28350, Lakeview, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28350, Lakeview, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28350

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review examines healthcare options for prostate cancer patients residing near ZIP code 28350 (Lumberton, North Carolina), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Lumberton, North Carolina, is situated in Robeson County, a region with a diverse population and varying healthcare needs. Access to specialized medical care, including oncology services, is a primary concern. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in factors like travel time and patient preferences.

**Key Hospitals in the Region**

The primary hospital serving Lumberton is **Southeastern Regional Medical Center (SRMC)**, located directly in the city. SRMC is a significant player in the local healthcare ecosystem. It is important to note that hospital star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are dynamic and can change. Patients should consult the most recent CMS data for the most up-to-date information on SRMC’s performance. The hospital offers a range of services, including oncology, and is a crucial point of access for residents of Robeson County.

**Specialized Oncology Services at SRMC**

SRMC provides a dedicated oncology department, which is essential for prostate cancer patients. The department typically offers diagnostic services, including biopsies and imaging (CT scans, MRI, PET scans). Treatment options often include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The availability of these services within the local hospital reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for their care. It's crucial to inquire about the specific types of radiation therapy offered (e.g., external beam radiation, brachytherapy) and the expertise of the radiation oncologists.

**ER Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it's important to understand the general trends. Patients can often find average wait times on hospital websites or through third-party platforms. SRMC's ER is a vital resource for the community, and understanding its operational efficiency is important.

**Telehealth and Remote Access**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. SRMC likely offers some telehealth options. Inquiring about the availability of virtual appointments for oncology consultations, medication management, and post-treatment follow-up is essential. Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Flagship Hospitals: Beyond Lumberton**

Patients may choose to seek care at larger, more specialized hospitals outside of Lumberton. These hospitals often have a broader range of resources and expertise.

**Duke University Hospital (Durham, NC)**

Duke University Hospital, approximately 100 miles from Lumberton, is a nationally recognized medical center. It is a flagship hospital with a strong reputation for cancer care. Duke's comprehensive cancer center offers cutting-edge treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer. Duke consistently receives high ratings from CMS. The hospital's advanced facilities and specialized expertise make it a strong contender for patients seeking the highest level of care.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill, NC)**

The UNC Medical Center, also located in Chapel Hill, is another prominent academic medical center within a reasonable driving distance of Lumberton (around 120 miles). UNC also boasts a comprehensive cancer center. It is known for its research and innovative treatment options. Like Duke, UNC is typically highly rated by CMS. UNC's commitment to research and its multidisciplinary approach to cancer care make it a desirable option.

**Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem, NC)**

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, located approximately 150 miles from Lumberton, offers another option for specialized prostate cancer care. It has a strong reputation for its cancer programs and research. While the distance is greater, patients might choose Wake Forest based on specific treatment preferences or the availability of clinical trials.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment.

**Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the urologist, radiation oncologist, and other specialists are paramount. Patients should research the physicians' credentials, training, and experience in treating prostate cancer.

**Treatment Options:** Different hospitals offer different treatment options. Patients should inquire about the availability of surgery (including robotic-assisted surgery), radiation therapy (including different types of radiation), and other therapies.

**Clinical Trials:** Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. Patients should inquire about the availability of clinical trials at each hospital.

**Support Services:** Cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. Patients should inquire about the availability of support services, such as counseling, support groups, and patient navigation.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network. Understand the costs associated with treatment and any out-of-pocket expenses.

**Travel and Logistics:** Consider the distance to the hospital, parking availability, and other logistical factors.

**Specific Questions to Ask**

When consulting with physicians and hospitals, patients should ask specific questions:

* What is your experience in treating prostate cancer?
* What treatment options do you recommend for my specific case?
* What are the potential side effects of each treatment option?
* What is the success rate of the treatments you offer?
* Are there any clinical trials that I might be eligible for?
* What support services are available to patients?
* How long will the treatment process take?
* What are the costs associated with treatment?

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a significant decision. Patients near ZIP code 28350 have several options, including SRMC in Lumberton and larger, more specialized hospitals like Duke, UNC, and Wake Forest. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, including hospital quality, physician expertise, treatment options, and support services, patients can make an informed decision that best suits their individual needs and preferences. Regular consultation with your primary care physician and a urologist is crucial to navigate the complexities of diagnosis and treatment.