28383, Rowland, North Carolina Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 28383, Rowland, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Decoding the Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28383

Finding the right hospital for asthma care near Spring Lake, North Carolina (ZIP code 28383) requires more than just proximity. It demands a deep dive into quality metrics, specialized resources, and accessibility. This review analyzes the leading healthcare providers in the area, focusing on their asthma-related services and overall performance, offering a comprehensive "Asthma Score" to guide your decision-making.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 28383 ZIP code are anchored by larger hospital systems that extend their reach through various clinics and outpatient facilities. These systems include Cape Fear Valley Health, and FirstHealth of the Carolinas. Each offers a range of services, but their asthma care capabilities and overall quality vary.

**Cape Fear Valley Health: A Regional Powerhouse**

Cape Fear Valley Health operates several facilities within a reasonable distance of Spring Lake, including Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville, which is the flagship hospital. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a large, acute-care facility, is a major player in the region. As of the latest available data, it holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of care that meets federal standards.

**Asthma-Specific Services at Cape Fear Valley**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers a dedicated respiratory care department. This department is crucial for asthma management, providing treatments like nebulizer therapy and other breathing treatments. The hospital’s emergency room (ER) is a critical point of access for acute asthma exacerbations. **ER wait times** are a significant factor in asthma care, as rapid intervention can prevent severe complications. While specific, publicly available ER wait times for Cape Fear Valley Medical Center fluctuate, it is advisable to check the hospital's website or call directly for the most current data.

**FirstHealth of the Carolinas: A Network of Care**

FirstHealth of the Carolinas, with its flagship hospital, Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, also provides healthcare access for residents near 28383. While Moore Regional Hospital is located further away, its reputation and specialized services are worth considering. FirstHealth is known for its comprehensive approach to healthcare, which includes a focus on chronic disease management.

**Moore Regional Hospital: Assessing Quality**

Moore Regional Hospital boasts a **4-star CMS rating**, a testament to its higher performance compared to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. This rating suggests better outcomes and a stronger focus on patient safety. This is a significant factor when evaluating care.

**Asthma Care at FirstHealth**

FirstHealth's respiratory care services are available at Moore Regional Hospital and throughout its network of clinics. The hospital has respiratory therapists and pulmonologists on staff to address asthma cases. The hospital also offers pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which can be invaluable for long-term asthma management.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

ER wait times are also a crucial factor to consider. The FirstHealth system, like Cape Fear Valley, has fluctuating ER wait times. It is best to check their website or call for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Resources: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized centers and resources can significantly impact asthma care. While neither Cape Fear Valley nor FirstHealth have dedicated, standalone asthma centers, both systems offer access to pulmonologists and allergists.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth offer telehealth services, including virtual appointments with physicians. This is valuable for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education. Check with each provider for the specific telehealth options available, including the types of appointments offered and the technology used.

**Outpatient Clinics and Primary Care: The Front Lines of Asthma Management**

Asthma care often begins with primary care physicians and outpatient clinics. Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth have extensive networks of primary care providers in the area. These providers can diagnose asthma, develop treatment plans, and provide ongoing management.

**Asthma Education and Support**

Both hospital systems offer asthma education programs, which are crucial for patients and their families. These programs teach patients how to manage their condition, recognize triggers, and administer medications correctly.

**Analyzing the Data: The Asthma Score Framework**

To provide a comparative assessment, we'll use an "Asthma Score" framework, evaluating each hospital based on the following criteria:

* **CMS Star Rating (Weight: 30%):** Reflects overall hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times (Weight: 20%):** Critical for acute asthma episodes.
* **Specialty Services (Weight: 20%):** Availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists.
* **Telehealth Availability (Weight: 15%):** Facilitates convenient follow-up care.
* **Asthma Education Programs (Weight: 15%):** Empowering patients to manage their condition.

**Applying the Asthma Score**

Based on the information available, here's a preliminary assessment:

* **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center:**
* CMS Star Rating: 3 stars (Score: 3/5)
* ER Wait Times: Variable (Score: 3/5)
* Specialty Services: Pulmonology and respiratory care available (Score: 4/5)
* Telehealth: Available (Score: 4/5)
* Asthma Education: Available (Score: 4/5)
* **Overall Asthma Score: 3.5/5**

* **Moore Regional Hospital (FirstHealth):**
* CMS Star Rating: 4 stars (Score: 4/5)
* ER Wait Times: Variable (Score: 3/5)
* Specialty Services: Pulmonology and respiratory care available (Score: 4/5)
* Telehealth: Available (Score: 4/5)
* Asthma Education: Available (Score: 4/5)
* **Overall Asthma Score: 3.8/5**

**Important Considerations and Caveats**

* **Data Fluctuations:** Hospital ratings and ER wait times can change. Always verify the most current information directly with the hospitals.
* **Individual Needs:** The "best" hospital depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like proximity, insurance coverage, and personal experiences.
* **Physician Relationships:** The relationship with your pulmonologist or primary care physician is crucial. Discuss your options with them to determine the best fit.
* **Accessibility:** While this review focuses on hospitals, consider the accessibility of outpatient clinics and specialists in your area.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a critical decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating the options near ZIP code 28383. Moore Regional Hospital, with its higher CMS rating, edges out Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in this assessment. However, Cape Fear Valley remains a viable option, especially for those seeking a closer location. Remember to conduct your own research, verify information, and consult with your healthcare providers to make the best decision for your specific needs. The "Asthma Score" is a tool, not a definitive answer. It is a guide to help you find the best possible care for your asthma management needs.