28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28351, Laurel Hill, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospital Options Near ZIP Code 28351**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Access to quality healthcare, particularly specialized oncology services, is paramount. This review examines hospital options near ZIP code 28351 (Lumberton, North Carolina), focusing on factors crucial for prostate cancer patients: hospital quality, specialist availability, and accessibility. While this review aims to provide informative insights, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their physicians to determine the best course of treatment.

**Proximity and Key Hospitals**

The primary hospital serving Lumberton is UNC Health Southeastern, located directly within the 28351 ZIP code. Further afield, residents may consider larger facilities in Fayetteville, Raleigh, and Charlotte. These larger cities offer access to specialized cancer centers and a broader range of specialists.

**UNC Health Southeastern: A Local Overview**

UNC Health Southeastern is the primary healthcare provider in Lumberton. The hospital offers a range of services, including cancer care. The hospital's oncology services are provided by the Southeastern Health Cancer Center, which offers radiation therapy and chemotherapy. However, the hospital does not have a dedicated urology department. Patients may need to be referred to a urologist in the area or seek care at a larger facility for specialized prostate cancer treatments, such as robotic-assisted surgery.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Metrics**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, provide a general indicator of hospital performance. As of the latest available data, UNC Health Southeastern's CMS star rating should be checked on the CMS website. It is important to note that CMS ratings are just one indicator of hospital quality and should be considered alongside other factors, such as specialist availability and patient reviews.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times can be a significant concern for patients. While specific wait times fluctuate, UNC Health Southeastern's ER wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through third-party websites that track this data. Longer wait times may indicate higher patient volumes or staffing challenges.

**Specialty Centers and Oncology Services**

The Southeastern Health Cancer Center is the primary oncology provider at UNC Health Southeastern. The center offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and support services. The center's capabilities for prostate cancer treatment include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. However, the availability of advanced treatments like brachytherapy or robotic-assisted surgery may be limited.

**Specialist Availability: Urology and Oncology**

The availability of specialists is crucial for prostate cancer care. Patients need access to urologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. UNC Health Southeastern has medical oncologists and radiation oncologists on staff. However, the hospital does not have a dedicated urology department. Patients may need to seek a urologist in the area or travel to a larger facility.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. UNC Health Southeastern offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling. The availability of telehealth for specific oncology services, such as consultations with specialists, should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Regional Options: Fayetteville and Beyond**

Patients in the 28351 area may also consider hospitals in Fayetteville, North Carolina, which is approximately a 45-minute drive. Cape Fear Valley Health System is the primary hospital system in Fayetteville. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers a comprehensive cancer center with a full range of oncology services, including urology and radiation oncology. Cape Fear Valley's CMS star rating should be checked on the CMS website.

**Duke Health: A Premier Option**

For patients seeking the highest level of care, Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina, is a premier option. Duke Cancer Institute is a nationally recognized cancer center offering advanced treatments, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to care. Duke University Hospital consistently receives high CMS star ratings and is known for its expertise in urology and oncology. However, the travel distance (approximately a 2-hour drive) may be a barrier for some patients.

**UNC Medical Center: Another Top-Tier Choice**

UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is another leading option. The UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center offering a wide range of services, including advanced prostate cancer treatments and clinical trials. UNC Medical Center also typically receives high CMS star ratings. The travel distance (approximately a 2-hour drive) should be considered.

**Robotic Surgery Capabilities**

Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive technique often used for prostate cancer treatment. The availability of robotic surgery varies among hospitals. Patients should inquire about the availability of robotic surgery at UNC Health Southeastern, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, and other facilities they are considering.

**Clinical Trials and Research**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments. Major cancer centers, such as Duke Cancer Institute and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, often have a wide range of clinical trials available. Patients interested in clinical trials should discuss this option with their physicians.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews and ratings for hospitals and physicians. These reviews can help patients assess factors such as communication, care coordination, and overall satisfaction.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a critical consideration, especially for patients undergoing treatment. Factors to consider include the distance to the hospital, transportation options, and parking availability. Patients in the 28351 area should consider the travel time to each hospital and the availability of transportation assistance if needed.

**Financial Considerations**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. Patients should inquire about insurance coverage, out-of-pocket expenses, and financial assistance programs. The hospital's billing department can provide information about costs and payment options.

**Conclusion**

For residents of the 28351 ZIP code facing a prostate cancer diagnosis, UNC Health Southeastern provides local care. However, for specialized treatments, advanced technologies, and access to a wider range of specialists, patients may need to consider hospitals in Fayetteville, Durham, or Chapel Hill. Patients should thoroughly research their options, consult with their physicians, and consider factors such as hospital quality, specialist availability, travel distance, and patient reviews. The best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences.