27879, Simpson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27879, Simpson, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Tar Heel State: A Look at Hospitals Near 27879

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 27879 (Rocky Mount, North Carolina), providing a fact-rich overview to help patients navigate their options. We'll examine key factors like hospital ratings, specialized services, and access to care, including telehealth capabilities. Note: This information is current as of October 26, 2023, and subject to change. Always verify details with the hospitals directly.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment, several elements are paramount. These include the hospital's overall quality rating, the availability of specialized breast cancer centers, the expertise of the medical staff, and the accessibility of services like imaging and surgery. Proximity to home, while important, should be balanced with the quality of care offered.

**Hospital Quality: CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals, providing a general indicator of quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the sole determinant, a higher star rating can suggest a hospital that excels in delivering comprehensive care.

**Nearby Flagship Hospitals and Their Profiles**

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC):** Located approximately 40 miles east of Rocky Mount, Vidant Medical Center is a major regional referral center. It's a flagship hospital for the Vidant Health system. As of October 2023, Vidant Medical Center holds a CMS star rating of [Insert Current CMS Star Rating]. This rating reflects its performance across a range of quality measures. Vidant offers a comprehensive cancer center, potentially including specialized breast cancer services. ER wait times are a crucial factor; the most recent data indicates an average ER wait time of [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]. Telehealth capabilities are expanding, with Vidant providing [Insert Specific Telehealth Offerings, e.g., virtual consultations, follow-up appointments].

**Duke University Hospital (Durham, NC):** Approximately 80 miles west of Rocky Mount, Duke University Hospital is a nationally recognized institution. It consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States. Duke boasts a CMS star rating of [Insert Current CMS Star Rating], reflecting its commitment to quality. Duke Cancer Institute offers a dedicated breast cancer program. ER wait times at Duke typically average [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]. Duke is a leader in telehealth, offering extensive virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and access to specialists via video. They also have a robust second-opinion program.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill, NC):** Situated about 80 miles west of Rocky Mount, UNC Medical Center is another major academic medical center in the region. UNC has a CMS star rating of [Insert Current CMS Star Rating]. UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is a significant resource for cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. ER wait times are typically around [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]. UNC Health has a well-developed telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists across the state.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

**Nash UNC Health Care (Rocky Mount, NC):** Located directly within the 27879 ZIP code, Nash UNC Health Care is a local option. The hospital’s CMS star rating is [Insert Current CMS Star Rating]. Nash UNC Health Care likely offers basic breast cancer services, including screening and potentially some treatment options. ER wait times average [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]. Telehealth services are likely available, though details should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Centers and Services**

Beyond overall hospital ratings, consider the availability of specialized breast cancer centers. These centers often provide a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide coordinated care.

**Vidant Medical Center:** Vidant's cancer center likely offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Duke University Hospital:** The Duke Cancer Institute is a major center for breast cancer research and treatment. It offers advanced imaging techniques, cutting-edge surgical options, and a wide range of clinical trials. Duke's breast cancer program is known for its expertise in complex cases and its focus on personalized medicine.

**UNC Medical Center:** The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. UNC emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

**Nash UNC Health Care:** The breast cancer services offered at Nash UNC Health Care may be more limited than those at the larger academic centers. It is essential to inquire about the specific services available, including access to a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist.

**Telehealth and Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists. Hospitals in the region are expanding their telehealth offerings.

**Vidant Medical Center:** Vidant's telehealth program likely includes virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and potentially remote monitoring programs.

**Duke University Hospital:** Duke is a leader in telehealth, offering extensive virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and access to specialists via video.

**UNC Medical Center:** UNC Health has a well-developed telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists across the state.

**Nash UNC Health Care:** Telehealth services are likely available, though details should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times can significantly impact the patient experience, especially in urgent situations. The hospitals listed above have varying ER wait times.

**Vidant Medical Center:** [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]

**Duke University Hospital:** [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]

**UNC Medical Center:** [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]

**Nash UNC Health Care:** [Insert Current ER Wait Time Data]

**Important Considerations for Patients**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists at each hospital.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and counseling services.
* **Second Opinions:** Consider seeking a second opinion from a different hospital or specialist, especially if you have a complex diagnosis or treatment plan.
* **Clinical Trials:** Ask about the availability of clinical trials, which can provide access to innovative treatments.
* **Travel Considerations:** Factor in travel time and distance, especially if you need frequent appointments or treatments.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to gain insights into their experiences.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research, offering a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 27879. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and priorities when making your choice. Contact the hospitals directly to gather more detailed information and schedule consultations. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to make the best decision for your health.