27939, Grandy, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27939, Grandy, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Manteo, NC (ZIP Code 27939): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care is paramount. This review analyzes the hospitals near Manteo, North Carolina (ZIP code 27939), focusing on their lung cancer services, accessibility, and performance indicators. The goal is to provide residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Proximity and Options: The Local Landscape**

Manteo, located on the Outer Banks, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Due to its relatively rural setting, residents often rely on a combination of local facilities and those further afield. The primary hospital serving the immediate area is The Outer Banks Hospital (TOBH) in Nags Head, approximately a 15-minute drive. Further options include hospitals in Elizabeth City, about an hour away, and those in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area, roughly a two-hour drive.

**The Outer Banks Hospital: A Closer Look**

The Outer Banks Hospital (TOBH) is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special consideration from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) due to its rural location and limited resources. TOBH does not currently have a CMS star rating. This rating system, based on various quality metrics, is a widely used indicator of hospital performance. However, it's important to note that critical access hospitals are evaluated differently.

TOBH offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and emergency care. While it doesn't have a dedicated lung cancer center, it provides access to pulmonologists and oncologists who can diagnose and manage lung cancer cases. Patients requiring complex treatments or advanced surgical procedures may be referred to larger facilities.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in urgent situations. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check the hospital's website or call directly for the most up-to-date information. The Outer Banks Hospital, being a smaller facility, generally experiences shorter wait times compared to larger, urban hospitals.

**Elizabeth City: Sentara Albemarle Medical Center**

Approximately an hour's drive from Manteo, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City offers a more comprehensive range of services. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This indicates that it performs at an average level compared to other hospitals nationwide.

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center provides a broader array of specialized care, including oncology services. They have a cancer center that offers chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. While not specifically a "lung cancer center," the oncology department is equipped to manage lung cancer cases.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Both The Outer Banks Hospital and Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offer telehealth services. These services can include virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can significantly improve access to care for residents of Manteo, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability and specific telehealth offerings vary, so contacting the hospitals directly is recommended.

**Norfolk/Virginia Beach: Expanding the Horizon**

The Norfolk/Virginia Beach area, about a two-hour drive, provides access to several larger, more specialized hospitals. These facilities often have dedicated lung cancer centers and advanced treatment options.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a flagship hospital within the Sentara Healthcare system. It is a Level I trauma center and has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. It is a major referral center, providing access to highly specialized medical and surgical care. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital has a comprehensive cancer program, including a dedicated lung cancer program. They offer advanced diagnostic capabilities, surgical expertise, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials.

**Virginia Oncology Associates:** While not a hospital, Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA) has multiple locations in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area. VOA is a large, independent oncology practice that provides comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive services. They often collaborate with hospitals like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for inpatient care and surgical procedures.

**Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center:** Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center, also in Norfolk, is another option. It has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. It offers cancer care services, including medical oncology and radiation oncology.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

When evaluating lung cancer care, it's crucial to consider the availability of specialized centers and the expertise of the medical staff. Look for hospitals with multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:** Advanced diagnostic imaging, such as PET/CT scans, is essential for accurate staging and treatment planning. Ensure the hospitals you consider have access to these technologies.

**Surgical Options:** Thoracic surgeons specializing in lung cancer surgery are vital. Inquire about the hospital's surgical volume and experience. Minimally invasive surgical techniques, like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), can lead to faster recovery times.

**Treatment Modalities:** Access to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies is crucial. Some hospitals offer immunotherapy and clinical trials, which can be beneficial for certain patients.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Inquire about the hospital's involvement in clinical trials and whether they are accepting patients.

**Patient Support Services:** Lung cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Look for hospitals that offer patient support services, such as support groups, counseling, and palliative care.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of travel are essential, especially for frequent appointments and treatments.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the pulmonologists, oncologists, and surgeons.
* **Hospital Reputation:** Consider the hospital's overall reputation, patient reviews, and quality ratings.
* **Communication and Patient Experience:** Evaluate the hospital's communication practices and patient satisfaction scores.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. Carefully weigh the factors discussed above, considering your individual needs and preferences. Don't hesitate to seek second opinions and ask questions. Contact the hospitals directly to gather more specific information about their services, programs, and wait times. By taking a proactive approach, you can find the best possible care for your situation.