27932, Edenton, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27932, Edenton, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Hospital Review Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27932)**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care, including experienced oncologists, advanced treatment options, and supportive services, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP code 27932), assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will consider factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Regional Healthcare Landscape**

Elizabeth City, NC, is a relatively rural area. Consequently, residents often rely on regional hospitals and may need to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care. Proximity to Norfolk, VA, and the presence of smaller community hospitals in the area shape the available options.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (Elizabeth City, NC)**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center is the closest full-service hospital to Elizabeth City. As a community hospital, its focus is on providing a broad range of services, including emergency care, general surgery, and internal medicine. While Sentara Albemarle may not have a dedicated lung cancer center, it offers diagnostic capabilities like CT scans and biopsies, crucial for initial assessments. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer here would likely be referred to oncologists, potentially within the Sentara Healthcare system, for treatment. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). ER wait times at this hospital can vary, but are generally in line with other community hospitals in the area. Telehealth services are increasingly available through the Sentara system, potentially offering follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (Norfolk, VA)**

Approximately 50 miles north of Elizabeth City, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital serves as a major referral center for the region. This flagship hospital of the Sentara Healthcare system is a Level I Trauma Center and a comprehensive cancer center. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating. This hospital likely has a dedicated oncology department, offering a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care. This includes medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and specialized nurses. They likely have advanced diagnostic capabilities, including PET scans and advanced imaging. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is also likely to offer a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and potentially clinical trials. The hospital is likely to have a strong telehealth presence, facilitating access to specialists for patients in Elizabeth City and the surrounding areas. ER wait times at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital are longer than at smaller community hospitals, reflecting the higher volume of patients.

**Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) and its Affiliates (Norfolk, VA)**

EVMS, located in Norfolk, VA, is a major academic medical center. EVMS partners with Sentara Healthcare, and this collaboration significantly enhances the cancer care available in the region. EVMS physicians and researchers are at the forefront of lung cancer research and treatment. Patients may benefit from access to cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials. The EVMS/Sentara partnership provides a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care, similar to what is available at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News, VA)**

Located further north, Riverside Regional Medical Center is another option for lung cancer care. This hospital has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated oncology department with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists. Riverside Regional Medical Center is likely to offer advanced diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and potentially clinical trials. They may also have a robust telehealth program. Riverside Regional Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Chesapeake Regional Healthcare (Chesapeake, VA)**

Chesapeake Regional Healthcare is another hospital in the Hampton Roads area that may provide lung cancer care. Chesapeake Regional is a community hospital with cancer services, including medical oncology and radiation oncology. While it might not have the same level of specialization as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital or Riverside Regional Medical Center, it offers a convenient option for some patients. The hospital is likely to offer diagnostic services and chemotherapy, and may have a radiation oncology department. Chesapeake Regional Healthcare has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Oncologist Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the oncologist are critical. Research the oncologist's background, training, and experience in treating lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Technology and Equipment:** Advanced diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy equipment, and surgical capabilities are essential.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer care often requires a team of specialists. Look for a hospital that offers a multidisciplinary approach with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other supportive care providers.
* **Support Services:** Access to support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and support groups, can significantly improve the patient experience.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that participate in clinical trials, which can provide access to the latest treatment options.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can facilitate follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists, especially for patients in rural areas.
* **Hospital Ratings:** CMS star ratings offer a general indication of hospital quality, but they should be considered alongside other factors.

**Specific Considerations for Elizabeth City Residents**

Residents of Elizabeth City and the surrounding areas should consider the following:

* **Travel Distance:** The distance to hospitals in Norfolk, VA, and Newport News, VA, will be a factor.
* **Transportation:** Consider transportation options, especially for frequent appointments.
* **Local Support:** Assess the availability of local support services, such as patient navigators and support groups.
* **Coordination of Care:** Ensure the hospital and oncology team can effectively coordinate care with the patient's primary care physician.

**Conclusion**

For lung cancer care near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP code 27932), Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and the EVMS/Sentara partnership offer the most comprehensive options. These facilities provide advanced diagnostic capabilities, a multidisciplinary approach, and access to cutting-edge treatments. Riverside Regional Medical Center and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare are also potential options, offering comprehensive cancer services. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center provides initial diagnostic services and referrals. Residents should carefully evaluate their needs and preferences, considering factors like oncologist expertise, treatment options, support services, and travel distance. Thorough research and consultation with healthcare professionals are crucial in making informed decisions about lung cancer care.