28527, Ernul, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28527, Ernul, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28527): A Deep Dive

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Access to quality care, particularly in the vicinity of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28527), is paramount. This review analyzes available options, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to provide a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Jacksonville area, while not a major metropolitan hub, offers a range of healthcare facilities. Proximity to larger cities like Wilmington and Raleigh expands the options, but travel time and accessibility become significant considerations. This review prioritizes facilities within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in the needs of patients undergoing treatment and follow-up care.

**The Importance of CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare program provides a valuable, albeit imperfect, tool for evaluating hospital quality. CMS assigns star ratings (one to five stars) based on various quality measures, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency. These ratings offer a quick snapshot of overall performance.

**Navigating Local Options:**

**Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL):** Located directly in Jacksonville, NHCL is a primary care facility for military personnel and their families. While it offers some specialty services, including oncology, the scope of lung cancer treatment might be limited compared to civilian hospitals. Access is restricted to eligible beneficiaries. CMS does not provide star ratings for military hospitals.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (OMH):** Onslow Memorial Hospital, also in Jacksonville, is a key healthcare provider for the local community. OMH has a 3-star rating from CMS, indicating average performance. This rating is based on a variety of factors, including patient experience, safety, and timely and effective care. OMH's oncology department provides cancer care services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The hospital's ER wait times are a crucial factor. Data from CMS indicates that the average ER wait time is around 30-45 minutes, which is a reasonable timeframe. However, wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day and patient volume.

**Expanding the Scope: Wilmington and Beyond:**

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) (Wilmington):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville, NHRMC is a larger, more comprehensive facility. NHRMC has a 4-star rating from CMS, suggesting a higher level of overall quality compared to OMH. NHRMC's Zimmer Cancer Institute offers advanced cancer care, including a dedicated lung cancer program. This program likely includes access to specialized pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. NHRMC has a robust telehealth program, potentially offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for patients living outside Wilmington. ER wait times at NHRMC are typically longer than at OMH, often averaging 45-60 minutes.

**UNC Health Southeastern (Lumberton):** Approximately an hour and a half from Jacksonville, UNC Health Southeastern is another option. UNC Health Southeastern has a 3-star rating from CMS. UNC Health Southeastern has an oncology department. ER wait times are typically in the 45-60 minute range.

**Key Considerations: Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

The presence of specialized lung cancer centers is a critical factor. These centers typically bring together a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and support staff (nurses, social workers, etc.). These teams work collaboratively to develop individualized treatment plans.

**Thoracic Surgery:** The availability of experienced thoracic surgeons is vital for patients requiring surgical intervention. These surgeons specialize in procedures related to the chest, including lung resections.

**Medical Oncology:** Medical oncologists are crucial in the treatment of lung cancer, managing chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.

**Radiation Oncology:** Radiation oncologists use radiation therapy to treat lung cancer, often in conjunction with other treatments.

**Pulmonology:** Pulmonologists diagnose and manage lung diseases, including lung cancer. They are often involved in the initial diagnosis and staging of the disease.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance:**

Telehealth capabilities are increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to specialists, facilitate follow-up appointments, and reduce the need for frequent travel. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs often offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education resources.

**Evaluating ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of hospital efficiency and patient access. Long wait times can be stressful and delay critical care. CMS data and publicly available information provide insights into average ER wait times, but these figures can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume.

**Specifics on Lung Cancer Treatment:**

**Staging:** Accurate staging of lung cancer is essential for determining the appropriate treatment plan. This involves imaging tests (CT scans, PET scans), biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures.

**Treatment Modalities:** Lung cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors.

**Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and improve outcomes. Hospitals with research programs often offer clinical trials for lung cancer patients.

**Support Services:** Comprehensive cancer care includes support services such as counseling, support groups, and palliative care. These services help patients and their families cope with the emotional and physical challenges of cancer.

**Comparing Hospitals: A Hypothetical Scenario:**

Imagine a patient diagnosed with Stage IIIA non-small cell lung cancer. The patient lives in Jacksonville.

* **NHCL:** Limited options, primarily for eligible beneficiaries.
* **OMH:** Offers local access to oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation. ER wait times are relatively reasonable. The 3-star CMS rating suggests average quality.
* **NHRMC:** The Zimmer Cancer Institute offers a more comprehensive lung cancer program with a dedicated team of specialists. A 4-star CMS rating indicates higher overall quality. The telehealth program could reduce travel burden. ER wait times are longer.
* **UNC Health Southeastern:** Offers oncology services. ER wait times are comparable to NHRMC. The 3-star CMS rating suggests average quality.

**Conclusion:**

For lung cancer patients near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28527), the best options likely involve a balance of proximity, quality of care, and specialized expertise. Onslow Memorial Hospital provides local access, while New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington offers a more comprehensive program with a higher CMS star rating and advanced services. The decision ultimately rests on individual needs, preferences, and the recommendations of the patient's healthcare team. The patient should consider the expertise of the specialists, the availability of support services, and the hospital's telehealth capabilities. Thorough research and consultation with medical professionals are essential for making informed decisions about lung cancer care.