27212, Blanch, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27212, Blanch, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 27212**

Finding the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. This review examines hospitals near the 27212 ZIP code, focusing on key factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 27212 ZIP code primarily covers the city of Burlington, North Carolina. This area is served by a network of hospitals, each offering varying levels of lung cancer care. Proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Greensboro and Durham expands the available options. Evaluating these hospitals requires considering a range of metrics, including those provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other reputable sources.

**Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center**

Alamance Regional Medical Center, located in Burlington, is a primary hospital option for residents of the 27212 ZIP code. It is part of the Cone Health system, a well-regarded healthcare provider in the region. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it is crucial to check the most recent data on the CMS website. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, including areas relevant to lung cancer treatment.

Alamance Regional offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy), and radiation oncology. The hospital's ability to provide a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is a key indicator of comprehensive lung cancer care. The availability of a dedicated lung cancer screening program, adhering to the guidelines of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is also important.

ER wait times are a critical factor. While specific real-time wait times can vary, publicly available data from sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and third-party platforms provide estimates. Shorter wait times generally indicate efficient emergency department operations, which can be crucial in managing complications related to lung cancer treatment.

**Cone Health - The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital (Greensboro)**

Located in Greensboro, approximately 30 minutes from Burlington, The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital is the flagship hospital of the Cone Health system. This hospital often serves as a regional referral center, offering a broader range of specialized services and potentially more advanced treatment options. It is important to check the latest CMS star ratings, as these reflect overall hospital quality.

Moses Cone Hospital boasts a comprehensive cancer center, potentially offering specialized lung cancer programs. These programs might include access to clinical trials, advanced surgical techniques (like minimally invasive procedures), and state-of-the-art radiation therapy. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation can be a significant advantage for patients.

The hospital's size and scope typically translate to a wider array of specialists, including thoracic surgeons with extensive experience in lung cancer surgery. The availability of specialized nurses and support staff trained in oncology care is also a significant advantage. Telehealth services are increasingly common, and Moses Cone Hospital likely offers telehealth consultations for oncology patients. Check the hospital's website for specific information on telehealth availability, including the types of consultations offered (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management).

**Duke University Hospital (Durham)**

Located in Durham, approximately an hour's drive from Burlington, Duke University Hospital is a nationally recognized academic medical center. Duke consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the United States, and this reputation extends to its cancer care. The hospital's CMS star rating, while not the sole indicator of quality, provides a snapshot of overall performance.

Duke Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive lung cancer program. This program likely includes access to cutting-edge treatments, including clinical trials for novel therapies and advanced surgical techniques. The hospital's research focus translates to access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment.

Duke's thoracic surgery department is staffed by highly skilled surgeons with extensive experience in complex lung cancer cases. The hospital's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive coordinated care from a team of specialists. The availability of support services, such as genetic counseling, palliative care, and survivorship programs, is also a significant advantage. Duke also offers robust telehealth services, providing convenient access to specialists and follow-up care. Check the hospital's website for details on telehealth options.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill)**

Located in Chapel Hill, about an hour's drive from Burlington, UNC Medical Center is another major academic medical center. It is part of the UNC Health Care system and is known for its comprehensive cancer care. The hospital's CMS star rating should be reviewed for an assessment of overall quality.

UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center provides a wide range of lung cancer services. The center likely offers access to clinical trials, advanced imaging technologies, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy. The hospital's focus on research and innovation can be a major benefit for patients.

UNC Medical Center's thoracic surgery department is staffed by experienced surgeons specializing in lung cancer surgery. The hospital's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive coordinated care from a team of specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, and supportive care professionals. The availability of support services, such as genetic counseling, palliative care, and survivorship programs, is also a significant advantage. UNC also offers telehealth services, providing access to specialists and follow-up care. Check the hospital's website for details on telehealth options.

**Additional Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, it's important to consider the specific needs of each patient. Factors like the stage and type of lung cancer, the patient's overall health, and personal preferences play a role in choosing the right hospital.

* **ER Wait Times:** Check the CMS Hospital Compare website or other reliable sources for estimated ER wait times at each hospital. Shorter wait times can be beneficial, especially in emergencies.
* **Specialty Centers:** Assess the availability of specialized lung cancer programs, including access to clinical trials, advanced surgical techniques, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy.
* **Telehealth:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for oncology patients. Telehealth can provide convenient access to specialists and follow-up care.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

**Conclusion**

For residents near the 27212 ZIP code, several hospitals offer lung cancer care. Alamance Regional Medical Center provides local access, while Cone Health's Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital offers a broader range of services. Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center, both academic medical centers, provide comprehensive lung cancer programs. Evaluating each hospital based on factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities is crucial for making an informed decision. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and oncologist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.