28375, Proctorville, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28375, Proctorville, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28375**

The ZIP code 28375, encompassing the town of Raeford, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas, presents a unique healthcare landscape for men concerned about prostate cancer. Access to specialized care, diagnostic tools, and treatment options varies, making informed decisions crucial. This review analyzes the key hospitals within a reasonable radius, focusing on their prostate cancer services, quality metrics, and accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Raeford, like many rural communities, faces challenges in healthcare access. Proximity to larger medical centers is a significant factor. This review considers hospitals within a 50-mile radius, acknowledging that travel time and patient preferences influence choices. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, a widely recognized indicator of hospital quality, are incorporated where available. Emergency room wait times, a crucial aspect of immediate care, are also considered, along with the availability of telehealth services.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Prostate Cancer Programs**

**Cape Fear Valley Health System (Fayetteville, NC)**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, located in Fayetteville, is a major regional healthcare provider and a primary option for residents near 28375. It is approximately 20 miles from Raeford. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center holds a 3-star CMS rating, reflecting its overall performance. The hospital’s cancer program is comprehensive, offering a range of services, including surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a dedicated urology department that handles prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic tools, including MRI fusion biopsies, which improve the accuracy of prostate cancer detection. Surgical options include robotic-assisted prostatectomy, a minimally invasive approach that can lead to faster recovery times. Radiation therapy options include external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy.

Cape Fear Valley's ER wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to maintain reasonable wait times. The hospital has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual appointments for follow-up care and consultations, which can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas. Cape Fear Valley's cancer center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst, NC)**

Located in Pinehurst, approximately 40 miles from Raeford, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital is another important healthcare option. Moore Regional has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of quality compared to Cape Fear Valley. Its cancer program is well-regarded in the region.

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital offers a comprehensive prostate cancer program. The hospital's urology department provides advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy, external beam radiation therapy, and brachytherapy. The hospital has a multidisciplinary approach to care, with a team of specialists collaborating on each patient's treatment plan.

The hospital's ER wait times are generally competitive within the region. FirstHealth has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. The FirstHealth Cancer Center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

**Other Considerations**

**Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Facilities**

While the larger hospitals offer comprehensive services, smaller hospitals and outpatient facilities in the region also play a role in prostate cancer care. These facilities may offer diagnostic services, such as blood tests and imaging, and may provide access to specialists.

**Specialty Centers and Cancer Centers**

Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth Moore Regional have dedicated cancer centers. These centers provide a range of services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care. They also offer access to clinical trials, which can provide patients with access to the latest treatment options.

**Diagnostic Tools and Treatment Options**

The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI fusion biopsies, is critical for accurate prostate cancer detection. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer. Surgical options include radical prostatectomy (removal of the prostate) and robotic-assisted prostatectomy. Radiation therapy options include external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), and proton therapy. Hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are also used in the treatment of prostate cancer.

**Telehealth and Accessibility**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for patients in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care without having to travel long distances. Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth Moore Regional have expanded their telehealth offerings.

**ER Wait Times**

ER wait times are a critical consideration, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms. While wait times can vary, it is important to consider the average wait times at each hospital. Data on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites or through third-party sources.

**CMS Star Ratings**

The CMS star ratings provide a valuable indicator of hospital quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally provide a higher level of care.

**Specifics on Prostate Cancer Care**

**Surgical Options:** Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth offer robotic-assisted prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique. This approach often leads to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery. The hospitals' urology departments employ experienced surgeons who are skilled in this technique.

**Radiation Therapy:** Both hospitals offer external beam radiation therapy. FirstHealth also offers brachytherapy. This involves placing radioactive seeds directly into the prostate. Both hospitals utilize advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), to target the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

**Medical Oncology:** Both hospitals have medical oncologists who specialize in treating prostate cancer with medications. This includes hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and newer targeted therapies. These specialists work closely with the surgical and radiation oncology teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans.

**Support Services:** Both hospitals offer support services for prostate cancer patients, including support groups, counseling, and rehabilitation services. These services are designed to help patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment.

**Considerations for Patients Near 28375**

Patients residing near 28375 should consider several factors when choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care. These include:

* **Proximity:** The distance to the hospital and travel time.
* **Hospital Quality:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Specialty Expertise:** The experience and expertise of the urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists.
* **Treatment Options:** The availability of advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, such as robotic surgery and brachytherapy.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The availability of telehealth services for consultations and follow-up care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Average ER wait times, especially if immediate care is needed.

**Conclusion**

For residents near ZIP code 28375, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital are the primary options for prostate cancer care. Both hospitals offer comprehensive services, including advanced diagnostic tools, surgical options, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The choice between these hospitals will depend on individual patient needs and preferences. Patients should consult with their primary care physician and specialists to determine the best course of action. Thorough research, including consideration of the factors outlined above, is essential for making informed decisions about prostate cancer care.