27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Northeastern North Carolina: A Scorecard for 27948

Finding the right hospital for breast cancer care is a critical decision. For residents near the 27948 ZIP code, which encompasses Elizabeth City, North Carolina, and surrounding areas, the options are relatively limited but still warrant careful consideration. This review assesses the available facilities, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, providing a fact-rich overview to inform patient choices.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Local Focus**

The immediate vicinity of 27948 doesn't boast a plethora of major medical centers. Residents typically rely on a few key hospitals for their healthcare needs. These facilities, while not necessarily nationally renowned, are the primary points of access for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. This review will concentrate on the most relevant options within a reasonable driving distance.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (Elizabeth City, NC): The Local Hub**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center is the most immediate healthcare provider for those in the 27948 area. It serves as a primary point of entry for medical services, including breast cancer care. While not a designated cancer center, Sentara Albemarle offers diagnostic services and treatment options.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Albemarle Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. A 3-star rating indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationally.
* **ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration for any urgent health concern. Data indicates that ER wait times at Sentara Albemarle can fluctuate. It's advisable to check real-time wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly before visiting the ER.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Sentara Albemarle provides breast imaging services, including mammography and ultrasound. They also offer surgical options for breast cancer treatment. Patients may need to be referred to specialists for more complex cases.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Sentara Healthcare, the parent organization, has expanded telehealth services. Availability of telehealth appointments for breast cancer-related consultations and follow-up care should be verified directly with the hospital.

**Vidant Chowan Hospital (Edenton, NC): A Regional Partner**

Located in Edenton, Vidant Chowan Hospital is another potential option for residents in the 27948 area. Though further away, it can offer additional resources and specialized care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Chowan Hospital also holds a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a similar level of performance to Sentara Albemarle.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Vidant Chowan Hospital, like Sentara Albemarle, can vary. Checking real-time data is recommended.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** Vidant Chowan offers breast imaging and diagnostic services. Treatment options may be more limited compared to larger facilities, with referrals for advanced treatments often necessary.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Vidant Health, the parent organization, has been actively developing its telehealth platform. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments with oncologists or breast cancer specialists.

**Beyond the Immediate Vicinity: Expanding the Search**

While Sentara Albemarle and Vidant Chowan are the closest options, patients may consider facilities further afield, especially for specialized care. These options, while requiring longer travel times, may offer access to more advanced treatments and a wider range of specialists.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Regional Referral Center**

Located in Greenville, approximately an hour's drive from Elizabeth City, Vidant Medical Center is the flagship hospital for Vidant Health. It serves as a regional referral center, offering a broader spectrum of medical services, including comprehensive cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can be longer than at smaller hospitals due to its higher patient volume. Real-time data is essential.
* **Cancer Services:** Vidant Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center that provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. This includes medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. They offer advanced imaging techniques, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options, including breast reconstruction.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Vidant Medical Center has invested heavily in telehealth. They offer a wide range of telehealth appointments, including consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and support group sessions.

**Duke Health (Durham, NC): A Premier Cancer Center (Approximately 2.5-hour drive)**

Duke Health, located in Durham, is a nationally recognized academic medical center. Duke Cancer Institute is a leading center for cancer care, offering cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Duke University Hospital, the flagship hospital of Duke Health, has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of quality compared to the local hospitals.
* **ER Wait Times:** Duke's ER wait times can be significant. Patients should be prepared for potential delays.
* **Cancer Services:** Duke Cancer Institute provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. They are at the forefront of cancer research and treatment.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Duke Health offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring programs.

**UNC Health (Chapel Hill, NC): Another Highly Ranked Option (Approximately 2.5-hour drive)**

UNC Medical Center, part of UNC Health, is another highly regarded academic medical center located in Chapel Hill. UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, offering a wide range of breast cancer services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UNC Medical Center has a 4-star CMS rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UNC Medical Center can vary.
* **Cancer Services:** UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center provides comprehensive breast cancer care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** UNC Health offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Key Considerations for Patients**

When choosing a hospital for breast cancer care, several factors should be weighed:

* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital, travel time, and ease of access, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Assess the availability of specialized breast cancer surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals.
* **Treatment Options:** Evaluate the range of treatment options offered, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about support services, such as patient navigators, support groups, and psychological counseling.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Experience:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

**Telehealth: A Growing Role**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in cancer care. It offers several benefits, including:

* **Convenience:** Patients can attend appointments from the comfort of their homes, reducing travel time and costs.
* **Access to Specialists:** Telehealth can connect patients with specialists who may not be available locally.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Telehealth enables remote monitoring of patients' health, allowing for early detection of complications.
* **Support and Education:** Telehealth platforms can provide access to support groups, educational resources, and counseling services.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

For residents near 27948, the choice of a hospital for breast cancer care involves careful consideration. While local options like Sentara Albemarle and Vidant Chowan offer convenient access to basic services, patients may need to travel to larger regional centers like Vidant Medical Center, Duke Health, or UNC Health for more specialized care and advanced treatment options. Thorough research, including examining CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities, is crucial for making an informed decision. Patients should also discuss their individual needs and preferences with their primary care physicians and oncologists to determine the best course of action. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, regardless of the chosen facility.