28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28573, Pollocksville, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Eastern North Carolina: A Scorecard for ZIP Code 28573

Finding the right breast cancer care is a critical journey, and for residents of ZIP code 28573 (Swansboro, North Carolina, and surrounding areas), access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of the hospitals and healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services in the region, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to empower patients with the information needed to make informed decisions about their care.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players and Their Capabilities**

The healthcare landscape near Swansboro is primarily dominated by a few key players, each offering a varying range of services and specialties. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility is crucial for navigating the complexities of breast cancer treatment.

**Carteret Health Care (Morehead City, NC): A Community-Focused Approach**

Located approximately 20 miles east of Swansboro, Carteret Health Care serves as a primary healthcare provider for the coastal region. While not a major tertiary care center, Carteret Health Care offers essential services, including diagnostic imaging, such as mammography, and surgical oncology. They also offer chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Carteret Health Care has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

ER wait times at Carteret Health Care are typically in the range of 30-60 minutes, according to recent data. This can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, NC): A Regional Hub**

Approximately 30 miles northwest of Swansboro, Onslow Memorial Hospital is a larger regional hospital. It offers a more comprehensive range of services, including a dedicated cancer center.

Onslow Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.

The hospital's cancer center provides a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care, with medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and support staff working collaboratively. They offer advanced diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical services.

ER wait times at Onslow Memorial Hospital tend to be slightly longer than at Carteret Health Care, often averaging between 45-90 minutes.

**Vidant Health System: A Networked Approach**

Vidant Health, a large healthcare system, has a presence in the region, with its flagship hospital, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, NC, being a significant referral center. While located further away (approximately 90 miles northwest of Swansboro), Vidant Medical Center is often a key destination for more complex cases and specialized treatments.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Tertiary Care Center**

Vidant Medical Center is the largest hospital in eastern North Carolina and a Level I Trauma Center. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating.

Vidant Medical Center's Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials. They also have a dedicated breast care center that provides a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center are typically longer than at the smaller hospitals, often exceeding 90 minutes, reflecting the higher volume of patients and the complexity of cases.

**Comparing the Players: Key Metrics and Considerations**

When evaluating breast cancer care options, several factors should be considered. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, with higher ratings indicating better performance across various metrics.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times can be crucial in emergencies and for accessing timely care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Dedicated cancer centers often provide a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to care.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** A team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and support staff, is essential for optimal outcomes.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services.

**Diagnostic Imaging: The Foundation of Early Detection**

Early detection is critical in breast cancer treatment. Access to high-quality diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, is essential. All the hospitals mentioned offer mammography services, but the availability of advanced imaging techniques may vary.

**Surgical Oncology: Expertise in the Operating Room**

Breast cancer surgery is a critical component of treatment. The hospitals in the region offer surgical oncology services, but the experience and specialization of the surgeons may vary. Patients should inquire about the surgeon's experience and the types of surgical procedures offered, such as lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.

**Medical Oncology: Chemotherapy and Beyond**

Medical oncologists play a crucial role in developing and managing treatment plans, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The hospitals offer medical oncology services, but the availability of advanced therapies and clinical trials may vary.

**Radiation Oncology: Targeted Treatment**

Radiation therapy is often used to treat breast cancer. The hospitals offer radiation oncology services, but the technology and expertise of the radiation oncologists may vary. Patients should inquire about the types of radiation therapy offered, such as external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services can be a valuable resource for patients, especially those living in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. The availability of telehealth services varies among the hospitals. Patients should inquire about the telehealth options available.

**Support Services: A Holistic Approach**

Breast cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Access to support services, such as counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation services, is essential for patient well-being. The hospitals offer a range of support services, but the specific services available may vary.

**Making Informed Decisions: A Patient-Centered Approach**

Choosing the right breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific services offered by each hospital. It is essential to ask questions, gather information, and seek second opinions if needed.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Options**

For residents of ZIP code 28573, access to breast cancer care involves a combination of local resources and regional referral centers. Carteret Health Care provides essential services, while Onslow Memorial Hospital offers a more comprehensive range of care. Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, though further away, serves as a tertiary care center for complex cases. Patients should carefully evaluate the services offered by each facility, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. By gathering information and actively participating in their care, patients can make informed decisions and navigate the challenges of breast cancer treatment with confidence.