Lung Cancer Score

28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

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Health Scores

Hospital Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina

Lung Cancer Score 53
People Score 67
Provider Score 39
Hospital Score 43
Travel Score 48

Hospital Score Review of 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina

## Lung Cancer Care in the Wilmington, NC Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 28465

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. The Wilmington, North Carolina area, specifically near the 28465 ZIP code, offers several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides a fact-based assessment to help patients navigate their choices, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**The Landscape: Key Players and General Considerations**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 28465 area are Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) and, to a lesser extent, Cape Fear Valley Health, though its primary presence is further inland. Smaller clinics and outpatient facilities also contribute to the overall care network. When evaluating hospitals, consider factors beyond proximity. Expertise in lung cancer treatment, access to advanced technologies, and a supportive multidisciplinary team are paramount.

**Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center: The Flagship and Its Challenges**

Novant Health NHRMC, located in Wilmington, is the largest hospital in the area and the most likely first point of contact for many patients. It is a Level II Trauma Center, indicating a high level of emergency care capability. However, its CMS star rating, a widely used metric for hospital quality, fluctuates. As of October 26, 2023, its overall CMS star rating is **3 stars**. This rating reflects a composite score based on various measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care. Patients should always review the most current CMS data, which can be found on the Medicare.gov website, for the most up-to-date assessment.

ER wait times at NHRMC can vary significantly. Data from third-party sources like ERwaitTimes.com suggest average wait times can fluctuate, often exceeding the national average. Patients experiencing severe symptoms should always call 911 or proceed directly to the emergency room. Understanding potential wait times is crucial, especially for those experiencing breathing difficulties or other acute lung cancer-related complications. NHRMC has made investments in its ER, but wait times remain a concern.

**Lung Cancer Specifics at NHRMC:**

NHRMC houses a cancer center, which is a critical element for lung cancer treatment. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient care. The availability of a dedicated lung cancer program, including support groups and patient navigators, is vital for comprehensive care. Patients should inquire specifically about the center's experience with lung cancer cases, the availability of clinical trials, and the use of advanced technologies like minimally invasive surgical techniques (e.g., VATS) and advanced radiation therapy (e.g., IMRT, SBRT).

**Telehealth and Digital Health at NHRMC:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for cancer patients, offering convenient access to follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. NHRMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The hospital's website and patient portal provide information on available telehealth services.

**Cape Fear Valley Health: A Peripheral Option**

While Cape Fear Valley Health's primary facilities are not located within the 28465 ZIP code, it does have a presence in the broader region. Patients may consider this option, particularly if they have established relationships with physicians within the Cape Fear Valley Health network. However, patients should carefully evaluate the travel time and accessibility to their facilities, as well as the specific lung cancer services offered. Information on Cape Fear Valley Health's CMS star rating and ER wait times is available on the Medicare.gov website and other public resources.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Technologies: What to Look For**

Beyond the general hospital ratings, patients should investigate the availability of specialized lung cancer services. These include:

* **Thoracic Surgery:** Experienced thoracic surgeons are essential for surgical interventions. Inquire about the surgeon's experience with VATS (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery), a minimally invasive technique that can lead to faster recovery times.
* **Radiation Oncology:** Access to advanced radiation therapy technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is crucial for precise tumor targeting and minimizing side effects.
* **Medical Oncology:** A skilled medical oncologist is responsible for chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. Patients should inquire about the oncologist's experience with the latest lung cancer treatments and clinical trials.
* **Pulmonology:** A pulmonologist specializes in lung diseases and can provide expertise in diagnosis, staging, and supportive care.
* **Interventional Pulmonology:** This subspecialty uses minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat lung conditions, including bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS).

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

Participation in clinical trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments. Patients should ask about the availability of clinical trials at the hospitals they are considering. Research participation can benefit both the individual patient and the broader lung cancer community.

**Patient Experience and Support Services:**

Patient experience is a critical factor. Consider:

* **Patient satisfaction scores:** Review patient reviews and satisfaction surveys available on websites like Healthgrades.com and Vitals.com.
* **Support services:** Look for support groups, patient navigators, and other resources to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of lung cancer.
* **Communication:** Assess the communication style of the medical team and the ease with which you can access information and ask questions.

**Financial Considerations:**

Healthcare costs can be a significant burden. Patients should:

* **Verify insurance coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Inquire about financial assistance:** Explore the availability of financial assistance programs offered by the hospital or cancer center.
* **Understand billing practices:** Ask about the hospital's billing practices and the potential for unexpected costs.

**The Bottom Line: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients near the 28465 ZIP code have a primary option in Novant Health NHRMC, but should not hesitate to consider other facilities, depending on their individual needs and preferences. Thorough research, including a review of CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center offerings, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews, is essential. Patients should actively engage with their healthcare providers, ask questions, and advocate for their own care. The best hospital is the one that provides the highest quality of care, the most advanced technologies, and the most supportive environment for each individual patient.

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Health Scores Near 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina

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Health Scores in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina