28792, Hendersonville, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28792, Hendersonville, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care in Western North Carolina: A Scorecard for 28792

Finding the right breast cancer care is a deeply personal and critical journey. For residents of ZIP code 28792 (Waynesville, North Carolina, and surrounding areas), the search for top-tier medical facilities begins with understanding the landscape of available options. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals and centers offering breast cancer services in the region, focusing on key metrics to help inform your decision-making.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of 28792 offers a limited, yet crucial, set of choices. Haywood Regional Medical Center in nearby Clyde, NC, is the most readily accessible hospital. Further afield, the larger medical centers in Asheville, NC, become the primary options for specialized care.

**Haywood Regional Medical Center (Clyde, NC):**

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) serves as the primary local healthcare provider. While it may not possess the breadth of specialized cancer services found in larger facilities, it offers essential diagnostic and treatment capabilities. HRMC is a community hospital, and its focus is on providing comprehensive care for the local population.

* **CMS Star Rating:** HRMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** HRMC provides breast cancer screening through mammography, diagnostic imaging, and potentially some surgical interventions. Patients may need to be referred to other facilities for more complex treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at HRMC can fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times online or by phone before arriving.
* **Telehealth:** HRMC offers some telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Asheville: The Hub for Specialized Care:**

Asheville, approximately 30-45 minutes from Waynesville, is the regional hub for advanced medical care, including comprehensive breast cancer treatment. Several hospitals and specialty centers in Asheville offer a broader range of services and expertise.

**Mission Hospital (Asheville, NC):**

Mission Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare, is the largest hospital in western North Carolina. It's a major referral center and offers a comprehensive range of cancer services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Mission Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Cancer Center:** Mission Hospital operates a dedicated cancer center, which provides multidisciplinary care.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The cancer center offers a full spectrum of breast cancer services, including screening, diagnostic imaging (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy), radiation oncology, and supportive care services (e.g., nutrition, social work).
* **Surgical Oncology:** Mission Hospital has a team of breast surgeons specializing in various surgical techniques, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery.
* **Medical Oncology:** The hospital has a robust medical oncology department with experienced oncologists.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Mission Hospital provides advanced radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Mission Hospital can be longer due to its size and high patient volume. Checking real-time wait times is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** Mission Hospital offers a significant telehealth program, allowing patients to access consultations and follow-up care remotely. This can be particularly helpful for patients living outside of Asheville.
* **Clinical Trials:** Mission Hospital participates in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Accreditations:** Mission Hospital's cancer center is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons, indicating a commitment to quality cancer care.

**Park Ridge Health (Hendersonville, NC, near Asheville):**

Park Ridge Health, part of AdventHealth, is another significant healthcare provider in the region, located in Hendersonville, just south of Asheville.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Park Ridge Health has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Cancer Center:** Park Ridge Health has a cancer center that offers comprehensive cancer care services.
* **Breast Cancer Services:** The cancer center provides screening, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary; checking real-time wait times is advisable.
* **Telehealth:** Park Ridge Health offers telehealth services.
* **Accreditations:** Park Ridge Health's cancer program is accredited by the CoC.

**Specialty Centers and Outpatient Options:**

In addition to the main hospitals, several specialty centers and outpatient clinics in the Asheville area contribute to the breast cancer care ecosystem. These facilities often focus on specific aspects of care, such as imaging, radiation therapy, or supportive services.

* **Imaging Centers:** Several imaging centers in Asheville offer mammography and other breast imaging services. These centers may be more convenient for screening and diagnostic procedures.
* **Radiation Oncology Centers:** Independent radiation oncology centers provide specialized radiation therapy services.
* **Oncology Practices:** Numerous oncology practices in Asheville offer medical oncology consultations and treatments.

**Key Considerations for Patients:**

When choosing a breast cancer care provider, several factors should be considered:

* **Stage of Cancer:** The complexity of the cancer stage will influence the level of care needed. Early-stage cancers may be treated effectively at community hospitals, while more advanced cases often require the expertise of a comprehensive cancer center.
* **Treatment Preferences:** Patients should discuss their treatment preferences with their doctors. Some patients may prefer to receive all their care in one location, while others may be comfortable with a more decentralized approach.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming insurance coverage for specific hospitals and providers is essential.
* **Access and Convenience:** Consider the distance to the hospital or clinic, as well as the availability of transportation.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals or centers that offer comprehensive support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and expertise of the breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the patient experience at different facilities.

**Telehealth: A Growing Option:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in breast cancer care. It allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the main hospitals or have mobility limitations. The availability and quality of telehealth services should be considered when choosing a provider.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of 28792 have a range of options for breast cancer care. While Haywood Regional Medical Center provides essential local services, the larger hospitals and specialty centers in Asheville offer a broader spectrum of specialized care. Patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences when selecting a provider. By considering the factors outlined in this review, individuals can make informed decisions and access the best possible care for their specific situation.