28529, Grantsboro, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28529, Grantsboro, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28529)**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Choosing the right hospital is a critical first step. This review provides a fact-based assessment of healthcare options near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28529), focusing on lung cancer care, including key metrics, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Proximity is a significant factor, but quality of care is paramount. We'll examine hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like diagnostic capabilities, treatment options (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy), and access to clinical trials. Patient outcomes, physician expertise, and overall patient experience are also crucial.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

The closest major medical center is **Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune** (NMCCL). As a military treatment facility, access is primarily for eligible beneficiaries. However, NMCCL plays a vital role in the region's healthcare ecosystem. NMCCL offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging and oncology consultations. Patient satisfaction data is generally available through the Department of Defense. Due to its unique patient population, CMS star ratings are not directly applicable.

**Outlying Hospitals: Exploring Options**

Several hospitals outside of Jacksonville offer lung cancer care. These facilities may be a good option for those who are not eligible for care at NMCCL.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) (Wilmington, NC):** Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Jacksonville, NHRMC is a significant regional healthcare provider. NHRMC has a strong reputation for cancer care, including lung cancer treatment.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NHRMC has a 3-star CMS rating, indicating an average level of overall quality. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Specialty Centers:** NHRMC features a comprehensive cancer center, offering multidisciplinary care. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive services.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** NHRMC provides advanced diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, PET scans, and bronchoscopy. These are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** NHRMC offers a full spectrum of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. They also participate in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check the hospital's website or a third-party source like ERWaitTimes.com for the most up-to-date information.
* **Telehealth:** NHRMC has expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC):** Located approximately 80 miles northwest of Jacksonville, Vidant Medical Center is a large, tertiary care center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center has a 2-star CMS rating, indicating below-average performance.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vidant Medical Center has a cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach to lung cancer care.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Vidant Medical Center provides advanced diagnostic imaging.
* **Treatment Options:** Vidant Medical Center offers a range of lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Checking the hospital's website or a third-party source is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** Vidant Medical Center has telehealth capabilities for certain services.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC):** Located approximately 80 miles west of Jacksonville, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is another option for lung cancer care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating.
* **Specialty Centers:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a cancer center.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center provides diagnostic imaging.
* **Treatment Options:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers a range of lung cancer treatments.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary. Checking the hospital's website or a third-party source is recommended.
* **Telehealth:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has telehealth capabilities.

**Assessing Key Metrics: Beyond Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings are a useful starting point, but they don't tell the whole story. It's essential to consider other metrics:

* **Survival Rates:** Look for hospitals that report their lung cancer survival rates. These rates can vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the treatment provided.
* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists at each hospital. Board certification is a good indicator of expertise.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Review patient testimonials and satisfaction surveys. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report often provide this information.
* **Access to Clinical Trials:** Clinical trials offer access to the latest treatments. Inquire about the hospital's participation in clinical trials.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Lung cancer care often requires a team of specialists. Look for hospitals that offer a multidisciplinary approach, with oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists working together.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare. It can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services. When evaluating hospitals, consider their telehealth capabilities:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Do they offer virtual consultations with oncologists and other specialists?
* **Remote Monitoring:** Do they use remote monitoring technologies to track patients' progress?
* **Patient Education:** Do they provide online resources and educational materials?

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

ER wait times can be a significant factor, especially in emergencies. While this review does not provide real-time wait times, it is important to check the most recent data from each hospital.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for lung cancer treatment is a personal decision. Consider the following steps:

1. **Consult with your primary care physician:** They can provide recommendations and help you navigate the healthcare system.
2. **Research hospitals:** Use the information in this review and other sources to gather information about hospitals in your area.
3. **Schedule consultations:** Meet with oncologists and other specialists at the hospitals you are considering.
4. **Ask questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about treatment options, survival rates, and patient support services.
5. **Trust your instincts:** Choose the hospital and healthcare team that you feel most comfortable with.

**Conclusion**

The Jacksonville, NC area offers several options for lung cancer care. NHRMC in Wilmington and Vidant Medical Center in Greenville are the most prominent options outside of NMCCL. Thorough research, including a review of CMS star ratings, specialty center offerings, diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities, is crucial. By carefully considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for their needs. This review provides a starting point for this important process.