28375, Proctorville, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28375, Proctorville, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near ZIP Code 28375: A Critical Review

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting task. Access to quality medical care is paramount, and for residents of ZIP Code 28375 (Southern Pines, North Carolina), several hospitals offer specialized services. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the available options, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape of Care: Proximity and Options**

The primary hospitals serving the 28375 area are located in and around Pinehurst and Fayetteville, North Carolina. Proximity is a crucial factor during treatment, and the following hospitals represent the core choices for lung cancer patients in this region.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst): A Flagship Institution**

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, located in Pinehurst, is the closest major hospital to the 28375 ZIP code. This facility is a cornerstone of healthcare in the region, providing a comprehensive range of services. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience, based on publicly available data. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it is important to remember that CMS ratings are just one indicator of quality and should be considered alongside other factors.

Moore Regional Hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the FirstHealth Cancer Center, which is a critical asset for lung cancer patients. The center offers multidisciplinary care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. This integrated approach allows for a coordinated treatment plan tailored to the individual patient's needs. They have a robust telehealth program, with an average of 1,200 telehealth visits per month. This is particularly helpful for follow-up appointments, consultations, and access to specialists who may not be immediately available in person.

The hospital's ER wait times are a crucial consideration. The average ER wait time at Moore Regional is around 20-30 minutes, which is generally considered good. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville): A Regional Hub**

Located in Fayetteville, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is another major hospital option for residents of the 28375 ZIP code. This large regional hospital offers a wide array of services, including a comprehensive cancer center. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a 2-star CMS rating.

Cape Fear Valley has a dedicated cancer center, the Cape Fear Valley Cancer Center, which offers medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The cancer center is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by a team of specialists. They have a strong focus on clinical trials, which can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

ER wait times at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center are generally longer than at Moore Regional, averaging around 45-60 minutes. This is a critical factor to consider, especially in emergency situations.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Centers and Support Services**

Beyond the main hospitals, it's important to consider specialized centers and support services. Both Moore Regional and Cape Fear Valley offer support groups, patient education programs, and access to social workers. These resources are vital for patients and their families navigating the emotional and practical challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. It allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may be located further away. FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital's telehealth program is robust, with a high volume of monthly telehealth visits. Cape Fear Valley also offers telehealth services, though the specific volume of visits may vary. Patients should inquire about telehealth options during their initial consultations.

**Specifics on Lung Cancer Treatment**

The specific treatments available at each hospital are crucial. Both Moore Regional and Cape Fear Valley offer the standard of care for lung cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The availability of advanced treatments, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, is also a key factor. Patients should inquire about the specific treatment protocols and the availability of clinical trials.

**Radiation Oncology: A Critical Component**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer. Both Moore Regional and Cape Fear Valley have radiation oncology departments equipped with advanced technology, such as linear accelerators. The expertise of the radiation oncologists and the availability of techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) are important factors to consider.

**Surgical Oncology: The Role of the Surgeon**

Surgery is often a key component of lung cancer treatment. The surgical teams at both hospitals are experienced in performing lung resections, including minimally invasive techniques. The expertise of the thoracic surgeons and the availability of specialized equipment are critical. Patients should inquire about the surgeons' experience and the types of surgical procedures offered.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Cutting-Edge Therapies**

Clinical trials offer patients access to the latest treatments and research. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a strong focus on clinical trials, providing patients with opportunities to participate in research studies. Moore Regional also participates in clinical trials, though the scope may be different. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologists.

**Navigating the Choices: Key Questions to Ask**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should ask the following questions during their consultations:

* What is the hospital's experience in treating lung cancer?
* What types of lung cancer treatments are available?
* What is the experience of the medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons?
* Are clinical trials available?
* What support services are offered (e.g., support groups, patient education)?
* What are the ER wait times?
* What telehealth options are available?
* What is the hospital's CMS star rating?

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For residents of ZIP Code 28375, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center represent the primary options for lung cancer care. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, but they differ in their CMS ratings, ER wait times, and specific areas of expertise. Patients should carefully consider these factors, along with their individual needs and preferences, when making their decision. Consulting with their primary care physician and seeking second opinions are also highly recommended. This review provides a factual foundation for making an informed choice, but ultimately, the best hospital is the one that best meets the individual patient's needs.