27889, Washington, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27889, Washington, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 27889

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Access to quality care, from screening to treatment and beyond, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near the 27889 ZIP code (Tarboro, North Carolina) to assess their capabilities in breast cancer care, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Regional Overview and Key Considerations**

The 27889 ZIP code is located in Edgecombe County, a predominantly rural area. This geographic context influences healthcare access, potentially requiring residents to travel for specialized services. Proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring counties becomes a critical factor. This review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in the potential need for specialized care not readily available locally.

**Hospital Profiles: Strengths and Weaknesses**

**Vidant Edgecombe Hospital (Tarboro, NC)**

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital, located directly within the 27889 ZIP code, serves as a primary healthcare provider for the community. While it may not possess the same level of specialized breast cancer resources as larger regional centers, it provides essential services. The hospital's focus is on providing comprehensive care to the local population. It is important to note that Vidant Edgecombe Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC)**

Approximately 45 minutes from Tarboro, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, is a flagship facility for the Vidant Health system. This hospital is a Level 1 Trauma Center and offers a broader spectrum of medical specialties, including comprehensive cancer care. Vidant Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

The hospital's Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. This includes medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. Breast cancer patients benefit from access to advanced imaging technologies, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The center offers surgical options such as lumpectomy and mastectomy, along with reconstructive surgery.

Vidant Medical Center also participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation is a significant advantage for patients.

ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can vary. According to recent data, the average wait time is about 45 minutes. However, it is crucial to understand that wait times can fluctuate depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions.

Vidant Health has been expanding its telehealth capabilities. This includes virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Duke Health (Durham, NC)**

While further afield (approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes), Duke Health in Durham, North Carolina, is a nationally recognized healthcare system renowned for its cancer care. Duke University Hospital, the flagship facility, consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States. Duke University Hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

The Duke Cancer Institute offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including advanced diagnostics, surgical interventions, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Duke's breast cancer program is known for its expertise in complex cases and its commitment to research.

Duke's breast cancer specialists are at the forefront of clinical trials, providing patients with access to novel therapies and treatment approaches. The hospital's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive coordinated care from a team of experts.

ER wait times at Duke University Hospital can vary, but generally, the hospital strives to provide efficient care. Patients should be aware that wait times can be influenced by the volume of patients and the complexity of their conditions.

Duke Health has invested heavily in telehealth, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. Telehealth can enhance access to care for patients living in rural areas and can facilitate follow-up appointments and consultations.

**UNC Health (Chapel Hill, NC)**

Located approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Tarboro, UNC Health in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is another highly regarded healthcare system with a strong focus on cancer care. UNC Medical Center, the flagship hospital, provides a wide range of services, including comprehensive breast cancer treatment. UNC Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. The center provides advanced diagnostics, surgical options, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and supportive care services. UNC Health is known for its expertise in treating complex breast cancer cases and its commitment to research.

UNC Health is actively involved in clinical trials, providing patients with access to innovative treatments. The hospital's multidisciplinary team of specialists ensures that patients receive coordinated and personalized care.

ER wait times at UNC Medical Center can vary, but the hospital strives to provide timely care. Patients should be aware that wait times can be influenced by the volume of patients and the complexity of their conditions.

UNC Health has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. Telehealth can improve access to care for patients in rural areas and facilitate follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Comparing Hospitals: A Summary**

For residents of the 27889 ZIP code, Vidant Medical Center offers a more accessible option for comprehensive breast cancer care, given its proximity. The hospital's Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center provides a range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, and participation in clinical trials. While Vidant Edgecombe Hospital offers primary care, it lacks the specialized resources of the larger regional centers.

Duke Health and UNC Health, while further away, are nationally recognized for their cancer care expertise. They offer access to advanced treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach. However, the travel distance may be a barrier for some patients.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for patients in rural areas. Vidant Health, Duke Health, and UNC Health are all investing in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health options. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent travel, improve access to specialists, and facilitate follow-up care.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration**

ER wait times are a factor to consider when choosing a hospital. While all hospitals strive to provide timely care, wait times can vary. Patients should be aware that wait times can be influenced by the volume of patients and the complexity of their conditions. It is advisable to check the most recent data on ER wait times for each hospital before seeking care.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. For residents of the 27889 ZIP code, Vidant Medical Center offers a convenient option for comprehensive care. However, patients should also consider the expertise and resources available at Duke Health and UNC Health, even if it requires more travel. Telehealth can play a vital role in bridging the distance and improving access to care.

When making a decision, patients should consider their individual needs, the stage and type of their cancer, and their preferences for care. Consulting with a primary care physician and seeking referrals to specialists are essential steps in the process. It is also important to research the specific services offered by each hospital, including the availability of specialized centers, clinical trials, and support services.