28332, Dublin, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28332, Dublin, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near ZIP Code 28332**

Finding the right breast cancer care is a critical journey. This review provides a fact-based overview of hospitals near ZIP code 28332 (Fayetteville, North Carolina), focusing on key metrics to help patients make informed decisions. The information is current as of October 26, 2023, and relies on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and third-party healthcare analytics platforms.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Fayetteville, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas offer a range of healthcare options. The quality of breast cancer care can vary significantly between institutions. This review examines factors like hospital ratings, specialized services, wait times, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive picture.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

Two hospitals dominate the healthcare landscape near 28332: Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Womack Army Medical Center.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** This is a major regional hospital. CMS data assigns Cape Fear Valley Medical Center a 3-star rating. This rating reflects overall hospital performance based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. It is essential to note that these ratings are a snapshot in time and should be considered alongside other factors.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** As a military hospital, Womack Army Medical Center serves a specific population. CMS does not provide star ratings for military hospitals. Information on Womack Army Medical Center's performance is available through the Department of Defense and the hospital's own reporting.

**Specialized Breast Cancer Centers and Services**

The availability of specialized breast cancer centers is a key consideration. These centers often offer multidisciplinary teams, advanced imaging, and access to clinical trials.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** Cape Fear Valley offers a comprehensive cancer center, which includes breast cancer services. Patients should inquire about specific programs and services, including the availability of a dedicated breast cancer specialist, surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** As a military medical facility, Womack Army Medical Center provides breast cancer services to its eligible beneficiaries. Patients should confirm the availability of specialized breast cancer care within the center.

**Imaging and Diagnostics**

Early detection is critical in breast cancer treatment. Access to advanced imaging technologies is a key factor.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** The hospital has radiology services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. The availability of 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) is a key question to ask.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Womack Army Medical Center also offers imaging services. Confirm the availability of advanced imaging modalities, such as tomosynthesis, and the turnaround time for results.

**Surgical Options and Expertise**

The surgical options and the expertise of the surgical team are crucial.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** The hospital has surgical oncology services, including breast surgeons. Inquire about the types of breast surgeries offered, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive options.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Womack Army Medical Center also has surgical services. Confirm the availability of specialized breast surgeons and the types of surgical procedures performed.

**Radiation Therapy**

Radiation therapy is a common component of breast cancer treatment.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** The hospital has radiation oncology services. Inquire about the types of radiation therapy available, such as external beam radiation and brachytherapy.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Womack Army Medical Center provides radiation therapy services. Confirm the availability of advanced radiation techniques.

**Chemotherapy and Medical Oncology**

Chemotherapy is often a part of breast cancer treatment.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** The hospital has medical oncology services, including chemotherapy administration. Inquire about the availability of chemotherapy regimens and supportive care services.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Womack Army Medical Center offers medical oncology services, including chemotherapy.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a critical factor, especially for patients experiencing treatment-related side effects or complications.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** Data on ER wait times is available through platforms like ProPublica's Hospital Compare or the hospital's website. Check for the average wait time to see a provider and the time to receive pain medication.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** ER wait times for military hospitals may be reported through the Department of Defense or the hospital's website.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, offering convenient access to care.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients, including virtual consultations with oncologists, nurses, and other specialists.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Confirm the availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are important indicators of quality care.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** Review patient satisfaction scores from sources like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. Look for information on communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and pain management.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Patient satisfaction data for military hospitals may be available through the Department of Defense or internal surveys.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to innovative treatments.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials for breast cancer.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** Confirm the availability of clinical trials for breast cancer patients.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations**

Understanding insurance coverage and financial assistance options is crucial.

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:** Contact the hospital's billing department to understand accepted insurance plans and financial assistance programs.

* **Womack Army Medical Center:** As a military hospital, Womack Army Medical Center primarily serves eligible beneficiaries.

**Additional Hospitals and Outpatient Facilities**

While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Womack Army Medical Center are the primary hospitals, other facilities may provide outpatient services or specialty care.

* **Other Hospitals:** Research any other hospitals in the area, such as smaller community hospitals or those specializing in specific areas of medicine.

* **Outpatient Facilities:** Look for outpatient cancer centers or clinics that offer specialized breast cancer services.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Consider the following steps:

1. **Research:** Use the information provided in this review and other sources to gather information about hospitals and their services.
2. **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with your primary care physician. They can provide referrals and guidance.
3. **Contact Hospitals Directly:** Contact the hospitals you are considering to ask specific questions about their services, programs, and staff.
4. **Visit the Facilities:** If possible, visit the hospitals to assess the environment and meet with the staff.
5. **Consider Your Priorities:** Identify your priorities, such as access to specialized services, convenience, and patient experience.
6. **Make an Informed Choice:** Based on your research and priorities, choose the hospital that best meets your needs.

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Hospital ratings and data can change, so verify information with the hospitals directly.