28585, Trenton, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 28585, Trenton, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Prostate Cancer Care: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28585

Navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis requires access to top-tier medical care. This review examines the hospitals offering prostate cancer treatment options near ZIP code 28585 (Swansboro, North Carolina), focusing on factors crucial to patient outcomes, including hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near Swansboro is primarily shaped by the presence of regional medical centers and their affiliations. Proximity to larger cities like Jacksonville and New Bern expands the range of available options. The focus here will be on identifying hospitals with robust urology departments, advanced treatment modalities, and a commitment to patient-centered care.

**Key Considerations for Prostate Cancer Treatment**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment involves several critical factors. These include the expertise of the urology team, the availability of advanced technologies like robotic surgery and radiation therapy, and the hospital's overall commitment to patient care. The hospital’s experience with prostate cancer cases, as reflected in its volume of procedures, is also a significant indicator of expertise.

**Hospital Profiles: A Deep Dive**

**Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**

Located within the confines of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, NMCCL serves a large population, including active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. While primarily focused on military healthcare, NMCCL's urology department provides prostate cancer screening and treatment services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NMCCL does not have a CMS star rating as it is a military medical facility.
* **Specialty Centers:** NMCCL offers a range of specialty services, including urology, with a focus on serving the needs of its patient population.
* **Robotic Surgery:** NMCCL likely utilizes robotic surgery for prostatectomies and other urological procedures. Specific information can be obtained by contacting the hospital directly.
* **Telehealth:** NMCCL likely offers telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are not readily available to the public.
* **Accessibility:** Access to NMCCL is restricted to authorized personnel and their families.

**CarolinaEast Medical Center (New Bern)**

CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern, approximately 40 minutes from Swansboro, is a regional hospital serving the surrounding communities.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CarolinaEast Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Specialty Centers:** CarolinaEast offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including a urology department.
* **Robotic Surgery:** CarolinaEast offers robotic surgery.
* **Telehealth:** CarolinaEast likely offers telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are available on the hospital's website and are updated regularly.
* **Accessibility:** CarolinaEast is easily accessible to the public.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville)**

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located in Jacksonville, is a community hospital serving the residents of Onslow County.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Onslow Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Specialty Centers:** Onslow Memorial Hospital has a urology department.
* **Robotic Surgery:** Onslow Memorial Hospital offers robotic surgery.
* **Telehealth:** Onslow Memorial Hospital likely offers telehealth services.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are available on the hospital's website and are updated regularly.
* **Accessibility:** Onslow Memorial Hospital is easily accessible to the public.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville)**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville, is a large regional referral center and teaching hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vidant Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer center and a robust urology department.
* **Robotic Surgery:** Vidant Medical Center offers robotic surgery.
* **Telehealth:** Vidant Medical Center has a robust telehealth program.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are available on the hospital's website and are updated regularly.
* **Accessibility:** Vidant Medical Center is easily accessible to the public.

**Duke University Hospital (Durham)**

Located approximately two and a half hours from Swansboro, Duke University Hospital is a nationally recognized academic medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Duke University Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Specialty Centers:** Duke University Hospital has a comprehensive cancer center, including a highly regarded urology department specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Robotic Surgery:** Duke University Hospital offers robotic surgery.
* **Telehealth:** Duke University Hospital has a robust telehealth program.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are available on the hospital's website and are updated regularly.
* **Accessibility:** Duke University Hospital is accessible to the public, but patients may need referrals for certain services.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill)**

UNC Medical Center, approximately two and a half hours from Swansboro, is another major academic medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UNC Medical Center has a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Specialty Centers:** UNC Medical Center has a comprehensive cancer center, including a highly regarded urology department specializing in prostate cancer.
* **Robotic Surgery:** UNC Medical Center offers robotic surgery.
* **Telehealth:** UNC Medical Center has a robust telehealth program.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are available on the hospital's website and are updated regularly.
* **Accessibility:** UNC Medical Center is accessible to the public, but patients may need referrals for certain services.

**Treatment Modalities: What to Expect**

Hospitals in this region offer a range of prostate cancer treatment options. These include:

* **Surgery:** Robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is increasingly common, offering minimally invasive approaches with potentially faster recovery times.
* **Radiation Therapy:** External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (internal radiation) are available at several hospitals.
* **Hormone Therapy:** Hormone therapy, also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), is often used in conjunction with other treatments.
* **Chemotherapy:** Chemotherapy may be used for advanced prostate cancer cases.
* **Active Surveillance:** For low-risk prostate cancer, active surveillance, involving regular monitoring, may be recommended.

**The Importance of Patient Experience**

Beyond clinical outcomes, patient experience is crucial. Consider factors such as:

* **Communication:** How well does the medical team explain the diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects?
* **Support Services:** Does the hospital offer support groups, counseling, and resources for patients and their families?
* **Accessibility:** Is the hospital easy to navigate, with convenient parking and clear signage?
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can improve access to care for patients in rural areas like Swansboro.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

While ER wait times are not directly related to prostate cancer care, they can be a factor in overall healthcare access. Shorter wait times can be an indicator of efficient hospital operations. Check the hospital websites for the most up-to-date information.

**Accessibility: Navigating the System**

Access to care varies. Some hospitals may require referrals from primary care physicians. Military hospitals have specific eligibility requirements. Consider travel time, insurance coverage, and the availability of transportation when choosing a hospital.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for prostate cancer treatment is a personal decision. Researching the hospitals in your area, considering the factors outlined above, and discussing your options with your primary care physician and urologist will help you make the best choice for your individual needs. Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek second opinions, and advocate for your own health.