28511, Atlantic, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28511)

Finding the right care for breast cancer is a deeply personal and critical journey. Proximity to quality healthcare is a significant factor, and for residents of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28511), the options, while geographically limited, warrant careful consideration. This review analyzes the available hospitals, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer treatment, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape: Limited but Focused**

The immediate vicinity of Jacksonville, NC, doesn't boast a vast array of hospitals. The primary options for comprehensive cancer care involve a degree of travel. This necessitates a focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that access to specialized services might require venturing further afield.

**Navigating the CMS Star System**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general indicator of quality. However, it's crucial to understand that these ratings are broad and don't always reflect the nuances of specific specialties like oncology. Still, they provide a starting point.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Players**

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, NC):**

Onslow Memorial Hospital is the local community hospital. It’s the closest option for residents of 28511. While it does not have a CMS star rating, it is a critical access hospital. This means it is a smaller facility, but it is still a vital resource for the community. The hospital offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and a cancer center. However, the scope of its oncology services, including breast cancer treatment, is more limited compared to larger regional facilities. For initial screenings and some aspects of treatment, it may be a convenient option.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington, NC):**

Located approximately 70 miles east of Jacksonville, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) is a more comprehensive option. NHRMC is a large regional medical center. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating. This rating indicates an average level of overall quality. NHRMC has a dedicated cancer center that offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including breast cancer. They provide surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. They offer advanced imaging capabilities and access to clinical trials. The drive time from Jacksonville is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

**UNC Health Southeastern (Lumberton, NC):**

Approximately 80 miles west of Jacksonville, UNC Health Southeastern is another option. It is a 3-star rated hospital. UNC Health Southeastern has a cancer center that provides a variety of services. The cancer center offers medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The drive time from Jacksonville is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

**Duke Health (Durham, NC):**

Duke Health, located approximately 150 miles northwest of Jacksonville, represents a flagship academic medical center. Duke University Hospital consistently receives high ratings. Duke University Hospital is a 5-star rated hospital. Duke Cancer Institute is a renowned center for cancer treatment and research. Duke offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. They provide advanced diagnostics, cutting-edge treatments, and access to clinical trials. The distance necessitates a longer travel time, but the specialized care and research opportunities may be appealing for some patients. The drive time from Jacksonville is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

**ER Wait Times: A Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly in a health crisis. While not directly indicative of cancer care quality, they reflect overall hospital efficiency. Unfortunately, publicly available, real-time ER wait time data can be inconsistent and may vary. Generally, smaller community hospitals tend to have shorter wait times than larger, more complex facilities. However, wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. Contacting the hospital directly or checking online resources like wait times, should be used to gain an idea of the wait times.

**Specialized Centers and Breast Cancer Programs**

The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers is a significant advantage. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support staff.

* **New Hanover Regional Medical Center:** Has a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team.
* **Duke Health:** Has a comprehensive breast cancer program within its Duke Cancer Institute.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. It allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. The availability of telehealth services varies between hospitals.

* **New Hanover Regional Medical Center:** Offers telehealth services, including oncology consultations.
* **Duke Health:** Has a robust telehealth program, including oncology services.

**Clinical Trials: Staying at the Forefront**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to the latest treatments and research advancements. Academic medical centers like Duke Health are more likely to offer a wider range of clinical trials. This is an important factor for patients with advanced or complex breast cancer.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical interventions. Comprehensive support services, including counseling, support groups, nutritional guidance, and rehabilitation, are essential. Inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.

**Making the Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex decision. It should be based on individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of the cancer.

* **Proximity:** Consider the travel distance and the impact on your daily life.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Assess the expertise of the medical team and the availability of specialized services.
* **Support Services:** Evaluate the availability of comprehensive support services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify insurance coverage and network participation.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials.
* **Consultations:** Schedule consultations with oncologists at different hospitals to discuss your case and get a sense of their approach.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Jacksonville, NC (28511), the options for breast cancer care require a degree of travel. While Onslow Memorial Hospital provides local access, more comprehensive care may necessitate a trip to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, UNC Health Southeastern, or, for those seeking the highest level of specialized care, Duke Health. Carefully weighing the factors discussed above, including CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth capabilities, and support services, will empower patients to make the most informed decision for their individual needs and ensure the best possible outcome in their fight against breast cancer.