23888, Wakefield, Virginia Breast Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 23888, Wakefield, Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breast Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23888

Navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan is a daunting journey. Access to quality care, from early detection to advanced therapies, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 23888 (South Hill, Virginia) and provides a fact-based assessment of their breast cancer services, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The immediate vicinity of 23888 is primarily served by community hospitals and regional medical centers. However, residents often travel to larger, more specialized facilities for comprehensive cancer care. The closest major cities with significant healthcare infrastructure are Richmond, Virginia, and Raleigh, North Carolina, both within a reasonable driving distance.

**Community Hospitals: A Foundation of Care:**

Community hospitals in the area, while not necessarily boasting dedicated, comprehensive breast cancer centers, play a vital role in early detection and initial care. They typically offer mammography services, diagnostic imaging, and may provide access to general surgeons who can perform biopsies. These facilities often serve as the entry point for patients, referring them to specialists for more advanced treatment.

**Specific Hospital Analysis (Note: Data availability and accuracy can fluctuate. Always verify information directly with the hospital):**

**1. Community Memorial Hospital (South Hill, VA):**

Located directly within ZIP code 23888, Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) is a critical resource. While not a designated cancer center, CMH provides essential services. They offer screening mammograms, which are crucial for early detection. CMH also has diagnostic imaging capabilities, including ultrasound, to further evaluate any findings. Patients diagnosed with breast abnormalities at CMH are typically referred to specialists for further evaluation and treatment.

**2. VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (South Hill, VA):**

VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) is a member of the VCU Health System, which can provide access to a broader network of specialists and resources. This affiliation can be beneficial for patients needing more complex care. CMH has a dedicated Breast Care Center, which offers a multidisciplinary approach to breast health. They offer screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasound, and breast biopsies. While they may not have on-site radiation therapy or medical oncology, they facilitate referrals to VCU Health's Massey Cancer Center in Richmond for comprehensive treatment.

**3. Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center (Emporia, VA):**

Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center (SVRMC) is another regional hospital that residents near 23888 might utilize. SVRMC provides screening mammography and diagnostic services. They also have a network of specialists who can provide consultations and referrals for further care. SVRMC may not have the same breadth of services as larger cancer centers, but it serves as a convenient option for initial screenings and consultations.

**4. Duke Health (Raleigh, NC):**

Duke Health, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a major academic medical center that offers comprehensive cancer care, including breast cancer treatment. Duke Cancer Institute is a renowned center, offering a multidisciplinary approach with medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists. Duke Health has a robust research program, providing access to clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies. The travel distance from 23888 to Raleigh is considerable, but the comprehensive care offered may be a significant draw for some patients.

**5. UNC Health (Chapel Hill, NC):**

UNC Health, also in North Carolina, is another leading academic medical center with a strong reputation for cancer care. The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center offers a wide range of services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. UNC Health is known for its research and clinical trial programs, providing access to innovative treatments. Like Duke Health, UNC Health requires a longer travel time from 23888.

**6. VCU Health Massey Cancer Center (Richmond, VA):**

VCU Health Massey Cancer Center, located in Richmond, Virginia, is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center. This designation signifies a high level of expertise and resources. Massey Cancer Center offers a comprehensive range of breast cancer services, including advanced imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care. They have a strong research program and offer access to clinical trials. The proximity to 23888 makes Massey a more accessible option for many residents.

**Key Performance Indicators and Considerations:**

**CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics. These ratings can be a helpful, though imperfect, indicator of overall hospital quality. Check the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date ratings for each hospital. Remember that these ratings reflect the overall performance of the hospital, not necessarily the quality of breast cancer care specifically.

**ER Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms. Shorter wait times can indicate better efficiency and potentially better access to care. Check the hospital's website or third-party websites like Healthgrades or Vitals for estimated ER wait times. Keep in mind that these are averages and can vary based on the time of day and patient volume.

**Specialty Centers and Multidisciplinary Approach:** A dedicated breast cancer center, or a multidisciplinary team approach, is crucial for comprehensive care. This means having specialists from various disciplines, such as surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, pathology, and reconstructive surgery, working together to develop a personalized treatment plan. Look for hospitals that emphasize this collaborative approach.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and supportive care. Check if the hospitals offer telehealth services for breast cancer patients. This can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues.

**Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates that a hospital meets certain quality standards. Look for hospitals with CoC accreditation.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can offer information about patient satisfaction, communication, and overall experience.

**Research and Clinical Trials:** For some patients, participation in clinical trials may be an option. Academic medical centers like Duke Health, UNC Health, and VCU Health Massey Cancer Center often have robust research programs and offer access to clinical trials.

**Specific Services to Inquire About:**

When choosing a hospital, inquire about the following specific services:

* **Screening Mammography:** Availability and type (e.g., 3D mammography).
* **Diagnostic Imaging:** Ultrasound, MRI, and other advanced imaging capabilities.
* **Biopsy Procedures:** Stereotactic, ultrasound-guided, and MRI-guided biopsies.
* **Surgical Options:** Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery options.
* **Medical Oncology:** Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Availability of different radiation therapy techniques.
* **Supportive Care:** Access to social workers, patient navigators, genetic counseling, and support groups.

**Conclusion:**

Residents near ZIP code 23888 have a range of options for breast cancer care, from community hospitals offering basic services to comprehensive cancer centers in Richmond and North Carolina. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the stage of the cancer. Early detection is key, so regular screenings are essential. Patients should research their options, consider factors like proximity, services offered, and patient reviews, and consult with their primary care physician to determine the most appropriate course of action. Remember to verify all information directly with the hospitals, as services and data can change.