28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28604, Banner Elk, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in the Hickory, NC Area: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28604

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan can be overwhelming. For residents near Hickory, North Carolina (ZIP code 28604), access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review examines the major hospitals in the area, focusing on their breast cancer services, overall quality indicators, and accessibility. While the "best" hospital is ultimately a matter of individual needs and preferences, this overview provides a factual foundation for informed decision-making.

**Focusing on the Players:**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Hickory area include Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC) and Frye Regional Medical Center, both located in Hickory. Additionally, residents may consider facilities in neighboring cities like Charlotte, offering access to larger, specialized centers.

**Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC): A Local Hub**

Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC), located at 810 Fairgrove Church Road NE, Hickory, NC 28601, is a significant player in the local healthcare landscape. CVMC is a 339-bed facility and a vital resource for the community.

**Breast Cancer Services at CVMC:**

CVMC offers a range of breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The hospital has a dedicated Breast Center, which provides a multidisciplinary approach to care. They offer screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and breast biopsies. Surgical options include lumpectomy and mastectomy, with reconstructive surgery available. Medical oncology services encompass chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Radiation oncology utilizes advanced technologies.

**CVMC Quality Indicators:**

CVMC's performance is reflected in its publicly available data. As of the latest available data, CVMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating is based on a comprehensive assessment of patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. The CMS star rating is a useful starting point, but it's crucial to delve deeper into specific areas of interest.

**ER Wait Times at CVMC:**

Emergency room wait times are a key consideration for any healthcare facility. According to recent data, the average ER wait time at CVMC can fluctuate. It's advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital directly, particularly during peak hours.

**Frye Regional Medical Center: Another Local Option**

Frye Regional Medical Center, located at 420 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601, offers another significant healthcare option for residents.

**Breast Cancer Services at Frye Regional:**

Frye Regional provides a comprehensive breast cancer program. Services include screening and diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, and breast MRI. They offer surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy, with reconstructive surgery capabilities. Medical oncology services, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies, are available. Radiation oncology services are also provided.

**Frye Regional Quality Indicators:**

Frye Regional, like CVMC, is subject to CMS assessments. It is important to check the most recent CMS data for the hospital's current star rating. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various quality metrics.

**ER Wait Times at Frye Regional:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for emergency care. It's important to check the current ER wait times at Frye Regional through online resources or by contacting the hospital directly.

**Beyond Hickory: Exploring Regional Options**

While CVMC and Frye Regional are the primary local hospitals, residents may consider facilities in the Charlotte metropolitan area, approximately an hour's drive from Hickory. This opens up access to larger, more specialized cancer centers.

**Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute (Charlotte): A Regional Powerhouse**

Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, with multiple locations in Charlotte, is a regional leader in cancer care. This institute is a comprehensive cancer center, offering a wide array of services and advanced treatment options.

**Breast Cancer Services at Levine Cancer Institute:**

Levine Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive breast cancer program. They provide state-of-the-art imaging, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), breast MRI, and PET/CT scans. Surgical options encompass lumpectomy, mastectomy, and complex reconstructive procedures. Medical oncology services include chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and clinical trials. Radiation oncology utilizes advanced technologies such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). The institute also has a robust survivorship program.

**Levine Cancer Institute Quality Indicators:**

As part of the Atrium Health system, Levine Cancer Institute benefits from the system's overall commitment to quality. Atrium Health hospitals generally have good CMS star ratings, and Levine Cancer Institute is known for its high standards of care. Specific CMS ratings for individual locations should be reviewed. The institute is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, a mark of excellence in cancer care.

**ER Wait Times at Atrium Health Facilities:**

ER wait times at Atrium Health facilities in Charlotte can vary. Checking current wait times through the Atrium Health website or other online resources is advisable, especially during peak hours.

**Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center (Charlotte): Another Charlotte Choice**

Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte is another major healthcare provider with a strong reputation.

**Breast Cancer Services at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center:**

Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center offers comprehensive breast cancer services. These include advanced imaging, surgical options, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The hospital has a dedicated breast cancer center that provides a multidisciplinary approach to care. They offer screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and breast biopsies. Surgical options include lumpectomy and mastectomy, with reconstructative surgery available. Medical oncology services encompass chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Radiation oncology utilizes advanced technologies.

**Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center Quality Indicators:**

Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center generally maintains high standards of care. It is important to review the hospital's current CMS star rating and other quality metrics.

**ER Wait Times at Novant Health Facilities:**

ER wait times at Novant Health facilities in Charlotte can vary. Checking current wait times through the Novant Health website or other online resources is advisable.

**Telehealth Considerations:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare. Both CVMC and Frye Regional offer some telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The larger cancer centers in Charlotte, like Levine Cancer Institute and Novant Health, also have robust telehealth programs. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

When choosing a hospital, consider the availability of specialized expertise. Look for hospitals with dedicated breast cancer specialists, including breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast radiologists. The presence of specialized breast cancer centers, like those at Levine Cancer Institute and Novant Health, can be a significant advantage.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

For some patients, participation in clinical trials may be an option. Researching the availability of clinical trials at each hospital is essential. Larger cancer centers like Levine Cancer Institute often have a more extensive portfolio of clinical trials.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare. Reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, such as those available on the CMS Hospital Compare website, can provide valuable insights. Reading online reviews and testimonials can also offer a glimpse into the experiences of other patients.

**Financial Considerations:**

Understanding the costs of care is essential. Contacting the hospitals' billing departments to inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance programs is highly recommended.

**Making the Choice:**

Choosing the "best" hospital for breast cancer care is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for treatment?
* **Services Offered:** Does the hospital offer the specific services you need?
* **Specialist Expertise:** Does the hospital have specialists with experience in your specific type of breast cancer?
* **Quality Indicators:** What are the hospital's CMS star ratings and other quality metrics?
* **Patient Experience:** What are other patients' experiences with the hospital?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Does the hospital offer telehealth options?
* **Financial Considerations:** Can you afford the cost of care?

By carefully considering these factors and researching the hospitals in the Hickory area and beyond, residents near ZIP code 28604 can make an informed decision about their breast cancer care. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan.