28377, Red Springs, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28377, Red Springs, North Carolina is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28377

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is daunting. Access to quality care, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, is paramount. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 28377 (Raeford, North Carolina), focusing on their capacity to provide comprehensive lung cancer services. This analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a snapshot of the available resources.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Raeford, North Carolina, is a relatively rural area. The availability of specialized medical care can be limited. Residents often rely on hospitals in larger nearby cities for advanced treatments. This review will consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in the potential need for frequent visits for treatment and monitoring.

**Key Hospitals and Their Offerings**

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC):** Located approximately 20 miles from Raeford, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a major regional hospital. It’s a large facility offering a broad range of services. While the hospital's overall CMS star rating fluctuates, it is generally a three-star hospital, indicating average performance. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures.

Cape Fear Valley has a dedicated cancer center, the Cape Fear Valley Cancer Center. This center offers radiation oncology, medical oncology, and surgical oncology services. They also have a lung cancer screening program, crucial for early detection. The availability of a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is a significant advantage. ER wait times can vary, so it’s essential to check current wait times on their website or through platforms like Google before arriving.

**Duke University Hospital (Durham, NC):** While a further drive (approximately 80 miles), Duke University Hospital is a nationally recognized center for cancer care. Duke consistently receives high ratings, often boasting a five-star CMS rating. Their cancer program is exceptionally strong, with a dedicated lung cancer program offering cutting-edge treatments, including clinical trials.

Duke's thoracic surgery department is highly regarded, employing advanced surgical techniques. They also have a robust radiation oncology department. Their lung cancer program offers comprehensive services, including genetic testing, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The hospital has a comprehensive telehealth program, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be especially beneficial for patients living further away. ER wait times at Duke can be longer due to its high patient volume, but they are generally well-equipped to handle complex cases.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill, NC):** Located approximately 70 miles from Raeford, UNC Medical Center is another leading academic medical center. It is consistently ranked among the best hospitals in the nation. UNC has a comprehensive cancer center, the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, which is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center. This designation signifies a commitment to research and advanced cancer care.

UNC’s lung cancer program offers a full spectrum of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and innovative therapies. They have a strong focus on clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. UNC also has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring. ER wait times at UNC can vary, so checking current wait times is recommended.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Clinics**

Smaller community hospitals in the area, such as those in Lumberton or Southern Pines, may offer some basic cancer services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, they may not have the same level of specialized expertise or access to advanced treatments as the larger hospitals. These facilities can be valuable for initial consultations, supportive care, and follow-up appointments, but patients with complex cases may need to be referred to a larger center.

**Specialized Centers and Programs**

The presence of specialized centers within a hospital is a key indicator of its commitment to lung cancer care. These centers often bring together multidisciplinary teams to provide coordinated care. Look for hospitals with:

* **Lung Cancer Screening Programs:** These programs offer low-dose CT scans to detect lung cancer early in high-risk individuals.
* **Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards:** These boards bring together pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists to discuss individual patient cases and develop treatment plans.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials provides access to the latest research and innovative therapies.
* **Supportive Care Services:** These services, including palliative care, pain management, and psychosocial support, are essential for managing the physical and emotional challenges of lung cancer.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. It allows patients to receive consultations, follow-up appointments, and education from the comfort of their homes. Look for hospitals with:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Telehealth platforms for initial consultations and follow-up appointments.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Systems for monitoring vital signs and symptoms remotely.
* **Patient Portals:** Online portals that provide access to medical records, test results, and communication with the care team.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in an emergency. It's essential to check current wait times before going to the ER. Several online platforms and hospital websites provide real-time wait time information. Be aware that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and the ease of travel.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of specialized centers and programs.
* **Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the medical team.
* **Technology:** The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient experiences and reviews can provide valuable insights.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its services are covered by your insurance plan.

**Conclusion**

Residents near ZIP code 28377 have access to a range of hospitals for lung cancer care. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers local options, while Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center provide comprehensive, nationally recognized programs. Choosing the right hospital requires careful consideration of individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Thorough research, consultation with your primary care physician, and a clear understanding of the available resources are crucial steps in navigating this challenging journey. Remember to inquire about specific services, treatment options, and support programs offered by each hospital. Early detection and access to quality care are paramount in improving outcomes for lung cancer patients.