28584, Swansboro, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28584, Swansboro, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Vicinity of ZIP Code 28584: A Scorecard

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. For residents near ZIP code 28584 (Swansboro, North Carolina), understanding the available options is crucial. This review examines the hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their breast cancer services, overall quality, and accessibility. While no single "score" can fully capture the nuances of cancer care, this analysis provides a framework for informed decision-making.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The immediate area around Swansboro offers a limited selection of hospitals. The primary options for comprehensive cancer care necessitate traveling to larger medical centers, primarily in New Bern and Jacksonville. This geographic reality highlights the importance of considering travel time and access when selecting a healthcare provider.

**CarolinaEast Medical Center (New Bern): A Regional Hub**

CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern, approximately a 45-minute drive from Swansboro, serves as a significant regional healthcare provider. While it is not a designated cancer center, CarolinaEast offers a range of services relevant to breast cancer treatment and diagnosis.

CarolinaEast's breast health services include mammography, ultrasound, and breast biopsies. The hospital’s imaging department is equipped with digital mammography technology, which can improve the detection of breast cancer. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer at CarolinaEast can access surgical oncology services. However, the hospital does not have a dedicated, comprehensive cancer center.

CarolinaEast's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a key indicator of overall hospital quality. As of the latest available data, CarolinaEast's CMS star rating is [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - *This is crucial information that needs to be updated regularly. Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most current rating.*]. This rating reflects a combination of factors, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.

ER wait times are another critical consideration. The average ER wait time at CarolinaEast can fluctuate. [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time - *This information is also subject to change. Check the hospital's website or a third-party source like ER Wait Times for the most recent data.*]. Shorter wait times can be particularly important during a health crisis.

CarolinaEast has made strides in telehealth, offering virtual appointments for certain specialties. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for follow-up appointments, consultations, and managing chronic conditions. [Insert Specific Telehealth Services Related to Oncology - *Research the specific telehealth offerings related to cancer care, such as virtual follow-up appointments, support groups, or consultations with specialists.*].

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville): A Closer Option**

Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, roughly a 30-minute drive from Swansboro, is a closer option. While not a major cancer center, Onslow Memorial offers breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.

Onslow Memorial provides mammography and breast ultrasound services. Patients requiring surgical intervention are typically referred to surgeons affiliated with the hospital. However, the hospital’s cancer care is not as comprehensive as that offered by larger regional centers.

Onslow Memorial's CMS star rating is [Insert Current CMS Star Rating - *Again, this is dynamic data. Verify the most current rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website.*]. This rating offers a snapshot of the hospital's overall performance.

ER wait times at Onslow Memorial are another factor to consider. [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time - *Check the hospital's website or a reliable third-party source for current data.*].

Telehealth services at Onslow Memorial are evolving. [Insert Specific Telehealth Services Related to Oncology - *Research the availability of telehealth services for cancer patients, such as virtual consultations or follow-up appointments.*].

**Referral Networks and Specialist Access:**

Both CarolinaEast and Onslow Memorial have referral networks that connect patients to specialists and advanced treatment options. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer may be referred to larger cancer centers in the region or further afield, depending on their specific needs and the complexity of their case.

Access to medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast surgeons is essential for comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of these specialists within the referral networks of CarolinaEast and Onslow Memorial is a critical factor. [Research the specific specialists affiliated with each hospital and their areas of expertise].

**Beyond the Hospitals: Other Considerations:**

**Cancer Centers:** While the hospitals near 28584 may not have dedicated cancer centers, the region offers access to cancer centers in larger cities like Raleigh or Wilmington. These centers typically provide a full spectrum of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, clinical trials, and supportive care.

**Support Services:** Breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. Access to support services, such as counseling, support groups, and patient navigators, is crucial. Both CarolinaEast and Onslow Memorial may offer or refer patients to these vital resources. [Investigate the availability of these support services at each hospital].

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Online platforms, such as Healthgrades and Google Reviews, can be helpful resources. [Research patient reviews for both hospitals].

**Insurance Coverage:** Understanding your insurance coverage is essential. Verify which hospitals and specialists are in your network and what services are covered.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. Research the availability of clinical trials at the hospitals and cancer centers in the region.

**The Role of Technology:**

Technology plays a vital role in breast cancer care. Hospitals should have access to advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the detection of breast cancer. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important for coordinating care and sharing information between providers.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Consider the accessibility of the hospitals and cancer centers. Factors such as distance, traffic, and parking can affect access to care. For patients who may have difficulty traveling, transportation assistance programs may be available.

**Specific Considerations for the 28584 Area:**

The rural nature of the area surrounding ZIP code 28584 means that residents may face longer travel times to access specialized cancer care. This highlights the importance of considering the distance to hospitals and cancer centers when making healthcare decisions.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice:**

Choosing the right hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. For residents near ZIP code 28584, the primary options are CarolinaEast Medical Center and Onslow Memorial Hospital. While these hospitals offer essential services, patients may need to travel to larger cancer centers for comprehensive treatment.

This review provides a starting point for evaluating the available options. By considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialist access, support services, and patient experience, individuals can make informed decisions about their breast cancer care. Regularly updating the information presented here, especially the CMS ratings and ER wait times, is crucial to ensure the most accurate and current assessment. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on individual needs, preferences, and the specific recommendations of your healthcare providers.