28385, Salemburg, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28385, Salemburg, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28385

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Finding the right medical care is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 28385 (Southern Pines, North Carolina) to provide a fact-based assessment of their prostate cancer treatment capabilities, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes and experience. The information presented is based on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) ratings, and other reputable sources.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape in and around Southern Pines offers a range of options, from large, regional medical centers to smaller, specialized facilities. Proximity is a key consideration, but the quality of care, expertise of the medical teams, and access to advanced technologies are equally important. This review will examine the key players and their strengths in prostate cancer treatment.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst, NC): A Regional Powerhouse**

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, located in Pinehurst, NC, is a significant player in the region. This hospital is a flagship facility within the FirstHealth system. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it generally maintains a respectable rating, reflecting its commitment to patient safety and quality of care. Patients should check the most recent CMS data for the current rating.

Moore Regional Hospital's cancer program includes a dedicated cancer center offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This means patients benefit from the coordinated expertise of urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. The hospital boasts advanced imaging capabilities, crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. This includes MRI, CT scans, and bone scans.

**Specialized Prostate Cancer Services:**

Moore Regional Hospital offers a comprehensive suite of prostate cancer treatments. Surgical options include robotic-assisted prostatectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that often leads to faster recovery times and reduced complications. The hospital also provides radiation therapy, including external beam radiation and brachytherapy (internal radiation). Chemotherapy is available for advanced stages of the disease.

**ER Wait Times and Telehealth:**

ER wait times are a critical factor in patient satisfaction. While specific wait times can fluctuate, patients should inquire about average wait times at the time of their visit. FirstHealth has invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Check with the hospital for specific telehealth options available for prostate cancer patients.

**UNC Health Southeastern (Lumberton, NC): Serving a Wider Region**

Approximately 45 miles east of Southern Pines, UNC Health Southeastern in Lumberton, NC, serves a broader region. This hospital, part of the UNC Health system, is another option for prostate cancer care. Like Moore Regional, UNC Health Southeastern should be checked for its most recent CMS star rating.

**Cancer Care at UNC Health Southeastern:**

UNC Health Southeastern has a cancer center that provides a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. The hospital offers surgical options, including prostatectomy. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are also available. Patients should inquire about the availability of advanced technologies and specialized treatments.

**Considerations for UNC Health Southeastern:**

Due to its location, UNC Health Southeastern might be more accessible for some residents of the 28385 ZIP code. However, patients should consider travel time and potential traffic when making their decision. Patients should also assess the availability of specialists and the hospital's experience in treating prostate cancer.

**Other Potential Options:**

While Moore Regional and UNC Health Southeastern are the primary regional hospitals, other facilities may offer relevant services. Patients may need to travel further to access specialized care or clinical trials.

**Duke Health (Durham, NC): A Tertiary Care Center**

Approximately 75 miles north of Southern Pines, Duke Health in Durham, NC, is a major tertiary care center. Duke is renowned for its advanced cancer treatment programs and research. Duke University Hospital consistently receives high CMS star ratings.

**Duke's Prostate Cancer Expertise:**

Duke's urology and oncology departments are highly regarded. They offer a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, including cutting-edge surgical techniques, advanced radiation therapy, and access to clinical trials. Duke's specialists are often at the forefront of research, offering patients access to innovative therapies.

**Considerations for Duke Health:**

Duke Health offers exceptional care but requires significant travel for residents of the 28385 ZIP code. Patients should consider the distance, potential costs, and the need for extended stays if undergoing complex treatments.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health (Winston-Salem, NC): Another Academic Center**

Located approximately 100 miles northwest of Southern Pines, Wake Forest Baptist Health in Winston-Salem, NC, is another academic medical center. Similar to Duke, Wake Forest Baptist Health consistently receives high CMS star ratings.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health's Cancer Program:**

Wake Forest Baptist Health's comprehensive cancer center offers a multidisciplinary approach to prostate cancer care. The hospital provides advanced surgical options, including robotic-assisted prostatectomy. They also offer sophisticated radiation therapy techniques and access to clinical trials.

**Considerations for Wake Forest Baptist Health:**

Like Duke, Wake Forest Baptist Health requires significant travel. Patients should carefully weigh the benefits of accessing specialized care against the inconvenience of traveling long distances.

**Key Factors in Hospital Selection:**

When choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment, several factors should be considered:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the experience and qualifications of the urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists.
* **Treatment Options:** Ensure the hospital offers the full range of treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Technology:** Assess the availability of advanced imaging and treatment technologies.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Look for a hospital with a multidisciplinary cancer team.
* **Patient Support Services:** Inquire about patient support services, such as support groups, counseling, and financial assistance.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and physicians are in your insurance network.
* **Hospital Ratings:** Review CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** Inquire about average ER wait times.
* **Telehealth Options:** Inquire about telehealth options for consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Specific Questions to Ask:**

When consulting with potential providers, ask these specific questions:

* What is your experience 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 your treatments?
* What support services are available to patients?
* What is the hospital's experience with robotic-assisted prostatectomy?
* What are the average ER wait times?
* What telehealth options are available?

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a critical decision. Residents of the 28385 ZIP code have several options, ranging from regional hospitals to major academic medical centers. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review and asking the right questions, patients can make informed decisions and access the best possible care. Remember to always verify the most current information, including CMS star ratings, directly with the hospitals. The information provided is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized medical guidance.