated as Breast Cancer Centers of Excellence by organizations like the American College of Surgeons. These designations indicate that the hospital meets specific quality standards and provides comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Genetic Counseling and Testing**

Genetic counseling and testing are essential for patients with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. Ensure the hospitals you are considering offer these services.

**Rehabilitation and Survivorship Programs**

Breast cancer treatment can have long-term effects. Look for hospitals that offer rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy and lymphedema management, as well as survivorship programs to support patients after treatment.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Insurance coverage and financial assistance options are crucial considerations. Contact the hospitals and insurance providers to understand the costs of care and available financial resources.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction**

Research patient reviews and satisfaction surveys to gain insights into the experiences of other patients. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide patient ratings and reviews.

**Making Your Decision**

Choosing the right breast cancer care facility is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity and Travel Time:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of travel.
* **Quality Ratings:** CMS star ratings and other quality indicators.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of specialized expertise, advanced technologies, and support services.
* **Telehealth Options:** The availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:** The costs of care and available financial resources.
* **Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** The experiences of other patients.

**Conclusion**

Patients near Tarboro, NC (ZIP Code 27873), have several options for breast cancer care. While Edgecombe Health provides local services, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, and Duke Health and UNC Health in Raleigh offer more comprehensive care. Carefully evaluate the factors outlined in this review to make an informed decision that best meets your individual needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to specialists to help you navigate the complexities of breast cancer care.