28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28543)

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is a daunting journey. Finding the right hospital, with the best specialists and resources, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28543), assessing their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. We'll delve into key metrics, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings, to provide a comprehensive picture for patients and their families.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Scope**

Jacksonville, NC, is a military town, and the healthcare landscape reflects that. While the immediate area might not boast the largest, most specialized cancer centers, several hospitals offer crucial services and access to broader networks. Patients often travel to larger cities like Greenville, Raleigh, or Wilmington for advanced treatments. This review considers hospitals within a roughly 100-mile radius, balancing accessibility with the need for specialized care.

**Key Considerations: What Matters in Lung Cancer Care**

Effective lung cancer care demands a multidisciplinary approach. This includes early and accurate diagnosis, staging, and a personalized treatment plan. Key factors to consider when evaluating a hospital include:

* **Expertise:** Experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists are essential.
* **Technology:** Access to advanced imaging (CT scans, PET scans), minimally invasive surgical techniques, and radiation therapy options is critical.
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials offers patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research.
* **Support Services:** Comprehensive support, including oncology nurses, social workers, support groups, and palliative care, significantly impacts the patient experience.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) indicates a commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care.

**Hospital Profiles: A Closer Look**

**1. Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, NC):**

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located directly in Jacksonville, serves as the primary healthcare provider for the local community. While it is not a dedicated cancer center, it plays a vital role in initial diagnosis and stabilization. They offer diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, which are crucial for detecting lung abnormalities. They also provide access to pulmonologists and other specialists for initial consultations and referrals.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars. This rating reflects overall quality of care, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness.
* **ER Wait Times:** The average ER wait time at Onslow Memorial is generally in line with the national average. However, wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Patients should check the hospital's website or call ahead for real-time wait estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** While not a dedicated cancer center, Onslow Memorial has partnerships with larger cancer centers for specialized treatment.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth services are available for certain specialties, offering patients convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. Check with the hospital for the latest telehealth offerings.

**2. Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC):**

Located approximately 70 miles northwest of Jacksonville, Vidant Medical Center is a major regional referral center. It is the flagship hospital for Vidant Health, a large healthcare system in eastern North Carolina. Vidant offers a more comprehensive approach to cancer care, including a dedicated cancer center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Vidant can be longer than at smaller hospitals, particularly during peak hours. Check the hospital's website or call for real-time estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vidant has a comprehensive cancer center, offering a full range of services, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and access to clinical trials. They have experienced pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and a dedicated oncology team.
* **Telehealth:** Vidant Health has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring for cancer patients.

**3. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington, NC):**

Approximately 70 miles southeast of Jacksonville, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) is another major healthcare provider in the region. It offers a comprehensive cancer program and provides a wide range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at NHRMC can vary. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or call for real-time estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** NHRMC has a dedicated cancer center offering medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and access to clinical trials. They have a team of experienced specialists, including pulmonologists and thoracic surgeons.
* **Telehealth:** NHRMC offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**4. UNC Health Southeastern (Lumberton, NC):**

Approximately 80 miles west of Jacksonville, UNC Health Southeastern is a regional healthcare provider. It offers cancer care services, including diagnostic imaging, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at UNC Health Southeastern can vary. Check the hospital's website or call for real-time estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** UNC Health Southeastern has a cancer center offering medical oncology, radiation oncology, and access to clinical trials.
* **Telehealth:** UNC Health Southeastern offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**5. Duke Health (Durham, NC):**

While located further afield (approximately 150 miles northwest), Duke Health is a nationally recognized leader in cancer care. For patients seeking highly specialized treatments or access to cutting-edge clinical trials, Duke may be a viable option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Not directly available for the entire Duke Health system, but specific hospitals within the system may have ratings.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Duke can be longer, given its status as a major referral center. Check the hospital's website or call for real-time estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** Duke Cancer Institute is renowned for its expertise in all types of cancer, including lung cancer. They offer a full range of services, including advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy, and access to numerous clinical trials.
* **Telehealth:** Duke Health has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring.

**Analyzing the Data: Making Informed Choices**

The hospitals near Jacksonville, NC, offer varying levels of lung cancer care. Onslow Memorial provides essential initial services, while Vidant Medical Center, New Hanover Regional Medical Center, and UNC Health Southeastern offer more comprehensive cancer programs. Duke Health, while further away, provides access to highly specialized care.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially during a health crisis. Patients should always check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.

**CMS Star Ratings:** The CMS star ratings provide a general indication of quality. However, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as the hospital's specific expertise in lung cancer and the patient's individual needs.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, offering convenient access to consultations and follow-up care. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when choosing a hospital.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials is a significant advantage, offering patients the opportunity to benefit from the latest research and treatments. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologist.

**Making the Right Decision: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, the stage of their cancer, their insurance coverage, and their preferences. It is essential to:

* **Consult with your primary care physician:** They can provide referrals and guidance.
* **Research the hospitals:** Review their websites, read patient reviews, and check their accreditations.
* **Schedule consultations:** Meet with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists to discuss your treatment options.
* **Ask questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about the hospital's expertise, technology, support services, and clinical trial availability.

By carefully considering these factors, patients in the Jacksonville, NC, area can make informed decisions and find the best possible lung cancer care for their individual needs. The journey is challenging, but with the right team and resources, patients can navigate their diagnosis and treatment with confidence.