28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28387**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment plan requires access to high-quality medical care. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 28387 (Southern Pines, North Carolina) to provide insights into the available resources, focusing on factors crucial for prostate cancer patients.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in and around Southern Pines is shaped by a mix of regional and national healthcare providers. Proximity to larger cities like Fayetteville and Raleigh expands treatment options. This review considers the core hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, emphasizing their capabilities in prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

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

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, located in Pinehurst, is a central player in the local healthcare ecosystem. It's a flagship hospital in the FirstHealth system. As of the latest publicly available data, Moore Regional Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality, patient experience, and outcomes. While not the highest rating, it's a key indicator of a hospital's performance.

Moore Regional Hospital's emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients needing immediate care. Publicly available data on ER wait times fluctuates, but it's essential to check current wait times on websites like the hospital's or third-party sources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. Shorter wait times are generally preferable.

The hospital's cancer services are centralized in the FirstHealth Cancer Center. This center offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The presence of a dedicated cancer center often indicates a commitment to specialized cancer care, including prostate cancer.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for cancer patients, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments. FirstHealth has expanded its telehealth capabilities. Check the FirstHealth website for the most current information on telehealth options for oncology patients. This can be especially beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC)**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, located in Fayetteville, provides another option for patients near 28387. It’s a larger hospital, often drawing patients from a wider geographic area. As of the latest data, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center also holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating, similar to Moore Regional, provides a benchmark for overall hospital performance.

Emergency room wait times at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center should be assessed. Data on ER wait times is available through the hospital’s website, the CMS Hospital Compare website, or third-party sources. Longer wait times can be a concern, particularly for patients experiencing acute symptoms.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a dedicated cancer center, which offers a range of services for cancer patients. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center indicates a focus on specialized cancer care.

Telehealth services are available at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. Details on telehealth options for oncology patients, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, can be found on the hospital's website. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for patients managing their care.

**UNC Health Southeastern (Lumberton, NC)**

UNC Health Southeastern, located in Lumberton, offers another option for patients near 28387. This hospital is part of the UNC Health system, which is known for its academic affiliations and research capabilities.

Emergency room wait times at UNC Health Southeastern are a key factor for patients seeking immediate care. Publicly available data on ER wait times is available on the hospital's website, the CMS Hospital Compare website, or third-party sources.

UNC Health Southeastern has a cancer center that provides services for cancer patients. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center indicates a focus on specialized cancer care.

Telehealth services are available at UNC Health Southeastern. Details on telehealth options for oncology patients, including virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, can be found on the hospital's website. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for patients managing their care.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise**

Beyond general hospital services, it's important to identify specialized centers and expertise in prostate cancer care. Look for hospitals with dedicated urology departments staffed by experienced urologists, including those specializing in robotic surgery.

Robotic-assisted surgery is a common approach for prostate cancer treatment. Hospitals with advanced surgical capabilities, including robotic surgery platforms like the da Vinci system, often offer more precise and less invasive procedures.

Radiation oncology departments are also crucial. These departments should offer a range of radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), and potentially newer techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

**Diagnostic Capabilities**

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective prostate cancer treatment. Hospitals should have access to advanced imaging technologies, including MRI, CT scans, and PET scans. These imaging modalities are essential for staging the cancer and monitoring treatment response.

Biopsy capabilities are also critical. Hospitals should offer various biopsy techniques, including transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy and potentially more advanced techniques like MRI-guided biopsy.

**Treatment Options**

The range of treatment options available is a key factor in evaluating hospitals. These options include:

* **Surgery:** Prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate) is a common treatment option. Look for hospitals that offer minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted prostatectomy.
* **Radiation Therapy:** External beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy are common radiation treatment options.
* **Hormone Therapy:** This therapy can be used to slow the growth of cancer cells.
* **Chemotherapy:** This is used in advanced cases.
* **Active Surveillance:** This is an option for some men with low-risk prostate cancer, involving regular monitoring without immediate treatment.

**Patient Experience and Support Services**

Beyond clinical expertise, consider patient experience and support services. Look for hospitals that offer:

* **Patient navigators:** These individuals help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.
* **Support groups:** Support groups provide emotional support and information.
* **Rehabilitation services:** These services can help patients recover from treatment side effects.
* **Access to clinical trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Research and Innovation**

Hospitals affiliated with academic medical centers often participate in research and clinical trials. This can provide access to innovative treatments and the latest advances in prostate cancer care.

**Access to Care and Insurance**

Consider the hospital's acceptance of your insurance plan. Confirm that the hospital is in your insurance network to avoid unexpected costs.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer care is a significant decision. Patients should research their options, considering the factors outlined above. Consult with your primary care physician and a urologist to discuss your individual needs and preferences. Visit the hospitals' websites, review patient testimonials, and gather as much information as possible.

**Conclusion**

The hospitals near ZIP code 28387 offer varying levels of prostate cancer care. FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, and UNC Health Southeastern are key providers. Patients should carefully evaluate their options based on their individual needs, preferences, and the factors discussed in this review. Thorough research and consultation with healthcare professionals are essential for making an informed decision.