28350, Lakeview, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28350, Lakeview, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Fayetteville, NC Area: A Scorecard

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience, and choosing the right healthcare provider is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-based assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 28350 (Fayetteville, NC) focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care. We'll examine hospital quality, accessibility, specialized services, and technological integration to help you make an informed decision.

**Understanding the Landscape: Hospital Quality and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website offers a valuable, albeit imperfect, tool for evaluating hospital quality. CMS assigns star ratings based on a variety of measures, including patient experience, safety of care, and effectiveness of care. While these ratings shouldn't be the sole determinant, they provide a baseline for comparison.

In the immediate vicinity of ZIP code 28350, two major hospitals stand out: Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Womack Army Medical Center.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a large regional hospital, is a primary option for residents in the Fayetteville area. Its CMS star rating is a mixed bag. As of the latest data, the hospital’s overall rating is a 3-star rating. This rating reflects a complex assessment of various aspects of care.

**Womack Army Medical Center:**

Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC), located on Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), serves military personnel, their families, and retirees. WAMC is a large and complex medical facility. CMS star ratings are not directly applicable to military hospitals. However, WAMC is subject to rigorous standards set by the Department of Defense and the Joint Commission.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially when dealing with a potential cancer diagnosis or treatment side effects. Longer wait times can translate to increased stress and potentially delayed care.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER wait times are a key data point to consider. Data on average wait times can fluctuate. It is essential to check current wait times via the hospital's website or through third-party sources like Google Maps, which often provide real-time estimates.

Womack Army Medical Center's ER wait times are also a consideration for those eligible for care. Wait times can vary depending on the patient volume and the complexity of cases being treated.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Expertise**

The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers and specialized programs is crucial. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center. The center offers a range of services, including surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services. They also offer a breast health program.

Womack Army Medical Center has a cancer center that serves military personnel and their families. The center provides comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer treatment.

**Surgical Oncology and Breast Cancer Surgery**

Surgical expertise is paramount in breast cancer care. The availability of experienced breast surgeons, the use of advanced surgical techniques, and the availability of reconstructive surgery options are essential factors.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a team of surgical oncologists who specialize in breast cancer surgery. They offer various surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and sentinel lymph node biopsy. They also provide reconstructive surgery options.

Womack Army Medical Center offers breast cancer surgery as part of its comprehensive cancer care program. Surgeons at WAMC perform various surgical procedures, including lumpectomy and mastectomy.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy Services**

Medical oncologists play a crucial role in developing and administering chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. The availability of advanced chemotherapy regimens, access to clinical trials, and supportive care services are all important considerations.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a team of medical oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other systemic therapies. They offer a range of chemotherapy regimens and access to clinical trials. They also provide supportive care services, such as pain management and nutritional support.

Womack Army Medical Center provides medical oncology services, including chemotherapy and other systemic therapies.

**Radiation Oncology: Precision and Technology**

Radiation therapy is often a critical component of breast cancer treatment. The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as 3D conformal radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), can improve treatment outcomes and minimize side effects.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers radiation oncology services. They have advanced radiation therapy equipment and experienced radiation oncologists.

Womack Army Medical Center also provides radiation oncology services.

**Diagnostic Imaging and Early Detection**

Access to state-of-the-art imaging technology is essential for early detection and accurate diagnosis. This includes mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers comprehensive diagnostic imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. They have advanced imaging equipment and experienced radiologists.

Womack Army Medical Center provides diagnostic imaging services, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care: Expanding Access**

Telehealth and virtual care options can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. They provide virtual appointments for certain services.

Womack Army Medical Center also offers telehealth services.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Patient experience and the availability of support services are critical for overall well-being during breast cancer treatment. This includes access to patient navigators, support groups, counseling, and other resources.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers patient navigators and support services to assist patients throughout their treatment journey.

Womack Army Medical Center provides support services to its patients.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in breast cancer care.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center participates in clinical trials.

Womack Army Medical Center may offer clinical trials.

**Accessibility and Insurance Coverage**

Accessibility, including ease of scheduling appointments, transportation options, and insurance coverage, is crucial.

Both Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and Womack Army Medical Center accept a wide range of insurance plans.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. The information presented here provides a starting point for evaluating the options near ZIP code 28350. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making your decision. It is highly recommended to consult with your primary care physician or a specialist for personalized guidance. Remember to ask specific questions about the hospital's breast cancer program, the experience of the medical team, and the availability of support services.