27919, Belvidere, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27919)

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal and critical decision. This review analyzes the healthcare landscape near Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27919), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility to help you make an informed choice. We will examine flagship hospitals, their performance metrics, and the availability of crucial resources for comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The immediate vicinity of Elizabeth City, NC, presents a healthcare environment that, while offering access to essential services, may require patients to consider options further afield for specialized breast cancer care. The closest major medical centers with comprehensive cancer programs are located in larger cities like Norfolk, Virginia, and Greenville, North Carolina. These facilities often boast advanced technology, experienced specialists, and participation in clinical trials, which can significantly impact treatment outcomes.

**Local Hospital Overview: Sentara Albemarle Medical Center**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City is a vital healthcare provider for the local community. While it serves as a primary care and emergency facility, its breast cancer services are primarily focused on screening and basic diagnostic procedures. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center may offer mammography, potentially including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and breast ultrasounds. However, for complex cases requiring surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or advanced imaging, patients are typically referred to larger facilities with specialized cancer centers.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center – Key Metrics:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. As of the latest available data, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center has a CMS star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across several categories, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. It is essential to check the CMS website for the most up-to-date rating, as these can change.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially during a potential health crisis. Data on ER wait times at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center is available on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. Shorter wait times generally indicate more efficient emergency care. However, it's important to remember that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Access to Specialized Breast Cancer Centers: The Regional Perspective**

For comprehensive breast cancer treatment, patients near Elizabeth City often seek care at larger regional hospitals.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Norfolk, VA:**

Located approximately 90 miles north of Elizabeth City, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a major tertiary care center. It is a flagship hospital in the Sentara Healthcare system and likely offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. This may include a dedicated breast cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and reconstructive surgeons.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital – Key Metrics:**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital likely has a CMS star rating, which can be found on the CMS Hospital Compare website. The hospital's performance on measures related to cancer care, such as timely treatment and adherence to evidence-based guidelines, is crucial.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital likely provides a range of specialized services for breast cancer patients. This could include:

* **Advanced Imaging:** Access to advanced imaging technologies like MRI and PET scans for accurate diagnosis and staging.
* **Surgical Options:** A full spectrum of surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy:** On-site chemotherapy and radiation therapy departments with experienced staff.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials offering access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling.

**Vidant Medical Center, Greenville, NC:**

Approximately 100 miles southwest of Elizabeth City, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, NC, is another major healthcare provider. As an academic medical center, Vidant Medical Center often has a robust cancer program.

**Vidant Medical Center – Key Metrics:**

Vidant Medical Center has a CMS star rating. The hospital's performance on cancer-related metrics is important to assess.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Vidant Medical Center's breast cancer program likely offers a comprehensive range of services, including:

* **Advanced Diagnostics:** State-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic capabilities.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Experienced surgical oncologists specializing in breast cancer surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists providing chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy services with advanced techniques.
* **Reconstructive Surgery:** Reconstructive surgery options to restore appearance and function.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Genetic counseling services to assess risk and guide treatment decisions.
* **Support Services:** A full range of support services, including patient navigators, social workers, and support groups.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare, especially for patients in rural areas. Both Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Vidant Medical Center likely offer telehealth options for breast cancer patients. This may include virtual consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online support groups. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience.

**Telehealth Stats:**

The utilization of telehealth services has increased significantly in recent years. Check the hospital websites for specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual consultations conducted, the types of services offered remotely, and patient satisfaction rates.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

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

* **Expertise and Experience:** The experience and expertise of the medical team are paramount. Look for hospitals with board-certified specialists, a high volume of breast cancer cases, and a multidisciplinary approach to care.
* **Technology and Resources:** Access to advanced imaging technologies, surgical techniques, and treatment options is crucial.
* **Patient Support:** Comprehensive support services, including patient navigators, social workers, and support groups, can significantly improve the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences, such as the hospital's location, reputation, and patient satisfaction ratings.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a significant decision. Patients near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27919) should carefully evaluate the available options, considering the factors outlined above. While Sentara Albemarle Medical Center provides local healthcare services, patients may need to travel to larger regional hospitals like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital or Vidant Medical Center for comprehensive breast cancer care. Researching hospital websites, consulting with your primary care physician, and seeking second opinions can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to check the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information on hospital quality and performance.