28551, La Grange, North Carolina Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 28551, La Grange, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28551**

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during an acute attack. This review focuses on hospitals near the 28551 ZIP code (Jacksonville, North Carolina), providing a fact-rich assessment based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower individuals with asthma and their families to make informed healthcare decisions.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review utilizes a modified "Asthma Score" framework, considering factors relevant to asthma management. These include hospital quality ratings (CMS Star Ratings), Emergency Room (ER) wait times, availability of specialized asthma and pulmonary centers, telehealth services for asthma management, and overall hospital resources. The goal is to present a comprehensive picture of each hospital's capacity to handle asthma cases.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape in and around Jacksonville, NC**

The 28551 ZIP code is located in Onslow County, North Carolina. The primary healthcare providers in this area include:

**1. Naval Hospital Jacksonville (Not Directly in 28551, but Serving the Area)**

Naval Hospital Jacksonville (NH Jax) is a significant healthcare provider for military personnel, their families, and retirees in the Jacksonville area. While not directly within the 28551 ZIP code, it is a major resource for the community.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Naval Hospital Jacksonville does not have a CMS star rating, as it is a military hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times for NH Jax is not publicly available. However, military hospitals often prioritize patients based on their status and the severity of their condition.
* **Specialty Centers:** NH Jax likely has a pulmonary department and resources to manage asthma. Information on specific specialty centers and programs is best obtained directly from the hospital.
* **Telehealth:** The Department of Defense has expanded telehealth services. It is advisable to check with NH Jax for asthma-specific telehealth offerings.

**2. Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, NC)**

Onslow Memorial Hospital is the primary civilian hospital serving Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. It is a crucial resource for the local community.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Onslow Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects overall hospital quality based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** According to recent data, the average ER wait time at Onslow Memorial Hospital is around 20-30 minutes. However, wait times can fluctuate based on the time of day, day of the week, and the number of patients seeking care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Onslow Memorial Hospital has a pulmonary department, which provides care for asthma and other respiratory conditions. The hospital likely has resources for asthma management, including diagnostic testing, medication administration, and patient education.
* **Telehealth:** Onslow Memorial Hospital has been expanding its telehealth services, including virtual visits. It is advisable to contact the hospital directly to inquire about asthma-specific telehealth programs.

**3. Other Potential Healthcare Options**

* **Urgent Care Clinics:** Several urgent care clinics operate in the Jacksonville area. These clinics can be a convenient option for less severe asthma exacerbations. However, they may not have the same level of resources as a hospital ER.
* **Primary Care Physicians:** Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is essential for long-term asthma management. Your primary care physician can provide ongoing care, medication refills, and referrals to specialists if needed.

**Detailed Analysis of Key Factors**

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. A higher star rating indicates better overall performance. However, it's important to consider that these ratings are based on specific metrics and may not fully capture the nuances of asthma care.

**ER Wait Times: Time is of the Essence**

ER wait times are a critical factor during an asthma attack. Shorter wait times can lead to faster treatment and better outcomes. Publicly available data on ER wait times can provide an estimate, but it's always best to call the hospital or check their website for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise Matters**

Hospitals with specialized asthma and pulmonary centers often have more resources and expertise in managing asthma. These centers may offer specialized diagnostic testing, advanced treatments, and patient education programs.

**Telehealth: Convenience and Access**

Telehealth services can be a valuable tool for asthma management, particularly for routine follow-up appointments and medication management. Telehealth can also provide access to care for patients who live in remote areas or have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Hospital Resources: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond the specific factors mentioned above, it's important to consider the overall resources of the hospital. This includes the availability of:

* **Pulmonary specialists:** Board-certified pulmonologists are essential for managing complex asthma cases.
* **Respiratory therapists:** Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in providing breathing treatments and monitoring patients' respiratory status.
* **Asthma educators:** Asthma educators can provide patients with valuable information about asthma management, including medication use, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans.
* **Intensive care unit (ICU):** For severe asthma exacerbations, access to an ICU is essential.
* **Medication availability:** Ensure the hospital has a sufficient supply of asthma medications, including rescue inhalers and oral corticosteroids.

**Making Informed Decisions: Key Takeaways**

* **Prioritize Proactive Management:** The best way to manage asthma is to work with your primary care physician or a pulmonologist to develop an asthma action plan. This plan should outline steps to take during an asthma exacerbation.
* **Know Your Triggers:** Identify your asthma triggers and take steps to avoid them. Common triggers include allergens, irritants, and respiratory infections.
* **Prepare for Emergencies:** Keep your rescue inhaler readily available and know how to use it. Also, know the location of the nearest hospital and urgent care clinics.
* **Consider Proximity and Wait Times:** During an asthma attack, time is critical. Consider the proximity of the hospital to your location and the potential ER wait times.
* **Inquire About Telehealth Options:** Ask your healthcare provider about telehealth services for asthma management. Telehealth can be a convenient way to receive care and manage your asthma.
* **Contact Hospitals Directly:** Contact the hospitals directly to gather more specific information about their asthma services, including specialty centers, telehealth programs, and patient education resources.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a critical decision. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near the 28551 ZIP code. By considering the factors discussed above, individuals with asthma and their families can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the best possible care. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and to develop an asthma action plan that meets your individual needs. This is not medical advice. Always consult with your physician.