Lung Cancer Score

28554, Maury, North Carolina Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

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Health Scores

Hospital Score in 28554, Maury, North Carolina

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 28554, Maury, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 28554, Maury, North Carolina

Lung Cancer Score 95
People Score 90
Provider Score 94
Hospital Score 51
Travel Score 44

Hospital Score Review of 28554, Maury, North Carolina

## Lung Cancer Care in Jacksonville, NC: A Comprehensive Review for ZIP Code 28554

Residents of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28554) seeking top-tier lung cancer care have several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review delves into the key players in the region, examining factors crucial for informed decision-making, from hospital ratings and wait times to specialized services and telehealth capabilities.

**Navigating the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Ratings**

The primary hospital serving Jacksonville is **Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune**, a military medical facility. While it doesn't receive a traditional CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating due to its unique structure, it provides care for active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees. Access to specialized oncology services at Camp Lejeune often involves referrals to larger military treatment facilities or civilian hospitals.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, NC**, approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville, is a major civilian hospital that serves as a regional referral center. NHRMC is a flagship hospital in the area. They have a 4-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a comprehensive assessment of quality, safety, and patient experience. NHRMC’s oncology program is well-regarded, offering a range of services including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, NC**, roughly a two-hour drive, is another option. Cape Fear Valley has a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates a generally adequate level of care, but patients should carefully consider their specific needs and compare them with the services offered at other facilities. Cape Fear Valley also has an oncology program, but its scope and resources may differ from those at NHRMC.

**Understanding the Numbers: ER Wait Times and Patient Experience**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially for individuals experiencing symptoms that may indicate lung cancer complications. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, data from CMS and other sources provide valuable insights. Generally, hospitals with higher CMS star ratings tend to have better performance in areas like ER wait times.

NHRMC, with its 4-star rating, typically reports ER wait times that are average for the region, often ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. Cape Fear Valley, with its 3-star rating, may have slightly longer wait times, potentially exceeding an hour. It is crucial to check current wait times using online tools or by calling the hospital directly before heading to the ER.

Patient experience is another essential consideration. CMS star ratings incorporate patient feedback, reflecting satisfaction with care, communication, and overall experience. Researching patient reviews on websites like Healthgrades or Vitals can provide additional insights into individual hospital experiences.

**Specialized Centers and Expertise: The Role of Oncology Programs**

Lung cancer care demands specialized expertise. Both NHRMC and Cape Fear Valley have dedicated oncology programs. NHRMC's program is generally considered more comprehensive, offering a wider range of specialists, advanced technologies, and clinical trials. The hospital’s oncology program often provides access to multidisciplinary teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, and oncology nurses.

Cape Fear Valley's oncology program provides a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. However, patients seeking advanced treatments or clinical trials may need to travel to larger centers like NHRMC or Duke University Hospital.

**Advanced Technologies and Treatment Options**

The availability of advanced technologies is crucial in lung cancer care. Key technologies include:

* **Advanced Imaging:** CT scans, PET scans, and MRI are essential for diagnosis, staging, and monitoring treatment response.
* **Radiation Therapy:** Modern radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), offer precise targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
* **Surgical Techniques:** Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), can reduce recovery time and improve patient outcomes.

NHRMC is likely to have a more extensive range of advanced technologies compared to Cape Fear Valley. Patients should inquire about the specific technologies available at each hospital and whether they are up-to-date with the latest advancements.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and supportive care. Both NHRMC and Cape Fear Valley are likely to offer some telehealth services, though the extent of these services may vary.

Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations, reducing the need for frequent travel to the hospital. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups.

**Clinical Trials and Research Opportunities**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer care. Larger hospitals, such as NHRMC, are more likely to offer a wider range of clinical trials. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their oncologist.

**Financial Considerations and Insurance Coverage**

Navigating the financial aspects of cancer care can be complex. Patients should verify their insurance coverage and understand their out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance. Hospitals often have financial counselors who can assist patients with understanding their bills and exploring financial assistance options.

**Factors to Consider for Patients Near 28554**

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital is a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments and potential emergencies.
* **Specialized Services:** Assess the specific needs of the patient and determine which hospital offers the required services, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or access to clinical trials.
* **Hospital Ratings and Reviews:** Evaluate CMS star ratings, patient reviews, and other quality indicators to assess the overall quality of care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider ER wait times, especially if the patient experiences symptoms that require immediate attention.
* **Telehealth Options:** Explore the availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support.
* **Financial Considerations:** Understand insurance coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a critical decision. Residents of Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28554) should carefully weigh the factors discussed in this review, consult with their primary care physician, and seek recommendations from other healthcare professionals. Visiting each hospital's website, contacting their oncology departments, and asking detailed questions about their services, technologies, and patient support programs are essential steps in making an informed choice.

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Health Scores Near 28554, Maury, North Carolina

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Health Scores in 28554, Maury, North Carolina