27928, Creswell, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27928, Creswell, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27928): A Review

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. This review provides a fact-based overview of the hospitals offering prostate cancer care within a reasonable radius of Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP code 27928), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth availability. This information aims to empower patients and their families to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

Elizabeth City, located in northeastern North Carolina, has limited immediate access to large, comprehensive medical centers. Therefore, this review will consider hospitals within a driving distance that is typically considered feasible for specialized medical care. The primary focus will be on facilities in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia, as they represent the closest concentration of significant healthcare providers.

**Sentara Healthcare System:**

Sentara Healthcare is a major player in the region, with multiple hospitals offering various levels of prostate cancer care. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City itself is a local option, but its specialized oncology services are more limited compared to its larger counterparts.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (Norfolk, VA):**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a flagship facility within the Sentara system, is a Level I Trauma Center and a significant regional resource. It boasts a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating is not the highest possible, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care. The hospital's emergency room wait times fluctuate, often averaging between 1 and 2 hours, according to publicly available data. For prostate cancer patients, this is less of a direct concern, but it reflects overall hospital efficiency. Sentara Norfolk General has a comprehensive cancer program that includes urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, all crucial for prostate cancer treatment. Telehealth services are increasingly available within the Sentara system, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments. Specific telehealth statistics for prostate cancer patients are not always publicly available, but general system-wide telehealth utilization has been increasing.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital (Virginia Beach, VA):**

Another Sentara facility, Virginia Beach General Hospital, is also a significant option. It holds a 3-star CMS rating, mirroring Norfolk General. ER wait times are similar, typically ranging from 1 to 2 hours. The hospital provides a range of cancer services, including urology and radiation oncology. Telehealth services are also integrated into the care delivery model.

**Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) and its Affiliates:**

EVMS, located in Norfolk, is a renowned medical school that collaborates with several hospitals in the area. This often translates to access to cutting-edge research and treatment options.

**EVMS and Sentara Cancer Institute:**

The EVMS and Sentara Cancer Institute is a major collaborative effort. This institute brings together physicians and resources from both institutions to provide comprehensive cancer care. It offers advanced treatment modalities, including robotic surgery and advanced radiation therapy. The institute is known for its focus on research and clinical trials, which can provide patients with access to innovative treatments. While specific CMS ratings are not directly assigned to the institute, the combined resources and expertise of EVMS and Sentara generally indicate a high level of care.

**Riverside Health System:**

Riverside Health System, with its main hospital, Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia, offers another option for prostate cancer patients.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News, VA):**

Riverside Regional Medical Center is a large hospital with a 3-star CMS rating. Its ER wait times are often comparable to Sentara facilities, ranging from 1 to 2 hours. Riverside has a dedicated cancer center offering a full spectrum of services, including urology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The system actively utilizes telehealth to improve patient access to care, including remote consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Specialty Centers and Advanced Treatments:**

The hospitals in the Hampton Roads area offer a range of specialized services for prostate cancer treatment. Robotic-assisted surgery, such as the da Vinci system, is commonly available at major hospitals. This minimally invasive approach can lead to shorter recovery times and reduced complications. Radiation therapy options include external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and brachytherapy (internal radiation). The availability of these advanced technologies varies by hospital.

**Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy:**

Medical oncologists play a crucial role in prostate cancer treatment, particularly for advanced stages. Hospitals in the area have medical oncology departments that provide chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and other systemic treatments. Access to clinical trials is often available through affiliation with research institutions like EVMS.

**Telehealth and Remote Patient Monitoring:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Hospitals in the region are expanding their telehealth capabilities to provide remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Remote patient monitoring (RPM) may also be used to track patients' vital signs and symptoms, particularly those undergoing active treatment. The specific telehealth platforms and services offered vary by hospital and provider.

**ER Wait Times and Patient Experience:**

ER wait times are a common concern for patients. While these wait times are not directly related to prostate cancer care, they can reflect the overall efficiency of a hospital. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times in the region generally range from 1 to 2 hours. Patient experience is also a key factor. CMS and other organizations collect patient satisfaction data through surveys. These surveys assess various aspects of care, including communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall satisfaction.

**Cost and Insurance Considerations:**

The cost of prostate cancer treatment can vary significantly depending on the type of treatment, the hospital, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should discuss costs with their insurance provider and the hospital's financial counselors. It is essential to understand the financial implications of different treatment options before making a decision.

**Research and Clinical Trials:**

Hospitals affiliated with medical schools, such as EVMS, often participate in clinical trials. These trials can provide patients with access to innovative treatments and contribute to advancements in prostate cancer care. Patients should discuss clinical trial options with their physicians.

**Choosing the Right Hospital:**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision. Patients should consider factors such as the hospital's reputation, the expertise of the medical team, the availability of advanced treatments, the convenience of location, and their insurance coverage. Consulting with a primary care physician, a urologist, and an oncologist is crucial in making an informed decision.

**Conclusion:**

The Hampton Roads region of Virginia, within a reasonable driving distance of Elizabeth City, NC (27928), offers several hospitals with comprehensive prostate cancer care. Sentara Healthcare, Riverside Health System, and EVMS affiliates provide a range of services, including robotic surgery, advanced radiation therapy, and medical oncology. While CMS ratings are generally consistent, patients should carefully evaluate each hospital's specific offerings, the expertise of the medical team, and the availability of telehealth services. Thorough research, consultation with healthcare professionals, and a clear understanding of personal needs are essential for making the best decision for prostate cancer treatment.