27893, Wilson, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27893, Wilson, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care Near Tarboro, NC (ZIP Code 27893): A Review

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires careful consideration, especially when choosing a healthcare provider. This review focuses on the hospitals and resources available near Tarboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27893), providing a fact-rich overview to assist in making informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The immediate vicinity of Tarboro offers limited options for comprehensive prostate cancer care. Residents will likely need to travel to larger cities for advanced treatment. Greenville, NC, approximately 30 miles east, emerges as a primary hub due to the presence of Vidant Medical Center. Raleigh, NC, around 90 miles west, provides access to larger academic medical centers.

**Vidant Medical Center, Greenville, NC:**

Vidant Medical Center, a flagship hospital for the Vidant Health system, is the closest major medical center. It's a Level 1 Trauma Center, offering a broad range of services, including oncology. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it’s important to check the most recent data on the Medicare.gov website. Vidant Medical Center houses a cancer center that is likely to offer prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment options.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Services at Vidant:**

Vidant Medical Center likely provides a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer care. This typically involves urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists collaborating on treatment plans. The hospital's website or a direct call to the cancer center can confirm specific offerings. Expect to find options like:

* **Diagnosis:** Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams, biopsies, and imaging (MRI, CT scans, bone scans).
* **Treatment:** Surgery (including robotic-assisted prostatectomy), radiation therapy (external beam radiation, brachytherapy), hormone therapy, chemotherapy (for advanced cases), and clinical trials.

**ER Wait Times at Vidant:**

Emergency room wait times are a key consideration. While specific real-time data fluctuates, checking websites like the hospital's or third-party sites like ERwaitTimes.com can provide estimates. Keep in mind that these are averages and individual wait times can vary significantly.

**Telehealth at Vidant:**

Vidant Health likely offers telehealth services, which can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. The hospital's website should detail available telehealth options, including how to schedule appointments and the types of services offered.

**UNC Health Rex Hospital, Raleigh, NC:**

For residents willing to travel, UNC Health Rex Hospital in Raleigh offers another option. It's a large, well-regarded hospital within the UNC Health system. Check the Medicare.gov website for the most up-to-date CMS star ratings.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Services at Rex:**

UNC Health Rex Hospital provides a comprehensive cancer center, potentially offering advanced prostate cancer care. This includes:

* **Diagnosis:** Advanced imaging, including MRI fusion biopsies.
* **Treatment:** Robotic-assisted surgery, advanced radiation therapy techniques (like intensity-modulated radiation therapy – IMRT), hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and access to clinical trials.

**UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center:**

The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill, part of the UNC Health system, is a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. It's a referral center for complex cases and clinical trials. While located further away, it offers access to cutting-edge research and treatment options.

**ER Wait Times at Rex:**

Similar to Vidant, check the hospital's website or third-party sites for estimated ER wait times at UNC Health Rex Hospital.

**Telehealth at Rex:**

UNC Health Rex Hospital likely offers telehealth services. Check the hospital’s website for details on available services and how to schedule appointments.

**WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh, NC:**

WakeMed Health & Hospitals, also in Raleigh, provides another option for prostate cancer care. Check the Medicare.gov website for the most recent CMS star ratings.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Services at WakeMed:**

WakeMed offers a cancer center with a multidisciplinary approach. Services likely include:

* **Diagnosis:** PSA testing, biopsies, and imaging.
* **Treatment:** Surgery (including robotic-assisted surgery), radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.

**ER Wait Times at WakeMed:**

Check the hospital's website or third-party sites for estimated ER wait times at WakeMed.

**Telehealth at WakeMed:**

WakeMed likely offers telehealth services. Check the hospital's website for details on available services and how to schedule appointments.

**Other Considerations:**

**Radiation Oncology:**

Radiation therapy is a common treatment for prostate cancer. Confirm the availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques (like IMRT or image-guided radiation therapy – IGRT) at each hospital.

**Robotic Surgery:**

Robotic-assisted prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgical option. Verify if the hospitals offer this procedure and the experience of the surgeons.

**Urology Practices:**

In addition to hospitals, consider local urology practices. These practices often have affiliations with hospitals and can provide initial consultations, screenings, and follow-up care. Research the experience and credentials of the urologists.

**Clinical Trials:**

Access to clinical trials is crucial for some patients. Inquire about clinical trial participation at each cancer center.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Confirm that the hospitals and specialists accept your insurance plan.

**Patient Reviews and Ratings:**

Research patient reviews and ratings on websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and U.S. News & World Report. These can provide insights into patient experiences.

**Support Services:**

Inquire about support services offered by the cancer centers, such as:

* **Patient navigators:** To help navigate the healthcare system.
* **Support groups:** To connect with other patients.
* **Counseling services:** To address emotional and psychological needs.
* **Nutrition and rehabilitation services:** To support recovery.

**Travel and Logistics:**

Factor in travel time, parking, and accommodation costs when considering hospitals outside of Tarboro.

**Cost of Care:**

Inquire about the cost of services and payment options.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing a prostate cancer treatment center is a personal decision. Residents near Tarboro, NC (27893) should prioritize hospitals like Vidant Medical Center, UNC Health Rex Hospital, and WakeMed Health & Hospitals. Thorough research, including reviewing CMS star ratings, ER wait times, telehealth options, and the specific services offered, is essential. Consulting with a primary care physician and/or a urologist can provide valuable guidance in navigating this complex process.