27972, Salvo, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 27972, Salvo, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Manteo, NC (ZIP Code 27972)

Finding the right breast cancer care can be daunting. This review provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape for those residing near Manteo, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27972), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. While this review offers valuable information, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations:**

The Outer Banks region, including Manteo, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. Due to its relative isolation, residents often face longer travel times to reach comprehensive medical facilities. Therefore, understanding the strengths and limitations of nearby hospitals is crucial. This review will consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those offering breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support services.

**The "Big Players": Hospitals to Consider**

The closest hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer services, are not immediately adjacent to Manteo. Residents often travel to the mainland for advanced care.

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

Approximately a one-hour drive from Manteo, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center is a vital healthcare provider for the region. As part of the larger Sentara Healthcare system, it offers a range of services, including oncology. While specific data on breast cancer outcomes at this location is not readily available in the public domain, it's important to note that Sentara Healthcare is a large and established system with a reputation for quality care. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital performance based on various quality metrics, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. The ER wait times at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center can fluctuate, so it's wise to check real-time data through online resources or call the hospital directly. They do offer telehealth services, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care.

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

Located approximately a two-hour drive from Manteo, Vidant Medical Center is a regional referral center and a major player in the eastern North Carolina healthcare landscape. Vidant offers a comprehensive cancer center, including specialized breast cancer services. Vidant Medical Center is a teaching hospital affiliated with the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. This affiliation often translates to access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. The hospital is also a Level I Trauma Center, indicating its ability to handle complex medical cases. Vidant Medical Center holds a 3-star rating from CMS. Specific breast cancer outcomes data, such as five-year survival rates, may be available through the hospital's cancer center or through state-level reporting agencies. ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can vary, especially during peak hours, so checking online resources is recommended. Vidant offers extensive telehealth capabilities, including virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists, which is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas.

**Specialized Cancer Centers and Programs:**

While the general hospitals mentioned above offer breast cancer services, patients may benefit from seeking care at specialized cancer centers.

**The Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center (Greenville, NC):**

Located within Vidant Medical Center, the Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center is a dedicated cancer treatment facility. It provides a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and support staff to create individualized treatment plans. The center offers advanced technologies like radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and often participates in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative treatments.

**Factors Impacting Breast Cancer Care:**

Several factors influence the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the region.

**Screening and Early Detection:**

Early detection is critical for successful breast cancer treatment. Access to regular mammograms and other screening services is essential. Residents of Manteo can access mammography services at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center and potentially at smaller clinics or mobile mammography units that may visit the area.

**Surgical Oncology:**

Breast cancer surgery is a core component of treatment for many patients. The availability of skilled breast surgeons and the types of surgical procedures offered (e.g., lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery) are crucial considerations.

**Medical Oncology:**

Medical oncologists specialize in chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapies. The availability of these specialists and the range of treatment options offered at a particular hospital or cancer center are important factors.

**Radiation Oncology:**

Radiation therapy is often used to treat breast cancer. The availability of advanced radiation therapy technologies and experienced radiation oncologists is essential.

**Support Services:**

Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Access to support services, such as counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation programs, is vital for patient well-being.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide access to specialists, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients' conditions.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility:**

ER wait times can significantly impact patient experience. Longer wait times can be stressful and delay treatment. Accessibility, including travel distance and transportation options, is another critical factor, especially for residents of Manteo.

**CMS Star Ratings and Hospital Quality:**

The CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. While these ratings are a useful starting point, they should not be the sole basis for choosing a hospital. Consider other factors, such as specialized services, physician expertise, and patient reviews.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:**

Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at a particular hospital or cancer center. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews, but it is important to approach these reviews with a critical eye, considering the possibility of bias.

**Additional Considerations:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Physician Credentials and Experience:** Research the qualifications and experience of the oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists you may be seeing.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals and cancer centers that are accredited by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.
* **Clinical Trials:** Inquire about the availability of clinical trials, which can offer access to innovative treatments.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near Manteo, NC (ZIP Code 27972), accessing comprehensive breast cancer care often involves traveling to hospitals in Elizabeth City or Greenville. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center and Vidant Medical Center offer essential services, while the Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center provides specialized cancer care. Thorough research, including considering the factors outlined above, is crucial for making informed decisions about breast cancer treatment. Remember to consult with your physician to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.