27973, Shawboro, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 27973

Finding the best care for prostate cancer requires careful consideration. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 27973 (Manteo, North Carolina) to provide a fact-rich overview of available resources, including key performance indicators, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a clear picture to aid informed decision-making for patients and their families.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The immediate vicinity of Manteo, NC, presents a limited selection of hospitals. Residents often travel to larger cities like Norfolk, Virginia, or Greenville, North Carolina, for advanced medical care. This review will primarily focus on facilities within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging the importance of considering travel time when planning treatment.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (Norfolk, VA): A Flagship Institution**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is a major regional player. It holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality, though it's crucial to remember that these ratings are snapshots and don't encompass every aspect of care. The hospital is a Level I Trauma Center, indicating its capacity to handle complex cases. While specific prostate cancer survival rates are not readily available, Sentara's comprehensive cancer program offers a multidisciplinary approach, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology.

**Sentara's Prostate Cancer Services:**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital boasts a robust urology department. They offer a range of treatment options, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy (using the da Vinci surgical system), external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), and hormone therapy. They have a dedicated cancer center, providing coordinated care. Telehealth options are increasingly available, but specifics on prostate cancer-specific telehealth are not readily available.

**Sentara's Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital's ER wait times are generally reported to be around 2-3 hours. This data fluctuates based on patient volume and the severity of cases.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Regional Referral Center**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville, NC, is another significant option. It is a teaching hospital and serves as a regional referral center. It also holds a 3-star rating from CMS. While this rating is lower than Sentara Norfolk General, Vidant offers a wide array of services, including a comprehensive cancer program.

**Vidant's Prostate Cancer Services:**

Vidant Medical Center provides a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments. This includes surgical options, radiation therapy (including advanced techniques like intensity-modulated radiation therapy - IMRT), and chemotherapy. Vidant's cancer center offers support services, such as patient navigation and support groups. Telehealth options are available, with some specific services for oncology patients.

**Vidant's Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Vidant Medical Center's ER wait times are similar to Sentara Norfolk General, averaging between 2-3 hours. This can vary significantly.

**Other Considerations:**

Smaller community hospitals in the area may offer basic urological services, including initial screening and diagnosis. However, for advanced treatment, such as surgery or complex radiation therapy, referral to a larger center is often necessary.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Both Sentara Norfolk General and Vidant Medical Center have dedicated cancer centers. These centers often provide multidisciplinary teams, including urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care staff. The availability of specialized programs, such as those focused on robotic surgery or specific radiation techniques, is a key factor to consider.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Both Sentara and Vidant offer telehealth services, though the specifics of prostate cancer-specific telehealth are not always readily available. Telehealth can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Patients should inquire about the availability of these services and their suitability for their specific needs.

**Access to Clinical Trials:**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Larger hospitals, like Sentara and Vidant, are more likely to have active clinical trial programs. Patients should discuss the possibility of participating in a clinical trial with their oncologist.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of prostate cancer treatment can be substantial. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, payment options, and financial assistance programs. The hospitals' websites or patient financial services departments can provide this information.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of care. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report provide patient reviews and ratings. These can offer insights into patient satisfaction with the hospital, physicians, and overall care experience. However, individual experiences can vary.

**Physician Credentials and Expertise:**

The experience and expertise of the urologist and other specialists are paramount. Patients should research the physicians' credentials, board certifications, and experience in treating prostate cancer. The American Urological Association (AUA) website can be a valuable resource for finding qualified urologists.

**Specific Treatment Modalities:**

* **Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy:** This minimally invasive surgical technique offers potential benefits, such as reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Both Sentara and Vidant offer this option.
* **Radiation Therapy:** External beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy are common treatment options. Patients should inquire about the types of radiation therapy offered, including advanced techniques like IMRT.
* **Hormone Therapy:** This therapy can be used to slow the growth of prostate cancer.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy is used for advanced prostate cancer.

**Research and Innovation:**

The hospitals' commitment to research and innovation is a sign of a strong cancer program. Patients should inquire about the hospital's involvement in clinical trials and research initiatives.

**The Importance of a Second Opinion:**

Seeking a second opinion from another urologist or oncologist is always advisable, especially when dealing with a serious diagnosis like prostate cancer. This can help confirm the diagnosis, explore alternative treatment options, and ensure the patient feels confident in their treatment plan.

**Conclusion:**

For residents near ZIP code 27973, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Vidant Medical Center are the primary options for comprehensive prostate cancer care. Both offer a range of treatment options, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. However, patients should carefully consider factors such as ER wait times, patient reviews, physician expertise, and financial considerations. The best hospital for a patient will depend on their individual needs and preferences. Further research, consultations with physicians, and a thorough understanding of all available resources are essential for making an informed decision.