28543, Tarawa Terrace, North Carolina Asthma Score Hospital Score

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

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Jacksonville, NC (28543)

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. This review focuses on hospitals near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28543), offering an objective assessment based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information is designed to help you make informed decisions about your respiratory health.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Jacksonville, NC, offers a limited selection of hospitals. The primary healthcare providers serving this area are strategically positioned to address the needs of the local population and the significant military presence at Camp Lejeune. Access to specialized respiratory care might necessitate travel to larger medical centers further afield.

**Navigating the Healthcare System: Key Considerations**

When evaluating hospitals for asthma care, several factors are paramount. These include the hospital's overall quality rating, the efficiency of its emergency department, the availability of specialized respiratory services, and the integration of telehealth options.

**Hospital Profiles: A Closer Look**

**Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL):** As the primary healthcare provider for active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees in the area, NHCL is a critical resource. While specific CMS star ratings are not available for military hospitals in the same way as civilian facilities, NHCL is subject to rigorous standards of care through the Department of Defense.

* **Emergency Department:** NHCL's emergency department is a vital point of access for acute asthma exacerbations. Wait times can vary depending on patient volume and the severity of cases. However, it is important to note that wait times are often longer than civilian hospitals due to the large number of patients they serve.
* **Respiratory Services:** NHCL offers comprehensive respiratory services, including pulmonary function testing, nebulizer treatments, and access to respiratory therapists. They have a dedicated pulmonary clinic to manage chronic respiratory conditions.
* **Specialty Centers:** NHCL houses a variety of specialty clinics.
* **Telehealth:** NHCL has increased its telehealth offerings, particularly for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. This is especially useful for patients with asthma who need regular monitoring.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (OMH):** Located in Jacksonville, OMH is the primary civilian hospital serving the area. It is a community hospital that provides a range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** OMH holds a CMS star rating, which is a good indicator of overall quality of care. The rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Department:** OMH's emergency department is the primary point of access for civilian residents. ER wait times are a critical factor.
* **Respiratory Services:** OMH provides respiratory therapy services, including nebulizer treatments and oxygen therapy. They have a dedicated pulmonary clinic.
* **Specialty Centers:** OMH has specialty centers that may include pulmonary specialists.
* **Telehealth:** OMH has expanded its telehealth services.

**Further Afield: Expanding Your Options**

While NHCL and OMH are the closest options, patients might consider hospitals in larger cities for specialized care or advanced treatments.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, NC:** Located approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville, NHRMC is a larger regional medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** NHRMC has a CMS star rating.
* **Emergency Department:** NHRMC's emergency department is larger and can handle a higher volume of patients. ER wait times are available online.
* **Respiratory Services:** NHRMC offers a comprehensive pulmonary department with pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized equipment.
* **Specialty Centers:** NHRMC has specialized centers.
* **Telehealth:** NHRMC has a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations for asthma management.

**Duke University Hospital in Durham, NC:** About a three-hour drive from Jacksonville, Duke University Hospital is a nationally recognized academic medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Duke University Hospital has a high CMS star rating.
* **Emergency Department:** Duke's emergency department is a major trauma center. ER wait times can vary.
* **Respiratory Services:** Duke's pulmonary department is renowned.
* **Specialty Centers:** Duke has specialty centers.
* **Telehealth:** Duke offers extensive telehealth services.

**UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, NC:** Approximately a three-hour drive from Jacksonville, UNC Medical Center is another leading academic medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UNC Medical Center has a high CMS star rating.
* **Emergency Department:** UNC's emergency department is a Level I trauma center. ER wait times are available online.
* **Respiratory Services:** UNC's pulmonary department is highly regarded.
* **Specialty Centers:** UNC has specialty centers.
* **Telehealth:** UNC offers comprehensive telehealth services.

**Evaluating Emergency Department Performance: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in asthma care. When experiencing a severe asthma exacerbation, timely access to medical care is essential. Publicly available data on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites and through resources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient emergency department.

**The Role of Specialty Centers: Advanced Care Options**

Hospitals with specialized pulmonary centers offer access to a wider range of diagnostic and treatment options. These centers often have pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized equipment for managing complex asthma cases.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap in Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in asthma management. Virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management can help patients manage their asthma more effectively, especially those in rural areas. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can provide convenient access to respiratory specialists and ongoing support.

**Patient Experience: A Crucial Component**

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website offer patient experience data, including ratings on communication with doctors, responsiveness of staff, and overall hospital experience.

**Access to Medications and Support Services**

The availability of asthma medications and support services is also a key consideration. Hospitals should have readily available access to common asthma medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids. Additionally, hospitals with patient education programs and support groups can help patients manage their asthma more effectively.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a personal decision. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. While NHCL and OMH are the primary options in the Jacksonville area, patients with complex cases or those seeking specialized care might consider hospitals in larger cities. Always consult with your primary care physician or pulmonologist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Be sure to verify all information, as hospital services and ratings can change.