28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care in the Coastal Carolinas: A Hospital Review for the 28425 Area**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital, with its specialized resources and experienced medical teams, is a critical first step. This review focuses on hospitals near the 28425 ZIP code (Burgaw, North Carolina), evaluating their lung cancer care capabilities, including factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a clear, fact-based assessment to aid in informed decision-making.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Accessibility**

The 28425 ZIP code is situated in Pender County, North Carolina, placing residents within a reasonable driving distance of hospitals in Wilmington (New Hanover County) and Jacksonville (Onslow County). This review prioritizes hospitals within a 50-mile radius, acknowledging that patients may travel further for specialized care.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Measure of Overall Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals, offering a general indicator of overall quality. These ratings consider factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) – Wilmington:** This is the largest hospital in the region and a major referral center. As of the latest available data, NHRMC holds a [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here – *Note: This information changes frequently and must be verified on the CMS website*]. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various metrics. NHRMC houses a comprehensive cancer center, which is vital for lung cancer patients.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital – Jacksonville:** Located in Onslow County, Onslow Memorial Hospital is another option. [Insert Current CMS Star Rating Here – *Note: This information changes frequently and must be verified on the CMS website*]. While smaller than NHRMC, it offers essential services and may be a convenient option for residents in the eastern part of the region.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant factor, especially for patients experiencing symptoms related to lung cancer or its treatment. Shorter wait times can indicate better efficiency and potentially faster access to critical care.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** ER wait times at NHRMC can fluctuate. [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time Here – *Note: This information changes frequently and must be verified on sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals*]. It is crucial to check the most recent data.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** ER wait times at Onslow Memorial Hospital are also subject to change. [Insert Current Average ER Wait Time Here – *Note: This information changes frequently and must be verified on sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals*].

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Programs: Expertise and Resources**

The presence of specialized centers and dedicated lung cancer programs is a key indicator of a hospital's commitment to providing comprehensive care. These programs often involve multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** NHRMC's cancer center is a significant asset for lung cancer patients. It offers a range of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, surgical options (including minimally invasive techniques), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. The hospital's affiliation with [Insert Any Affiliations or Partnerships Here, e.g., a major cancer research institution] could provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Verify if NHRMC has a dedicated lung cancer program with a multidisciplinary team.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Onslow Memorial Hospital also provides cancer care services. Investigate whether it has a dedicated lung cancer program, including the availability of specialized physicians and treatment options. Determine if the hospital has affiliations with larger cancer centers that could offer access to additional expertise or clinical trials.

**Diagnostic Capabilities: Imaging and Staging**

Accurate diagnosis and staging are essential for effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should have access to advanced imaging technologies.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Confirm the availability of advanced imaging modalities, such as:
* **Computed Tomography (CT) Scans:** For detailed images of the lungs and surrounding structures.
* **Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans:** To detect cancer cells and assess the extent of the disease.
* **Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):** For specific cases, such as assessing spread to the brain.
* **Bronchoscopy:** To visualize the airways and obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
* **Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS):** A minimally invasive technique to sample lymph nodes.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Verify the availability of similar imaging capabilities at Onslow Memorial Hospital.

**Surgical Options: Expertise in Thoracic Surgery**

Thoracic surgeons specialize in surgery of the chest, including the lungs. The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is crucial for patients who may require surgical intervention.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Research the number of thoracic surgeons on staff at NHRMC and their experience. Inquire about the types of surgical procedures offered, including:
* **Lobectomy:** Removal of a lobe of the lung.
* **Pneumonectomy:** Removal of an entire lung.
* **Wedge Resection:** Removal of a small portion of the lung.
* **Minimally Invasive Techniques (e.g., VATS):** To reduce recovery time.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Determine the availability of thoracic surgeons and the range of surgical options at Onslow Memorial Hospital.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy:**

Medical oncologists specialize in the medical treatment of cancer, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Investigate the medical oncology services available at NHRMC. Confirm the availability of:
* **Chemotherapy regimens:** For various types and stages of lung cancer.
* **Targeted therapies:** Drugs that target specific cancer cells.
* **Immunotherapy:** Drugs that boost the body's immune system to fight cancer.
* **Infusion centers:** For administering chemotherapy and other medications.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Research the medical oncology services available at Onslow Memorial Hospital.

**Radiation Oncology: Precise Treatment Delivery**

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Confirm the availability of radiation oncology services at NHRMC. Investigate the types of radiation therapy offered, including:
* **External Beam Radiation Therapy:** Delivering radiation from outside the body.
* **Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT):** Precise targeting of the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
* **Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT):** High doses of radiation delivered in a few sessions.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Determine the availability of radiation oncology services at Onslow Memorial Hospital.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Investigate the telehealth options offered by NHRMC for lung cancer patients. Determine if they offer:
* **Virtual consultations:** With oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists.
* **Remote patient monitoring:** To track vital signs and symptoms.
* **Support groups and educational resources:** Available online.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Research the telehealth services available at Onslow Memorial Hospital.

**Patient Support Services: Comprehensive Care Beyond Treatment**

Comprehensive lung cancer care extends beyond medical treatments. Hospitals should offer support services to address the physical, emotional, and practical needs of patients and their families.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Inquire about the availability of:
* **Nurse navigators:** To guide patients through the healthcare system.
* **Support groups:** For patients and their families.
* **Counseling services:** To address emotional distress.
* **Social work services:** To assist with practical needs, such as financial assistance and transportation.
* **Palliative care services:** To manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Determine the availability of similar support services at Onslow Memorial Hospital.

**Clinical Trials: Access to Innovative Therapies**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** Investigate whether NHRMC participates in lung cancer clinical trials. If so, inquire about the types of trials available and the eligibility criteria.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Determine if Onslow Memorial Hospital participates in clinical trials.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer care is a deeply personal decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating the hospitals near the 28425 ZIP code. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital when making their choice. It is essential to consult with your primary care physician and other healthcare providers to determine the best course of action. Remember to verify all data, as hospital information is constantly evolving.