28399, White Oak, North Carolina Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 28399, White Oak, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near ZIP Code 28399

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a complex undertaking. This review analyzes the landscape of asthma care near ZIP code 28399 (Southern Pines, NC), focusing on hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll examine key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of specialized asthma centers, providing a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

ZIP code 28399 is situated in Moore County, North Carolina. While it's not a major metropolitan area, residents have access to several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. The primary healthcare providers in the region include FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, and various smaller facilities. Access to larger, more specialized hospitals in nearby cities like Raleigh and Durham is also a factor.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital: A Local Anchor**

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, located in Pinehurst, NC, is the most immediate and accessible option for residents of 28399. This facility is a flagship hospital in the FirstHealth system, offering a wide range of medical services, including asthma care. The hospital's performance is a crucial factor in assessing the quality of care available locally.

Unfortunately, publicly available CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings for FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital are not available. CMS star ratings provide a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality, based on various factors including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. The absence of this rating makes it more challenging to gauge the hospital's performance relative to national benchmarks.

**Emergency Department (ER) Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a significant concern for asthma patients, especially during acute attacks. Prolonged waits can exacerbate symptoms and potentially lead to more severe complications. Publicly available data on ER wait times can vary depending on the source. Patients should consult the hospital's website or other sources to obtain the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Services**

The availability of specialized asthma centers and programs is a critical indicator of a hospital's commitment to asthma care. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including:

* **Pulmonology Specialists:** Board-certified pulmonologists with expertise in diagnosing and treating asthma.
* **Allergy and Immunology Services:** Access to allergists who can identify and manage asthma triggers.
* **Respiratory Therapy:** Skilled respiratory therapists who provide breathing treatments and education.
* **Asthma Education Programs:** Classes and resources to help patients manage their asthma effectively.

FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital likely has pulmonologists and respiratory therapists on staff. However, specific details about the existence of a dedicated asthma center or specialized asthma programs require further investigation. Patients should directly contact the hospital to inquire about these services.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, and secure messaging. This can be especially beneficial for:

* **Routine Check-ups:** Monitoring asthma symptoms and adjusting medication regimens.
* **Medication Refills:** Streamlining the process of obtaining necessary medications.
* **Asthma Education:** Providing patients with educational resources and support.

FirstHealth likely offers telehealth services, but the specific availability and scope of these services for asthma patients need to be confirmed. Patients should check the FirstHealth website or contact their primary care physician to learn more about telehealth options.

**Beyond Moore County: Exploring Regional Options**

While FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital is the primary local option, residents may consider hospitals in nearby cities for specialized care or a wider range of services.

**Duke University Hospital (Durham, NC): A Flagship Institution**

Duke University Hospital, located in Durham, NC, is a nationally recognized medical center. Duke is a highly-rated hospital with a 5-star CMS rating, indicating excellent overall quality. Duke's pulmonology department is renowned, and the hospital likely has specialized asthma centers and programs. However, the distance from 28399 and potential travel time should be considered.

Duke also offers extensive telehealth services, providing remote access to specialists and asthma management programs. ER wait times at Duke can be variable; patients should check the hospital's website or other sources for the most current information.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill, NC): Another Leading Choice**

UNC Medical Center, also located in North Carolina, is another leading hospital option. UNC also holds a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting its high quality of care. UNC has a strong pulmonology department and likely offers specialized asthma services. The distance from 28399 and potential travel time should be considered.

UNC also offers telehealth services, including remote asthma management programs. Patients should check the UNC website or contact their primary care physician to learn more about telehealth options.

**Assessing Accessibility: Travel Time and Transportation**

Travel time and transportation options are crucial factors in choosing a hospital, especially during an asthma emergency. Residents of 28399 should consider:

* **Distance:** The distance to each hospital and the estimated driving time.
* **Traffic Conditions:** Traffic patterns can significantly impact travel time, especially during peak hours.
* **Transportation Options:** Availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, or the need for ambulance transport.

**Insurance Coverage and Cost Considerations**

Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs are essential considerations. Patients should:

* **Verify Coverage:** Confirm that their insurance plan covers the hospital and the specific services they need.
* **Understand Costs:** Inquire about co-pays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Explore Financial Assistance:** Investigate any financial assistance programs offered by the hospital or other organizations.

**Patient Experience: A Vital Component**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. Patients should:

* **Read Patient Reviews:** Research online reviews and testimonials from other asthma patients.
* **Consider Hospital Ratings:** Pay attention to patient satisfaction scores and ratings from organizations like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS).
* **Seek Recommendations:** Ask their primary care physician or other healthcare providers for recommendations.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For residents of 28399, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital is the primary local option. While specific details about specialized asthma programs and CMS ratings are not readily available, the hospital likely offers essential services. Patients should directly contact the hospital to inquire about these services.

For more specialized care or a wider range of services, Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center are excellent choices, but require longer travel times. Patients should carefully weigh the benefits of these options against the added travel time and other considerations.

Ultimately, the best hospital for an asthma patient depends on individual needs and preferences. By considering the factors discussed in this review, patients can make informed decisions about their asthma care and find the best possible healthcare options near ZIP code 28399. Ongoing research, consultation with healthcare professionals, and a proactive approach to managing asthma are essential for optimal health outcomes.