28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Treatment Options Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28543)

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer treatment is a deeply personal and critical decision. For residents near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28543), several factors come into play, from proximity and insurance coverage to the specialized expertise and resources available. This review provides a fact-based overview of hospitals in the area, focusing on key metrics relevant to breast cancer care.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The primary hospital serving Jacksonville and surrounding areas is **Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**, located directly within the ZIP code. While NMCCL primarily serves active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families, it's a crucial access point for many residents. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance are also worth considering. These include those in New Bern, Wilmington, and Raleigh, offering a broader spectrum of care.

**Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL): A Military-Focused Approach**

NMCCL offers comprehensive healthcare services, including cancer care. While specific breast cancer statistics are often not publicly available in the same detail as civilian hospitals, NMCCL provides access to oncologists, surgeons, and support services. Access to care is determined by military affiliation and eligibility. Patients should inquire directly about breast cancer screening programs, diagnostic capabilities (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy services. NMCCL's performance metrics are primarily internal, so external ratings like CMS star ratings are not applicable. However, it's important to consider the potential for longer wait times, particularly for non-emergency appointments, due to the large patient population served. The hospital's ER wait times, while not specifically tracked for breast cancer patients, can be a general indicator of overall patient flow and resource allocation.

**Beyond Jacksonville: Exploring Regional Healthcare Hubs**

The closest major civilian hospitals are in New Bern, approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville. **CarolinaEast Medical Center** in New Bern is the most readily accessible option. Further afield, Wilmington and Raleigh offer a greater concentration of specialty centers and academic medical institutions.

**CarolinaEast Medical Center, New Bern: A Community Hospital Approach**

CarolinaEast Medical Center, a 350-bed hospital, offers a dedicated cancer center, which is a significant advantage. The hospital provides a range of breast cancer services, including screening mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The hospital’s CMS star rating, a key indicator of overall quality, is an important factor to consider. The most recent CMS star rating should be consulted on the CMS website to assess its performance relative to other hospitals. ER wait times are another key metric. Patients should check the latest publicly available data for CarolinaEast's ER wait times, which can be found on websites like ProPublica or the hospital's website. Shorter wait times generally indicate better efficiency and resource management. CarolinaEast also has telehealth capabilities, which can be valuable for follow-up appointments, consultations, and support services. The availability of telehealth options should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Wilmington: Accessing Specialized Cancer Centers**

Wilmington, about a 1.5-hour drive, is home to **New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC)**, now part of Novant Health. NHRMC has a strong reputation for cancer care, often attracting patients from a wider region.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), Wilmington: A Regional Leader**

NHRMC offers a comprehensive breast cancer program with a dedicated cancer center. This center likely provides a multidisciplinary approach, involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The hospital should have up-to-date information on its breast cancer screening programs, diagnostic capabilities (including advanced imaging), surgical options (including breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy), chemotherapy regimens, and radiation therapy techniques. NHRMC's CMS star rating should be reviewed on the CMS website for the most current information. The hospital's ER wait times, available on public websites, should be evaluated. NHRMC also offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up care and consultations. The availability and scope of these telehealth options should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Raleigh: Exploring Academic Medical Centers**

Raleigh, a 2-hour drive, provides access to renowned academic medical centers, such as **UNC Medical Center** and **Duke University Hospital**. These institutions often offer cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and specialized expertise.

**UNC Medical Center, Chapel Hill (Near Raleigh): An Academic Powerhouse**

UNC Medical Center, located in Chapel Hill, offers a comprehensive cancer center. The hospital's breast cancer program likely includes a multidisciplinary team of specialists. UNC Medical Center is a teaching hospital, so patients may have access to the latest research and treatment protocols. The hospital's CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. The most recent rating should be consulted on the CMS website. ER wait times should be evaluated on public websites. UNC Medical Center also offers extensive telehealth services, including remote consultations and follow-up appointments. The availability of these services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Duke University Hospital, Durham (Near Raleigh): A Research-Driven Approach**

Duke University Hospital, another academic powerhouse near Raleigh, boasts a renowned cancer center. Duke's breast cancer program likely offers a multidisciplinary approach, including access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments. The hospital's CMS star rating is a crucial factor to consider. The most recent rating should be consulted on the CMS website. ER wait times should be evaluated on public websites. Duke also offers extensive telehealth services. The availability of these services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Key Metrics for Evaluation:**

When comparing hospitals, consider these key metrics:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A general indicator of overall hospital quality, based on patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Reflects the hospital's efficiency and resource management.
* **Specialty Centers:** Dedicated cancer centers often provide more comprehensive and coordinated care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Look for teams of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working together.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) can indicate a hospital's commitment to quality.
* **Technology:** Access to advanced imaging (mammography, MRI), surgical techniques, and radiation therapy is crucial.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Can improve access to care and convenience for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide opportunities for cutting-edge treatments.
* **Support Services:** Look for patient navigators, support groups, and other resources to help patients navigate their journey.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Review patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the overall patient experience.

**Insurance and Financial Considerations:**

Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network. Inquire about the hospital's financial assistance programs and payment options. Understand the potential costs associated with treatment, including co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer treatment is a complex decision. Researching the options, considering the key metrics, and consulting with your primary care physician are essential steps. This review provides a starting point for your research, but it's crucial to gather information specific to your individual needs and circumstances. Contact the hospitals directly to ask specific questions, schedule consultations, and determine which facility best aligns with your preferences and healthcare needs.