27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Manteo, NC (ZIP Code 27974): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting experience. Finding the right medical care, especially in a rural area like Manteo, North Carolina, requires careful consideration. This review examines the landscape of lung cancer treatment options near ZIP code 27974, focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Proximity and Major Healthcare Providers**

Manteo, located on the Outer Banks, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access due to its relative isolation. Residents primarily rely on hospitals in the surrounding areas, including Elizabeth City and Greenville, NC. The closest hospital is The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, but it is not a major cancer center. Therefore, patients often need to travel for comprehensive lung cancer care.

**The Outer Banks Hospital (Nags Head, NC): A Local Option**

The Outer Banks Hospital, located in Nags Head (approximately 15 minutes from Manteo), serves as a critical access point for immediate medical needs. While it doesn't offer comprehensive lung cancer treatment, it provides essential services like emergency care and diagnostic imaging. Patients may begin their diagnostic journey here with initial scans and tests. However, for advanced treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, patients are typically referred to larger facilities. The hospital's website does not list CMS star ratings. ER wait times are not readily available.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (Elizabeth City, NC): A Regional Hub**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City (approximately 1 hour from Manteo) is a larger regional hospital. It offers a broader range of services than The Outer Banks Hospital. It is a member of the Sentara Healthcare system, which has a reputation for quality care in the region. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center likely provides some level of cancer care, including chemotherapy and potentially radiation therapy. It is important to verify the specific lung cancer services offered. CMS star ratings are not readily available. ER wait times can vary.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Flagship Destination**

Vidant Medical Center in Greenville (approximately 2 hours from Manteo) is the most significant healthcare provider within a reasonable distance. As a flagship hospital for Vidant Health, it functions as a regional referral center. Vidant Medical Center is a Level I Trauma Center, which indicates a high level of emergency care capability. It also has a comprehensive cancer center that likely offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Vidant Medical Center is more likely to have specialized lung cancer specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Vidant Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times can vary.

**Duke Health (Durham, NC): A Premier Option (Further Travel)**

While further away (approximately 3.5 hours from Manteo), Duke University Hospital in Durham is a nationally recognized cancer center. Duke is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, indicating a high level of research, advanced treatment options, and specialized expertise in lung cancer. Duke offers cutting-edge treatments, including advanced surgical techniques, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and access to clinical trials. Duke University Hospital consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation for cancer care. Duke University Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating. ER wait times can vary.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill, NC): Another Top-Tier Choice (Further Travel)**

UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill (approximately 3.5 hours from Manteo) is another premier cancer center. It is also an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. UNC offers a similar level of expertise and advanced treatment options as Duke, including access to clinical trials and a multidisciplinary approach to care. UNC Medical Center is a highly regarded institution for cancer treatment. UNC Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times can vary.

**Specialized Lung Cancer Services and Centers**

When evaluating lung cancer treatment options, consider the availability of specialized services:

* **Multidisciplinary Cancer Centers:** These centers bring together a team of specialists (pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and supportive care staff) to develop a coordinated treatment plan. Vidant Medical Center, Duke, and UNC Medical Center likely have multidisciplinary cancer centers.
* **Thoracic Surgery:** Look for hospitals with experienced thoracic surgeons who specialize in lung cancer surgery.
* **Radiation Oncology:** The availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), is crucial.
* **Medical Oncology:** Access to medical oncologists who specialize in lung cancer and can administer chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapies is essential.
* **Clinical Trials:** Consider hospitals that offer clinical trials, which can provide access to the latest experimental treatments. Duke and UNC are particularly strong in this area.
* **Supportive Care:** Look for services like palliative care, pain management, and psychosocial support to address the physical and emotional needs of patients.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for patients in rural areas. Check the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer consultations, follow-up appointments, and supportive care. Vidant Health, Duke, and UNC likely offer telehealth options. Remote patient monitoring programs, which allow healthcare providers to track patients' vital signs and symptoms remotely, can also improve care and reduce the need for frequent hospital visits.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Consider the following factors when choosing a hospital:

* **Travel Distance:** The distance to the hospital can significantly impact the patient's and their family's lives.
* **Transportation:** Consider the availability of transportation options, especially for patients who cannot drive themselves.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews and testimonials to get insights into the patient experience at different hospitals.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Communication:** Assess the hospital's communication with patients and their families.

**ER Wait Times: A Caveat**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergencies. However, wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the number of patients seeking care. It is best to contact the hospital directly or check their website for the most up-to-date information.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Manteo (ZIP code 27974) facing a lung cancer diagnosis, the healthcare landscape requires careful navigation. The Outer Banks Hospital provides local emergency and diagnostic services. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers regional care. Vidant Medical Center in Greenville is a more comprehensive option. Duke and UNC, while requiring longer travel, offer premier cancer care with advanced treatments and specialized expertise. Patients should prioritize hospitals with multidisciplinary cancer centers, experienced specialists, and access to clinical trials. Telehealth and supportive services are also important. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the stage of the cancer. Thorough research and consultation with healthcare professionals are essential to making an informed decision.