28574, Richlands, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28574, Richlands, North Carolina is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Eastern North Carolina: A Review for ZIP Code 28574

The residents of ZIP code 28574, encompassing the town of Swansboro, North Carolina, have access to a range of healthcare options for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This review analyzes the key hospitals and healthcare facilities in the surrounding area, focusing on their breast cancer services, performance metrics, and accessibility. The information provided is intended to help patients make informed decisions about their care.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Reach**

The primary hospitals serving the Swansboro area are located in Jacksonville, New Bern, and Morehead City. These facilities offer varying levels of breast cancer care, from basic screening to comprehensive treatment programs. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each institution is crucial for patients seeking the best possible outcomes.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Reach**

**Onslow Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville, NC:** Located closest to Swansboro, Onslow Memorial Hospital (OMH) is a vital community hospital. While it doesn't have a dedicated, freestanding cancer center, OMH offers breast cancer screening services, including mammograms and potentially ultrasounds. The hospital's focus is on providing core services to the local population.

* **CMS Star Rating:** OMH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

* **ER Wait Times:** Average ER wait times at OMH fluctuate, but it's generally advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the emergency room. Shorter wait times are a positive indicator of hospital efficiency.

* **Breast Cancer Services:** OMH's breast cancer services primarily focus on screening and initial diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer at OMH are typically referred to specialists for further treatment, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology.

**CarolinaEast Medical Center, New Bern, NC:** CarolinaEast Medical Center is a larger regional hospital, offering a more comprehensive range of services than OMH. It’s located in New Bern, a short drive from Swansboro.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CarolinaEast Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CarolinaEast can vary. Checking online or calling ahead for current estimates is recommended.

* **Breast Cancer Services:** CarolinaEast offers a more robust breast cancer program than OMH. This includes:

* **Screening and Diagnostic Services:** Mammography, ultrasound, and potentially MRI.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Breast surgeons perform lumpectomies, mastectomies, and sentinel lymph node biopsies.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists provide chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy services are available.
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Carteret Health Care, Morehead City, NC:** Carteret Health Care, located in Morehead City, provides services to the coastal communities, including those near Swansboro.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Carteret Health Care has a 3-star CMS rating.

* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Carteret Health Care should be checked before arrival, as they can fluctuate.

* **Breast Cancer Services:** Carteret Health Care offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including:

* **Screening and Diagnostic Services:** Mammography, ultrasound, and potentially MRI.
* **Surgical Oncology:** Breast surgeons perform lumpectomies, mastectomies, and sentinel lymph node biopsies.
* **Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists provide chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Radiation therapy services are available.
* **Support Services:** Counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs.

**Specialized Cancer Centers and Networks**

While the primary hospitals offer essential services, patients may also seek care at specialized cancer centers or through affiliations with larger healthcare networks. These centers often have access to cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to care.

**UNC Health Southeastern Cancer Center:** While not directly in the immediate vicinity of Swansboro, the UNC Health Southeastern Cancer Center in Lumberton, NC, may be an option for some patients. This center is part of the larger UNC Health system, which provides comprehensive cancer care. Patients seeking access to clinical trials or specialized treatments might consider this option.

**Telehealth and Accessibility**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas. It offers convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services.

**Telehealth Availability:** All the hospitals mentioned above are likely to offer some telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when scheduling appointments.

**Accessibility Considerations:** The distance from Swansboro to these hospitals is a factor. While Jacksonville is the closest, New Bern and Morehead City offer more comprehensive cancer services. Patients should consider travel time, traffic, and personal preferences when choosing a facility.

**Key Considerations for Patients**

Choosing a hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should consider the following factors:

* **Stage of Cancer:** The stage of the cancer will influence the treatment plan. Patients with early-stage cancer may be able to receive treatment closer to home, while those with more advanced disease may need to travel to a specialized center.
* **Treatment Preferences:** Patients should discuss their treatment preferences with their doctors. Some patients may prefer a particular type of surgery or radiation therapy.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage will influence the choice of hospital. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted at the chosen facility.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services, such as counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs, is essential for patients' well-being.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Researching patient reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at a particular hospital.

**Conclusion**

Residents of ZIP code 28574 have several options for breast cancer care. Onslow Memorial Hospital provides basic screening services, while CarolinaEast Medical Center and Carteret Health Care offer more comprehensive programs. Patients may also consider specialized cancer centers or affiliations with larger healthcare networks. When making a decision, patients should consider their individual needs, treatment preferences, insurance coverage, and access to support services. By carefully evaluating these factors, patients can make informed choices and receive the best possible care.