28524, Davis, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28524, Davis, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Breast Cancer Care in Eastern North Carolina: A Look at Hospitals Near 28524**

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, and choosing the right hospital for treatment is paramount. For individuals residing near ZIP code 28524 (Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, NC), access to quality healthcare is crucial. This review examines the breast cancer care landscape, focusing on key hospitals in the region, their strengths, and areas for consideration.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Proximity is a significant factor, but it shouldn't be the only one. Patients need to consider factors like hospital reputation, the availability of specialized services, the expertise of the medical staff, and patient satisfaction. The information below is based on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) data, hospital websites, and other sources.

**The Key Players: Focusing on Jacksonville and Beyond**

The primary hospitals serving the 28524 area are located in Jacksonville, NC, and nearby cities. These facilities offer varying levels of care and specialized services.

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

Onslow Memorial Hospital is a community hospital serving the Jacksonville area. It’s important to note that as of November 2023, CMS data does not provide a star rating for Onslow Memorial Hospital. This rating is an indicator of overall hospital quality based on various metrics. Patients should inquire about specific breast cancer care services and outcomes directly with the hospital. They should also inquire about the hospital's accreditation status from organizations like the American College of Surgeons, which can be a positive indicator of care quality.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC)**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, while further afield, is a regional medical center that often serves patients from the Jacksonville area. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars as of November 2023. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a larger facility with a more extensive range of specialty services than some of the closer community hospitals.

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

New Hanover Regional Medical Center, now part of Novant Health, is another option, located approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville. New Hanover Regional Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars as of November 2023. This hospital has a reputation for its comprehensive cancer care programs. They have a dedicated cancer center and offer a wide array of services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation therapy. The hospital likely participates in clinical trials, which can provide patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Understanding CMS Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for comparing hospitals. However, it's essential to understand their limitations. The ratings are based on a set of standardized measures, and they don't capture every aspect of a hospital's performance. Patients should always supplement these ratings with their own research, including reading patient reviews and consulting with their primary care physician.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in an emergency. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to be aware of the average wait times for each hospital. Patients should check the hospital's website or a third-party website that tracks ER wait times for the most up-to-date information. This information can be useful for patients who need immediate care.

**Specialty Centers and Breast Cancer Care**

The presence of a dedicated cancer center is a strong indicator of a hospital's commitment to breast cancer care. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care. Patients should inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital. The presence of a breast cancer navigator or patient advocate can also be a significant benefit, helping patients navigate the complexities of treatment.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services at each hospital. Remote patient monitoring, which allows healthcare providers to monitor patients' health data remotely, can also be a valuable tool for managing breast cancer treatment and recovery.

**Specific Breast Cancer Services to Inquire About**

When researching hospitals, patients should ask about the following specific breast cancer services:

* **Screening and Diagnosis:** Availability of mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, and MRI.
* **Surgical Options:** Expertise in lumpectomy, mastectomy (including skin-sparing and nipple-sparing techniques), and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of external beam radiation therapy, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials for new treatments.
* **Support Services:** Availability of support groups, counseling, and survivorship programs.
* **Genetic Counseling:** Availability of genetic testing and counseling for patients with a family history of breast cancer.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial factor in choosing a hospital. Patients should read patient reviews, if available, and inquire about patient satisfaction scores. These scores can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the overall patient experience.

**Financial Considerations**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. Patients should inquire about the hospital's billing practices and insurance coverage. They should also ask about financial assistance programs, if needed.

**The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach**

Effective breast cancer care requires a multidisciplinary approach. This means that patients should have access to a team of specialists who work together to develop a personalized treatment plan. The team should include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

**Looking Ahead: Trends in Breast Cancer Care**

Breast cancer care is constantly evolving. New treatments and technologies are emerging, offering patients more options and improved outcomes. Patients should stay informed about the latest advances in breast cancer care and discuss these options with their healthcare providers.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should carefully consider all the factors discussed in this review, including the hospital's reputation, the availability of specialized services, the expertise of the medical staff, patient satisfaction, and financial considerations. By doing their research and asking the right questions, patients can make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best meets their individual needs. Patients should also consider consulting with their primary care physician, who can provide valuable guidance and referrals.