28383, Rowland, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28383, Rowland, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Shadow of Fort Bragg: A Review of Hospitals Near 28383

The area surrounding Spring Lake, North Carolina (ZIP code 28383), home to a significant military population and a growing civilian populace, necessitates robust healthcare infrastructure. For individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis, access to specialized care, cutting-edge treatments, and experienced medical teams is paramount. This review examines the leading hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Considerations for Lung Cancer Patients**

Lung cancer is a complex disease requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Successful treatment often involves pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses. Patients should seek hospitals with a proven track record in lung cancer care, including access to advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans, bronchoscopy, and PET scans. Furthermore, hospitals offering a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy, are crucial.

**Cape Fear Valley Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Cape Fear Valley Health System, with its flagship hospital, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, is a major healthcare provider in the region. Located in Fayetteville, a short drive from Spring Lake, it serves a large patient population. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center holds a respectable three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not a top-tier rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of quality and patient safety.

Cape Fear Valley Health System offers a comprehensive cancer program, including services for lung cancer. They have a dedicated oncology unit and employ medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical specialists. The hospital provides diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, specific details regarding their lung cancer survival rates, participation in clinical trials, and the availability of advanced treatment modalities like robotic-assisted surgery require further investigation.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing complications related to their cancer treatment. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it's important to consider that longer wait times can potentially delay critical care. Patients should inquire about average wait times at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and other hospitals under consideration.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital: A Focus on Quality**

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, located in Pinehurst, NC, is another significant healthcare provider within a reasonable driving distance of Spring Lake. Moore Regional consistently earns higher CMS star ratings than Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, often receiving four or five stars, indicating a stronger commitment to quality and patient safety.

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital's FirstHealth Cancer Center offers a comprehensive cancer program, including services for lung cancer. They boast a multidisciplinary team of specialists and provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options. They are known for their commitment to patient-centered care and their participation in clinical trials, which can offer patients access to cutting-edge therapies. Their website and publications often highlight their lung cancer program's outcomes, including survival rates and patient satisfaction scores.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Technology:**

Moore Regional Hospital often features specialized centers, such as a lung nodule clinic or a thoracic surgery program. These centers can provide focused expertise and streamlined care for lung cancer patients. Furthermore, the hospital typically invests in advanced technology, such as robotic-assisted surgical systems, which can offer minimally invasive treatment options.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Hospitals like Moore Regional have expanded their telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and support groups. These services can improve access to care and enhance patient convenience.

**Duke Health: A Premier Option (with Travel Considerations)**

Duke University Hospital in Durham, NC, is a nationally recognized center of excellence for cancer care. While a longer drive from Spring Lake, Duke offers unparalleled expertise and access to cutting-edge treatments. Duke University Hospital consistently receives five-star ratings from CMS and is renowned for its advanced cancer research and clinical trials.

Duke's Thoracic Oncology Program is a leader in lung cancer treatment, offering a full spectrum of services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Their specialists are highly experienced, and they often participate in groundbreaking research. However, patients should consider the travel time and the potential challenges of navigating a large academic medical center.

**UNC Health: Another Leading Academic Center**

UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, NC, is another premier academic medical center within a reasonable driving distance. UNC Health also offers a comprehensive cancer program, with a dedicated lung cancer team. They boast a strong research program and access to advanced treatment options. UNC's reputation for quality and innovation makes it a viable option for lung cancer patients. However, similar to Duke, the travel distance and the complexity of a large academic center must be considered.

**Comparing the Options: A Practical Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment involves a careful evaluation of several factors. Patients should consider:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a general indication of quality and patient safety.
* **Specialty Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers or thoracic surgery programs.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers a full range of treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge therapies.
* **Telehealth Services:** Consider the availability of telehealth options for consultations and remote monitoring.
* **ER Wait Times:** Assess the average wait times in the emergency room.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Seek out patient experiences and reviews to gain insights into the quality of care.
* **Proximity and Travel Considerations:** Factor in the distance to the hospital and the ease of access.

**Specific Questions to Ask:**

When researching hospitals, patients should ask specific questions, such as:

* What are the hospital's lung cancer survival rates?
* Does the hospital offer robotic-assisted surgery?
* What types of clinical trials are available?
* What is the average ER wait time?
* What telehealth services are available?
* What support services are offered to patients and their families?

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For residents of the 28383 ZIP code, the best options for lung cancer care include Cape Fear Valley Health System, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, and, for those willing to travel, Duke Health and UNC Health. Each hospital offers unique strengths and weaknesses. By carefully evaluating these factors, considering individual needs and preferences, and consulting with their primary care physician and oncologists, patients can make an informed decision about where to receive their lung cancer treatment. The journey through lung cancer is challenging, but with access to quality care, patients can increase their chances of a positive outcome.