28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28543 (Jacksonville, NC)

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Selecting the right hospital for treatment is a critical decision. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28543), evaluating their capabilities in prostate cancer care, considering factors like hospital quality, specialist availability, and access to advanced technologies. This information is intended to provide a starting point for patients and their families, and should be supplemented by personal consultations with medical professionals.

**Understanding the Landscape: Jacksonville and Beyond**

Jacksonville, NC, is served by a network of hospitals, with the most prominent being located in the city itself and in nearby Wilmington. The availability of specialized care for prostate cancer varies, and patients may need to travel to access the most advanced treatments. This review will consider hospitals within a roughly 100-mile radius, factoring in travel time and accessibility for residents of the 28543 ZIP code.

**Key Players: Focusing on Quality and Specialization**

The primary hospital serving Jacksonville is **Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL)**. As a military hospital, NHCL provides care primarily for active-duty service members, their families, and retirees. While NHCL offers urology services, including prostate cancer screening and treatment, its capacity and specific specializations may vary. Information on CMS star ratings is not applicable to military hospitals. Patients within the military healthcare system should consult with their primary care physicians and specialists at NHCL for personalized recommendations.

**Coastal Carolina Hospital (CCH)** in Wilmington, NC, is a significant regional healthcare provider within a reasonable driving distance. CCH, part of the Novant Health system, offers a range of services, including urology and oncology. While specific prostate cancer treatment data like the number of robotic surgeries performed or the availability of advanced radiation therapies are not publicly available, patients can inquire directly with the hospital about their urology department's capabilities. CCH has a 3-star CMS rating.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC)**, also in Wilmington, is another key player in the region. Now part of Novant Health, NHRMC is a larger, more comprehensive hospital with a strong reputation. NHRMC's cancer center is a major draw, and they have a dedicated urology department. They likely offer a broader range of prostate cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. NHRMC has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Factors to Consider: Beyond the Basics**

When evaluating hospitals for prostate cancer care, several factors beyond general hospital ratings are crucial.

**Specialized Expertise:** The experience of the urologists and oncologists is paramount. Patients should inquire about the number of prostate cancer cases treated annually by the hospital and the specific experience of the physicians. Ask about the number of robotic surgeries performed, as this is often a preferred surgical approach for prostate cancer.

**Advanced Technologies:** Access to state-of-the-art technology is essential. This includes advanced imaging techniques like MRI and PET scans for accurate diagnosis and staging. Radiation therapy options, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), should be available.

**Multidisciplinary Approach:** Prostate cancer care often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other specialists. Patients should look for hospitals that offer coordinated care, with regular communication and collaboration among these specialists.

**Patient Support Services:** Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Hospitals with robust patient support services, including counseling, support groups, and access to social workers, are highly valuable.

**Telehealth and Accessibility:** Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. Inquire about the availability of telehealth options for prostate cancer patients. Accessibility is also critical. Consider the distance to the hospital, parking availability, and the ease of navigating the facility.

**Specific Hospital Assessments:**

**Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL):** As a military hospital, NHCL is the primary healthcare provider for many residents of the area. Patients should consult with their primary care physicians and urologists at NHCL to determine the best course of action. The hospital likely offers screening and basic treatment options. However, the availability of specialized treatments may be limited compared to larger civilian hospitals.

**Coastal Carolina Hospital (CCH):** CCH offers a good starting point for prostate cancer care. Patients can consult with their primary care physicians for referrals to the hospital's urology department. Patients should inquire about the specific expertise of the urologists and the range of treatment options available.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC):** NHRMC is likely the best option for comprehensive prostate cancer care in the region. Its cancer center and experienced urology department offer a wider range of treatment options and a multidisciplinary approach. Patients should inquire about the specific technologies available, the experience of the physicians, and the availability of support services.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can be a useful indicator of hospital efficiency, though they don't directly reflect prostate cancer care. According to recent data, average ER wait times can fluctuate. Checking real-time wait times through online resources or by calling the hospital is recommended before visiting the ER.

**Telehealth Statistics:** Telehealth usage has increased in recent years. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, consultations, and other aspects of prostate cancer care. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer greater convenience and accessibility.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

Choosing the right hospital for prostate cancer care is a personal decision. Patients should gather as much information as possible, including:

* **Physician Consultations:** Schedule consultations with urologists and oncologists at the hospitals you are considering. Discuss your specific diagnosis, treatment options, and the physicians' experience.
* **Hospital Tours:** If possible, tour the hospitals to assess the facilities, meet the staff, and get a sense of the environment.
* **Second Opinions:** Consider seeking a second opinion from a specialist at a different hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify your insurance coverage for the hospitals and treatments you are considering.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of Jacksonville, NC (28543) have access to a range of hospitals for prostate cancer care. While NHCL serves the military community, NHRMC in Wilmington likely offers the most comprehensive care in the region. Patients should carefully evaluate the factors discussed above, consult with medical professionals, and make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.