27983, Windsor, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 27983, Windsor, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near You: A Deep Dive for ZIP Code 27983**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Access to quality healthcare, particularly specialized lung cancer care, is paramount. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals offering lung cancer services in and around ZIP code 27983 (Manteo, North Carolina), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

Residents of Manteo, NC, are primarily served by hospitals in the Outer Banks region and slightly further afield in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area. The geography dictates that proximity is a crucial factor, but quality of care remains the ultimate priority. Driving distances should be considered when factoring in treatment schedules and follow-up appointments.

**The Outer Banks Hospital: A Community Hub**

The Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head, NC, is a key healthcare provider for the region. While not a designated flagship cancer center, it offers a range of services relevant to lung cancer patients. This includes diagnostic imaging (CT scans, X-rays), laboratory services, and potentially some chemotherapy and supportive care. The hospital's CMS star rating, a government-provided measure of overall hospital quality, is a critical indicator. As of the latest publicly available data, the Outer Banks Hospital's star rating should be checked on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most current information. This rating considers factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Sentara Healthcare: Expanding Options**

Sentara Healthcare, with its presence in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, offers additional options. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a major regional medical center. It is a Level I trauma center and has a strong reputation for specialty care. Its cancer services, including lung cancer treatment, are likely to be more comprehensive than those offered at The Outer Banks Hospital. Sentara has a network of facilities, and the specifics of lung cancer care would vary by location. The CMS star rating for Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, as with any hospital, should be checked on the CMS website for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Comprehensive Cancer Care**

For advanced lung cancer cases, patients often require access to specialized cancer centers. These centers offer a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists.

**Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) and Sentara Cancer Institute**

The Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) in Norfolk, VA, is a teaching hospital affiliated with Sentara Healthcare. The Sentara Cancer Institute offers comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. This often involves clinical trials, advanced imaging techniques, and cutting-edge therapies. Patients seeking complex treatments or second opinions might consider EVMS/Sentara.

**Duke Health: A Regional Powerhouse (Consider Distance)**

While located further away, Duke University Hospital in Durham, NC, is a nationally recognized cancer center. It is consistently ranked among the best hospitals in the United States for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report. Duke offers a full spectrum of lung cancer services, including advanced surgical techniques, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials. The distance from Manteo (approximately 200 miles) is a significant consideration, but the level of expertise and access to innovative treatments might be a compelling factor for some patients.

**Understanding Key Metrics: ER Wait Times and More**

Several metrics are crucial when evaluating hospitals.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times are a good indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle urgent situations. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources provide data on average ER wait times for hospitals. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, especially in emergencies. This data is readily available on the CMS website and hospital websites.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:** Lung cancer treatment requires a team of specialists. Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer programs, multidisciplinary tumor boards (where specialists collaborate on treatment plans), and experienced thoracic surgeons.

**Technology and Treatment Options:** The availability of advanced imaging technologies (PET scans, advanced CT scanners), minimally invasive surgical techniques (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery – VATS), and the latest chemotherapy and immunotherapy drugs are essential.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:** Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and managing side effects. Check which hospitals offer telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring, and virtual support groups.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations**

Confirm that the hospitals you are considering accept your health insurance plan. Investigate the hospital's financial assistance programs and understand the potential out-of-pocket costs for treatment.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Lung cancer treatment often involves complex decisions.

**Surgical Options:** Thoracic surgeons specializing in lung cancer perform procedures such as lobectomies (removal of a lobe of the lung), pneumonectomies (removal of an entire lung), and minimally invasive techniques.

**Radiation Therapy:** Radiation oncologists use targeted radiation to kill cancer cells.

**Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy:** Medical oncologists administer chemotherapy and immunotherapy drugs.

**Clinical Trials:** Consider clinical trials, which offer access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Supportive Care:** Access to supportive care services, such as palliative care, pain management, and psychosocial support, is critical for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

**Additional Data Points to Consider**

* **Patient Satisfaction Scores:** Review patient satisfaction surveys (available on hospital websites and through CMS) to gauge patient experiences.
* **Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons, which indicates a commitment to quality cancer care.
* **Survival Rates:** While survival rates can be complex to interpret, they can provide a general indication of a hospital's success in treating lung cancer. Look for publicly available data from sources like the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

**Making Your Decision**

The best hospital for you will depend on your individual circumstances, including the stage and type of your lung cancer, your overall health, your insurance coverage, and your personal preferences. It's essential to consult with your primary care physician and a pulmonologist to get a referral to a qualified oncologist.

**Disclaimer:** *This review provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.* *Hospital data and ratings are subject to change. Always verify the most current information from official sources (CMS, hospital websites).*