27893, Wilson, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27893, Wilson, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Eastern North Carolina: A Review for ZIP Code 27893

Finding the best breast cancer care near ZIP code 27893 (Tarboro, NC) requires a nuanced understanding of local healthcare options. This review examines the key players, focusing on factors critical to patient outcomes, including hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility.

**The Landscape of Care:**

The immediate vicinity of Tarboro offers a limited range of comprehensive cancer centers. Residents often need to travel to larger regional hubs to access the full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment modalities. Proximity to Greenville, NC, and its surrounding areas, becomes crucial.

**Vidant Medical Center, Greenville (Approximately 30 miles from 27893):**

Vidant Medical Center, the flagship hospital of Vidant Health, is the primary referral center for eastern North Carolina. It’s a Level 1 Trauma Center and a major provider of cancer services. As of the latest available data, Vidant Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and readmission rates. It's important to note that CMS star ratings are just one metric and should be considered alongside other factors.

Vidant Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated cancer center. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient care. They offer advanced imaging, including mammography, breast ultrasound, and MRI, crucial for early detection and staging.

**Specialized Services at Vidant:**

Vidant's breast cancer program provides a range of treatment options, including surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The hospital also participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments. The hospital offers a robust survivorship program, addressing the physical and emotional needs of patients after treatment.

**Accessibility and Wait Times:**

Accessibility is a key consideration. While Vidant Medical Center is a regional hub, travel can be a barrier for residents of Tarboro and surrounding areas. Emergency room wait times are a critical factor. The most recent data indicates that ER wait times at Vidant can fluctuate. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. Telehealth services are increasingly important for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support. Vidant Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing patients with virtual access to physicians and other healthcare professionals. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual appointments for oncology patients, are not publicly available but are likely increasing.

**Other Considerations for Vidant:**

* **Physician Expertise:** Researching the specific expertise and experience of the breast cancer specialists at Vidant is crucial. Look for board certifications, specializations, and patient reviews.
* **Patient Navigation:** A dedicated patient navigator can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Inquire about the availability of patient navigation services at Vidant.
* **Support Services:** Cancer treatment often requires extensive support services, including counseling, nutritional guidance, and financial assistance. Assess the availability of these resources at Vidant.

**Other Hospitals and Clinics (Limited Options):**

The immediate vicinity of Tarboro offers fewer specialized breast cancer services. Smaller hospitals and clinics may provide basic diagnostic services, such as mammograms, but patients typically need to be referred to larger centers for comprehensive treatment.

* **Edgecombe Health (Tarboro):** Edgecombe Health might offer basic diagnostic services. However, it is unlikely to have a full-fledged cancer center. Patients needing advanced treatment will likely be referred to Vidant.
* **Other Local Clinics:** Local clinics may offer screening mammograms, but not necessarily the full range of diagnostic and treatment options.

**Important Considerations When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC). Accreditation signifies that the hospital meets specific standards for cancer care.
* **Experience:** Consider the experience of the surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. How many breast cancer cases do they handle annually?
* **Technology:** Does the hospital have the latest imaging and treatment technologies?
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Research patient reviews and testimonials. What are other patients saying about their experiences?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and emotional support. The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Look for hospitals that offer a robust telehealth program. Some hospitals are also using remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices, to track patients' vital signs and symptoms.

**Clinical Trials:**

Participating in a clinical trial can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Ask your doctor if there are any clinical trials for which you might be eligible.

**Financial Considerations:**

Cancer treatment can be expensive. Inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs and explore options for covering the costs of treatment.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of ZIP code 27893, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville is the primary option for comprehensive breast cancer care. While the hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, it's essential to evaluate it based on the factors discussed above. Thorough research, including evaluating physician expertise, assessing patient satisfaction, and understanding the available support services, is crucial. While other local options are limited, they may provide basic screening. The best approach is to consult with your primary care physician and a breast cancer specialist to develop a personalized care plan. Remember to consider the accessibility of the hospital, the availability of telehealth options, and the potential for clinical trial participation. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents of Tarboro can make informed decisions about their breast cancer care.