28421, Atkinson, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28421, Atkinson, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Prostate Cancer Care in Southeastern North Carolina: A Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 28421**

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Choosing the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 28421 (Burgaw, North Carolina) focusing on key factors relevant to prostate cancer care, including hospital quality metrics, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape in and around Burgaw, North Carolina, is primarily served by a mix of community hospitals and regional medical centers. Proximity to larger cities like Wilmington offers access to more specialized care. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, acknowledging that patient preferences and insurance coverage will influence the final choice.

**Key Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients**

Several factors are crucial when evaluating hospitals for prostate cancer care. These include: the expertise of urologists and oncologists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (MRI, PET scans), the range of treatment options (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy), and the hospital's overall quality and patient experience.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington, NC)**

New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), now part of Novant Health, is a significant regional healthcare provider located in Wilmington, approximately 30 minutes from Burgaw. NHRMC is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services, including specialized cancer care.

* **Quality Metrics:** NHRMC has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital performance based on various quality measures. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a baseline level of quality. Patients should review the specific metrics that contribute to the rating to understand the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.
* **Specialized Cancer Care:** NHRMC houses the Zimmer Cancer Institute, which offers a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. This includes medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive care services. The institute likely has a team of urologists specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** NHRMC likely offers a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, including robotic-assisted surgery (e.g., the da Vinci system), external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** The hospital is expected to have advanced imaging capabilities, including MRI and PET scans, essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer.
* **ER Wait Times:** As of late 2023, ER wait times at NHRMC have been reported to fluctuate, often exceeding the national average. Prospective patients should check current wait times on the hospital's website or through third-party sources like wait times.net.
* **Telehealth:** NHRMC has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. Patients may be able to access follow-up appointments, consultations, and potentially even some aspects of cancer support services remotely. Specific telehealth availability for prostate cancer patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

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

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is located in Fayetteville, approximately a 1 hour and 30 minute drive from Burgaw. It is a large regional medical center.

* **Quality Metrics:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
* **Specialized Cancer Care:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers a comprehensive cancer center. They likely have a team of urologists specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Treatment Options:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers a full spectrum of prostate cancer treatments, including robotic-assisted surgery, external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** The hospital is expected to have advanced imaging capabilities, including MRI and PET scans, essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer.
* **ER Wait Times:** As of late 2023, ER wait times at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center have been reported to fluctuate.
* **Telehealth:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. Patients may be able to access follow-up appointments, consultations, and potentially even some aspects of cancer support services remotely. Specific telehealth availability for prostate cancer patients should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Dosher Memorial Hospital (Southport, NC)**

Dosher Memorial Hospital, located in Southport, NC, is a smaller community hospital. It is approximately a 45-minute drive from Burgaw.

* **Quality Metrics:** Dosher Memorial Hospital has a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
* **Specialized Cancer Care:** Dosher Memorial Hospital is a smaller community hospital. It may offer limited cancer care services, including some diagnostic and supportive services.
* **Treatment Options:** Dosher Memorial Hospital may offer limited prostate cancer treatments.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Dosher Memorial Hospital may have limited advanced imaging capabilities.
* **ER Wait Times:** As of late 2023, ER wait times at Dosher Memorial Hospital have been reported to fluctuate.
* **Telehealth:** Dosher Memorial Hospital may offer limited telehealth offerings.

**Other Considerations**

* **Physician Expertise:** The specific urologists and oncologists on staff at each hospital are crucial. Patients should research the experience and credentials of the physicians who will be involved in their care. Board certification, fellowship training, and years of experience are important factors.
* **Patient Experience:** Consider patient reviews and testimonials. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide insights into patient satisfaction with the hospital and its staff.
* **Support Services:** Cancer treatment often requires comprehensive support services, including social work, nutrition counseling, and psychological support. Inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its physicians are in your insurance network. This is essential to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Clinical Trials:** If appropriate, explore whether the hospital participates in clinical trials for prostate cancer. These trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the ease of access to each hospital, including travel time, parking, and public transportation options.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research. Patients should:

1. **Consult with their primary care physician:** Seek their recommendations and discuss your specific needs and preferences.
2. **Gather information:** Research the hospitals mentioned above, focusing on their prostate cancer services, physician expertise, and patient reviews.
3. **Schedule consultations:** Meet with urologists and oncologists at the hospitals you are considering. Discuss your diagnosis, treatment options, and any questions you have.
4. **Consider your priorities:** Weigh the factors that are most important to you, such as physician expertise, treatment options, hospital quality, and convenience.

By taking these steps, you can make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best meets your needs for prostate cancer care. The information provided here is current as of late 2023. Hospital services and ratings can change, so it is essential to verify the latest information directly with the hospitals.