28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Care Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28528)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, and choosing the right medical team is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28528), assessing their capabilities in breast cancer care, considering factors like accreditation, specialized services, and patient outcomes. This information is intended to assist individuals in making informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Jacksonville, NC, presents a landscape of healthcare options, with the primary focus being on the regional medical centers and their associated networks. While specialized breast cancer centers might not be directly within the ZIP code, access to comprehensive care is available through strategic partnerships and referral networks. Distance, therefore, becomes a crucial factor in accessing the best possible care.

**The Cornerstone: Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**

The Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL) serves a significant population within the 28528 ZIP code, primarily active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. While not rated by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) due to its military affiliation, NMCCL offers a wide range of medical services, including cancer care.

NMCCL’s oncology department provides diagnostic services, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsies. The hospital has a dedicated team of medical professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, who work collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also available on-site. NMCCL often partners with other facilities for specialized treatments or clinical trials.

**Regional Players: Accessing Advanced Care**

Beyond NMCCL, residents of the 28528 area often seek care at larger regional hospitals. These facilities typically offer more specialized services and access to a wider range of medical expertise. Driving distance and travel time become key considerations.

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

Located approximately an hour and a half south of Jacksonville, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, NC, is a major regional healthcare provider. NHRMC has earned a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience.

NHRMC boasts a comprehensive cancer center, the Zimmer Cancer Institute, which offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment. The institute provides advanced imaging technologies, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and access to a team of breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons.

The Zimmer Cancer Institute also offers clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. They are accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, indicating adherence to rigorous standards of care. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing for consultations and follow-up appointments from a distance, which can be beneficial for patients in the Jacksonville area.

ER wait times at NHRMC can vary. According to recent data, the average wait time is around 30-45 minutes, but this can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the number of patients. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before visiting the ER.

**Vidant Health System: Expanding the Reach**

Vidant Health, a large health system with hospitals across eastern North Carolina, is another potential option. While not directly in the immediate vicinity, Vidant facilities, such as Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, NC (approximately a two-hour drive), offer comprehensive cancer care. Vidant Medical Center is a teaching hospital affiliated with the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University.

Vidant Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists. They offer advanced imaging, surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. They also participate in clinical trials. CMS has awarded Vidant Medical Center a 2-star rating.

Vidant Health is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This can be a valuable resource for patients in the Jacksonville area, reducing the need for frequent travel. ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can fluctuate, but generally average around 45 minutes to an hour.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Specialized Clinics**

In addition to the major hospitals, residents of the 28528 area may have access to smaller hospitals or specialized clinics. These facilities may offer specific services, such as diagnostic imaging or chemotherapy, in collaboration with larger cancer centers.

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

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located within Jacksonville, is a community hospital that provides a range of medical services. While it may not have a dedicated comprehensive cancer center like NHRMC or Vidant, it offers diagnostic imaging, including mammography, and may provide some chemotherapy services. Patients often receive referrals to larger cancer centers for more specialized treatments. The hospital's CMS star rating is not available.

**The Importance of Accreditation and Specialized Centers**

When evaluating breast cancer care, accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer is a crucial indicator of quality. Accreditation signifies that a hospital meets rigorous standards for cancer care, including multidisciplinary teams, access to advanced technologies, and patient support services.

Specialized breast cancer centers, whether freestanding or part of a larger hospital, often offer a more focused and comprehensive approach to care. These centers typically have dedicated teams of breast specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast health navigators.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups. This can reduce the need for frequent travel, improve access to specialists, and enhance patient convenience.

**Patient Outcomes and Support Services**

When assessing hospitals, it's important to consider patient outcomes, such as survival rates and recurrence rates. While this data can be complex and difficult to interpret, it provides valuable insights into the quality of care.

Support services are also essential for breast cancer patients. These services can include counseling, support groups, financial assistance, and survivorship programs. Hospitals with comprehensive support services can help patients navigate the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of cancer treatment.

**Making an Informed Decision: Key Takeaways**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Residents of the 28528 ZIP code have several options, ranging from the military facilities at NMCCL to regional hospitals like NHRMC and Vidant Medical Center.

* **Proximity vs. Specialization:** Consider the trade-off between proximity and access to specialized services. The convenience of a local hospital may be offset by the expertise and resources of a larger cancer center.
* **Accreditation and Ratings:** Look for hospitals accredited by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. CMS star ratings provide an indication of overall quality.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Ensure that the hospital offers a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Inquire about telehealth services to reduce the need for travel and improve access to care.
* **Support Services:** Assess the availability of support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Be aware of ER wait times, especially if you need urgent care.

By carefully considering these factors and consulting with your primary care physician and other healthcare professionals, you can make an informed decision about where to receive your breast cancer care. Remember to discuss your specific needs and preferences with your medical team to develop a personalized treatment plan that is right for you. Researching the hospitals, understanding their strengths, and assessing their services will empower you to make the best choice for your health and well-being.