27935, Eure, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27935, Eure, North Carolina is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27935)**

Finding the right breast cancer care is a deeply personal journey. Proximity to quality medical facilities is a critical factor, particularly when facing a diagnosis. This review examines hospitals near Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP code 27935), focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer treatment, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Elizabeth City, a town in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, is served by a network of hospitals and healthcare providers. The closest major medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance, offering a range of services for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. However, the availability and quality of care can vary significantly.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City is the most immediate option for residents of the 27935 ZIP code. As a community hospital, it provides a range of services, including cancer care. While it may not possess the same level of specialization as larger, regional facilities, it offers the convenience of local access.

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating, which is a measure of overall hospital quality based on factors like patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience. This rating system, maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a useful tool for comparing hospitals.

Emergency room wait times at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center fluctuate. Local data suggests average wait times can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. This is a crucial consideration, as prompt access to care is vital in any medical emergency.

The hospital's breast cancer services include diagnostic imaging, such as mammograms and ultrasounds. It offers access to medical oncologists and surgeons who can provide treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs. While it may not have a dedicated breast cancer center, it coordinates care through its oncology department.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for healthcare access. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers telehealth options, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support services.

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

Located in Greenville, NC, Vidant Medical Center is the closest regional referral center to Elizabeth City. It is approximately a 90-minute drive. As a large, tertiary care facility, Vidant offers a broader range of specialized services, including comprehensive cancer care.

Vidant Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various quality metrics. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it is important to consider the specific areas where the hospital excels and where it may need improvement.

ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can be longer than at smaller hospitals. Data suggests average wait times can be between one and two hours, but this can vary. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours.

Vidant Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care, bringing together medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The center provides advanced diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging techniques, and a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions.

Vidant Medical Center has a robust telehealth program. It offers a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education. Telehealth is particularly valuable for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Duke Health (Durham, NC)**

Duke Health, located in Durham, NC, is a nationally recognized academic medical center. It is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Elizabeth City. Duke is renowned for its advanced cancer care and research programs.

Duke University Hospital, the flagship hospital of Duke Health, has a CMS star rating of 5 stars, the highest possible rating. This rating reflects Duke's commitment to providing high-quality care and its strong performance across a wide range of quality measures.

ER wait times at Duke University Hospital can be variable. The hospital often has a high patient volume. Average wait times can range from one to two hours, but this can fluctuate.

Duke Cancer Institute is a leading center for breast cancer treatment and research. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The institute's multidisciplinary teams of specialists work collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans.

Duke Health has a well-developed telehealth program. It offers telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and other virtual services. Duke's telehealth capabilities are designed to improve access to care and provide patients with convenient options for managing their health.

**University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill, NC)**

The University of North Carolina (UNC) Medical Center in Chapel Hill, NC, is another major academic medical center, approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Elizabeth City. UNC Hospitals is known for its comprehensive cancer care programs and research.

UNC Hospitals has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. This rating indicates a high level of quality care and patient safety.

ER wait times at UNC Hospitals can vary. The hospital serves a large population. Average wait times can range from one to two hours, but this can fluctuate.

The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is a leading center for breast cancer treatment and research. It offers a wide range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. The center's multidisciplinary teams of specialists provide personalized care.

UNC Health has a comprehensive telehealth program. It offers telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and other virtual services. Telehealth is used to improve access to care and support patients throughout their treatment journey.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the specific hospitals, several other factors are important when choosing a breast cancer treatment center.

* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals and cancer centers accredited by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. Accreditation signifies that the center meets rigorous standards for quality and patient care.
* **Specialized Centers:** Dedicated breast cancer centers often offer a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to care. These centers typically have multidisciplinary teams, access to advanced technologies, and a focus on patient support services.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments. Research the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the hospital's culture and the quality of care provided.
* **Support Services:** Consider the availability of support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right breast cancer treatment center is a significant decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital. While Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers local convenience, Vidant Medical Center, Duke Health, and UNC Hospitals provide more specialized care and access to advanced treatments. Careful research, consultation with healthcare providers, and a thorough evaluation of all available options are essential to making the best choice.