28511, Atlantic, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28511, Atlantic, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28511**

This review examines the landscape of lung cancer care for residents near ZIP code 28511 (Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, North Carolina), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis considers factors crucial to patients facing this serious diagnosis, including hospital ratings, wait times, specialty centers, and the availability of telehealth options.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. Proximity is a significant factor, but the quality of care, expertise of specialists, and access to advanced technologies are paramount. This review highlights key facilities within a reasonable radius of 28511, offering insights to aid informed decision-making.

**Key Hospitals and Their Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website provides a valuable resource for assessing hospital quality. CMS assigns star ratings, ranging from one to five stars, based on various quality measures. These ratings offer a general overview of a hospital's performance, though they should be considered alongside other factors.

**Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**

As a military medical facility, NMCCL serves a significant portion of the population in and around 28511. While CMS star ratings are not directly applicable to military hospitals, NMCCL is accredited by The Joint Commission, indicating adherence to quality standards. NMCCL offers comprehensive medical services, including cancer care. Patients should inquire about the specific lung cancer services available, including access to specialists and treatment options. The hospital is a crucial resource for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington, NC)**

Located approximately an hour's drive from 28511, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) is a major regional hospital. NHRMC consistently receives a good CMS star rating. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, the Zimmer Cancer Institute, which offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services. NHRMC is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, including radiation therapy and surgical suites. Patients can expect to receive comprehensive care, including access to clinical trials and supportive services.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC)**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, located further inland, is another option for residents of the area. The hospital generally receives a good CMS star rating. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a cancer center that provides a range of services. Patients should investigate the specifics of the lung cancer program, including the availability of specialists and treatment options.

**Understanding ER Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times can be a crucial factor, especially for patients experiencing acute symptoms. While wait times fluctuate, understanding the average wait times at nearby hospitals can help patients plan accordingly. Data on ER wait times can be found on websites like Hospital Compare and third-party sources. Patients should be aware that wait times can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Hospitals with dedicated cancer centers and specialized programs often offer a higher level of expertise. These centers typically have teams of pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists who collaborate to provide comprehensive care.

**The Zimmer Cancer Institute at NHRMC**

The Zimmer Cancer Institute at NHRMC is a notable example of a specialty center. It offers a range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The institute emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring that patients receive coordinated care from a team of experts. The institute also often participates in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatment options.

**Thoracic Surgery and Surgical Oncology**

The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is crucial for patients who require surgery. Hospitals should be evaluated based on the experience and expertise of their surgical teams. Patients should inquire about the number of lung cancer surgeries performed annually, as well as the surgeons' specific training and experience.

**Radiation Oncology**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for lung cancer. Hospitals with advanced radiation therapy equipment and experienced radiation oncologists are essential. Patients should inquire about the types of radiation therapy offered, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy**

Medical oncologists specialize in the use of chemotherapy and other systemic therapies to treat cancer. Patients should seek out hospitals with experienced medical oncologists who are familiar with the latest treatment protocols. The availability of chemotherapy infusion centers and supportive care services is also important.

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective lung cancer treatment. Hospitals should have access to advanced diagnostic tools, including:

* **Computed Tomography (CT) Scans:** CT scans are used to visualize the lungs and detect tumors.
* **Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans:** PET scans can help determine if cancer has spread.
* **Bronchoscopy:** Bronchoscopy allows doctors to examine the airways and obtain tissue samples.
* **Biopsy:** Biopsies are used to confirm the diagnosis of lung cancer and determine the type of cancer.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility issues. Telehealth can be used for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients' health.

**Telehealth Availability at NHRMC**

NHRMC has expanded its telehealth services in recent years. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options for lung cancer care, including virtual consultations with specialists and remote monitoring programs. Telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Supportive Services**

Lung cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Hospitals should offer a range of supportive services, including:

* **Support Groups:** Support groups provide patients with a safe space to share their experiences and connect with others who are facing similar challenges.
* **Counseling:** Counseling services can help patients cope with the emotional impact of cancer.
* **Nutrition Counseling:** Nutrition counseling can help patients maintain their strength and energy during treatment.
* **Palliative Care:** Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses.

**Clinical Trials**

Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatment options. Hospitals with active research programs often participate in clinical trials. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at their chosen hospital.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a critical factor, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling. Patients should consider the distance to the hospital, the availability of public transportation, and the availability of parking.

**Financial Considerations**

The cost of lung cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about the hospital's billing practices and the availability of financial assistance programs.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 28511, the healthcare landscape offers a range of options for lung cancer care. NMCCL provides a crucial resource for military personnel and their families. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center are key regional hospitals with dedicated cancer centers. Patients should carefully consider the factors discussed in this review, including hospital ratings, specialty centers, telehealth options, and accessibility, to make informed decisions about their care. Regular consultations with healthcare providers are essential for personalized guidance and the best possible outcomes.