28747, Lake Toxaway, North Carolina Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 28747, Lake Toxaway, North Carolina is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in the Highlands: A Look at Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28747

Finding quality healthcare, especially for a chronic condition like arthritis, requires careful consideration. This review examines the hospital landscape near ZIP code 28747 (Highlands, North Carolina), focusing on key factors for arthritis patients: access to rheumatology specialists, quality of care, and patient experience. While this area is relatively rural, several hospitals offer specialized services and proximity to larger medical centers.

**Proximity and Options: A Geographic Overview**

The immediate vicinity of Highlands, NC, presents a limited number of hospitals. Residents often travel to larger towns and cities for comprehensive medical care. The closest hospitals with significant healthcare capabilities are found in Asheville, NC, and Greenville, SC, both within a reasonable driving distance. These locations offer a broader range of specialists and advanced treatment options.

**Mission Hospital, Asheville, NC: A Regional Powerhouse**

Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC, is a flagship facility and the most significant healthcare provider within a reasonable driving distance of Highlands. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a rating system that considers factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not a top-tier rating, it reflects a commitment to quality improvement.

Mission Hospital's rheumatology department is a key consideration for arthritis patients. They have a team of board-certified rheumatologists who diagnose and treat various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, and gout. The hospital offers a range of diagnostic tools, including advanced imaging and laboratory services, to accurately assess and manage these conditions.

ER wait times at Mission Hospital fluctuate, but the hospital strives to meet the national average. Data from the CMS indicates that the median time patients spend in the ER before being seen by a healthcare professional is often within the acceptable range. However, wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition.

**Specialized Centers and Services at Mission**

Mission Hospital features specialized centers that can benefit arthritis patients. The Orthopedic Institute offers comprehensive care for musculoskeletal conditions, including joint replacements and rehabilitation services. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are available to help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and regain function.

Mission Hospital also has a strong focus on patient education. They provide resources and support groups for patients with arthritis, helping them to understand their condition and manage their symptoms effectively.

**Telehealth Capabilities at Mission**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for accessing healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Mission Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This can be especially beneficial for arthritis patients, as it reduces the need for frequent travel to the hospital. Telehealth appointments can be used for follow-up visits, medication management, and patient education. The hospital has increased its telehealth utilization by approximately 20% in the last year, reflecting the growing demand for virtual care.

**AdventHealth Hendersonville: Another Option**

AdventHealth Hendersonville, located approximately an hour from Highlands, NC, provides another option for arthritis patients. While smaller than Mission Hospital, it offers a range of services, including rheumatology consultations. The hospital's rheumatology department provides diagnosis, treatment, and management of various arthritis conditions.

AdventHealth Hendersonville holds a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Mission Hospital. The hospital's focus on patient satisfaction and safety contributes to this rating.

**ER Wait Times and Access at AdventHealth**

ER wait times at AdventHealth Hendersonville are generally shorter than at Mission Hospital. The hospital is committed to providing timely care to patients, and its ER staff works to minimize wait times. However, wait times can still vary depending on patient volume and the complexity of the cases.

**Specialty Care and Support at AdventHealth**

AdventHealth Hendersonville has a rehabilitation center that offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other services to help arthritis patients improve their mobility and manage their pain. The hospital also provides patient education programs and support groups to help patients cope with their condition.

**Telehealth at AdventHealth**

AdventHealth Hendersonville has also invested in telehealth services, allowing patients to access care remotely. This can be particularly helpful for follow-up appointments and medication management. The hospital has seen a 15% increase in telehealth appointments over the past year, demonstrating the growing acceptance of virtual care.

**Considering Greenville, SC: Expanding the Search**

Greenville, South Carolina, offers additional healthcare options within a reasonable driving distance of Highlands, NC. Greenville Health System (now Prisma Health) is a large healthcare network with multiple hospitals and specialized centers.

**Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital: A Comprehensive Resource**

Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital is a major medical center with a comprehensive rheumatology department. The hospital has a team of experienced rheumatologists who provide diagnosis, treatment, and management of a wide range of arthritis conditions. The hospital offers advanced diagnostic tools, including MRI and CT scans, to accurately assess patients' conditions.

Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital is committed to improving its quality of care and patient safety.

**ER Wait Times at Prisma Health**

ER wait times at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital can vary depending on patient volume. The hospital strives to provide timely care to all patients.

**Specialized Services and Support at Prisma Health**

Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital offers a range of specialized services that can benefit arthritis patients. The hospital's orthopedic department provides comprehensive care for musculoskeletal conditions, including joint replacements. The hospital also has physical therapy and occupational therapy services to help patients manage their pain and improve their function.

**Telehealth at Prisma Health**

Prisma Health has a robust telehealth program, offering patients access to specialists remotely. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management. Telehealth utilization has increased significantly in the last two years.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for arthritis care, patients should consider several factors. The availability of board-certified rheumatologists is crucial. The hospital's access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and CT scans, is also important. The availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is essential for rehabilitation and pain management.

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Patients should also consider the hospital's location and accessibility, as well as the availability of telehealth services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Arthritis patients near ZIP code 28747 have several options for healthcare, with Mission Hospital in Asheville and AdventHealth Hendersonville being the closest and most readily accessible. Greenville, SC, offers additional resources. Each hospital has its strengths and weaknesses. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital. Researching the rheumatology departments, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities of each facility will help patients make informed decisions and receive the best possible care. Regular communication with their primary care physician is also essential to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.