27215, Burlington, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27215, Burlington, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Greensboro Area: A Deep Dive for Patients Near 27215

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review analyzes hospitals near the 27215 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics relevant to lung cancer patients, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. While 27215 is a Greensboro, North Carolina ZIP code, the analysis will include hospitals in the broader Greensboro-High Point metropolitan area to provide a comprehensive overview of available care.

**Cone Health: A Regional Powerhouse**

Cone Health, a major healthcare system in the Greensboro area, is a significant player in lung cancer treatment. Its flagship hospital, **Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital**, is a central point of care. Moses Cone holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. While this rating is average, it's crucial to consider it within the context of the hospital's broader services. CMS ratings reflect a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

Moses Cone offers a comprehensive cancer center, often a key indicator of lung cancer care quality. This center typically provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists to create individualized treatment plans. Patients should inquire about the specific lung cancer programs and the availability of clinical trials.

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for any patient. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, Moses Cone's average wait times can be found on their website and through third-party sources. Patients needing urgent care should be aware of these times, but also consider that these are averages and individual experiences may vary.

Cone Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, a crucial factor for lung cancer patients who may face mobility challenges or live in more rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists without requiring in-person visits. Patients should investigate the specific telehealth services available, including remote monitoring programs and virtual support groups.

**The Moses Cone Cancer Center** is a major focal point for lung cancer treatment. Patients should investigate the center's specific accreditations, such as those from the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons. Accreditation signifies adherence to specific standards of care and commitment to quality.

**Duke Health: A Strong Regional Presence**

While not directly within the immediate vicinity of 27215, **Duke Health** has a strong regional presence and is a significant option for lung cancer care, particularly at its **Duke University Hospital** in Durham, approximately an hour's drive from Greensboro. Duke University Hospital consistently receives high ratings and is a **5-star rated hospital from CMS**, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.

Duke's lung cancer program is renowned for its research and advanced treatment options. Patients can often access cutting-edge therapies, including clinical trials and innovative surgical techniques. The hospital’s reputation for expertise in complex cases is a significant draw.

The Duke Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive approach to cancer care. Patients can expect a multidisciplinary team, including dedicated thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The Institute is known for its focus on personalized medicine, tailoring treatments to the specific genetic profile of the tumor.

While the distance from Greensboro is a factor, Duke's commitment to telehealth can mitigate some travel challenges. They offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals.

**UNC Health: Another Leading Option**

**UNC Medical Center** in Chapel Hill, also approximately an hour's drive from Greensboro, is another leading academic medical center offering advanced lung cancer care. UNC Medical Center is a **4-star rated hospital from CMS**.

UNC's Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is a major hub for cancer research and treatment. Patients can access a wide range of services, including state-of-the-art imaging, surgical options, and advanced radiation therapy techniques. The center's focus on research translates to access to clinical trials and cutting-edge therapies.

The hospital's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care from a team of specialists. Patients can expect collaboration between pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.

UNC Health also offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who need to travel for treatment or have mobility limitations.

**Other Considerations: Community Hospitals and Outpatient Centers**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several community hospitals and outpatient centers in the Greensboro-High Point area offer lung cancer care. These facilities may provide diagnostic services, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care.

**Wesley Long Hospital**, part of Cone Health, is another hospital within the Cone Health network. It may provide services such as chemotherapy and supportive care.

**High Point Medical Center**, also part of Cone Health, is located in High Point and offers cancer services.

**Outpatient oncology centers** can provide convenient access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other supportive services. These centers often have shorter wait times than hospitals and may offer a more patient-centered experience.

**Important Factors to Consider**

Beyond hospital ratings and services, several other factors are crucial when choosing a lung cancer treatment center.

* **Specialist Expertise:** Inquire about the experience and credentials of the pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Look for specialists who are board-certified and have extensive experience in treating lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies. Ask about the availability of clinical trials at the hospital.
* **Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, support groups, counseling, and palliative care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the hospital's patient experience.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing up blood. While specific wait times fluctuate, patients should research average wait times for hospitals in the area. Consider the potential impact of longer wait times on your health and well-being.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for lung cancer patients. It can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists without requiring in-person visits. Patients should investigate the specific telehealth services offered by each hospital, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and virtual support groups.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a complex decision. This review provides a starting point for patients near the 27215 ZIP code, highlighting key factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. Patients should conduct thorough research, consult with their primary care physicians, and consider their individual needs and preferences when making their decision. The best choice is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the most comprehensive treatment options, and the best possible patient experience. Remember to contact the hospitals directly to obtain the most up-to-date information on services, wait times, and telehealth offerings.