27263, High Point, North Carolina COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 27263, High Point, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Care in the Piedmont Triad: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 27263

Finding the right healthcare for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is crucial, especially in a region like the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, where respiratory illnesses can be exacerbated by seasonal changes and environmental factors. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 27263 (High Point, NC), evaluating their COPD care capabilities based on available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. This information is intended to help patients and their families make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Piedmont Triad is served by a network of hospitals, ranging from large, multi-specialty facilities to smaller community hospitals. Proximity to major medical centers in Greensboro and Winston-Salem expands the options for specialized COPD care. Evaluating hospitals requires considering factors beyond just location, including the expertise of pulmonologists, access to advanced diagnostic tools, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs.

**Cone Health System: A Major Player**

Cone Health, with its flagship hospital, **Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital** in Greensboro, is a significant presence in the region. Moses Cone Memorial Hospital, a large tertiary care center, holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and outcomes. While not the highest rating, it’s a benchmark to consider.

Moses Cone offers a dedicated pulmonary department with board-certified pulmonologists. They provide a range of services, including diagnostic testing like pulmonary function tests (PFTs), bronchoscopy, and advanced imaging. The hospital also features a pulmonary rehabilitation program, which is essential for COPD management. These programs help patients improve lung function, manage symptoms, and enhance their quality of life.

**ER Wait Times at Moses Cone:** While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, historical data suggests an average wait time that is generally in line with, or slightly better than, the national average. Patients should consult the Cone Health website or other online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth at Cone Health:** Cone Health has invested in telehealth services, which can be particularly beneficial for COPD patients. Telehealth allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations with pulmonologists, and access to educational resources. This can help patients manage their condition more effectively and reduce the need for frequent hospital visits. The extent of COPD-specific telehealth offerings should be confirmed with the hospital directly.

**Novant Health: Another Key Provider**

**Novant Health** also operates in the region, with **Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center** in Winston-Salem as a major referral center. While not directly within ZIP code 27263, it's a reasonable distance for many High Point residents. Forsyth Medical Center is a large, multi-specialty hospital with a **4-star CMS rating**. This higher rating suggests a stronger performance across various quality metrics.

Forsyth Medical Center boasts a comprehensive pulmonary department. They offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for COPD, including access to specialized procedures. The hospital also has a robust pulmonary rehabilitation program.

**ER Wait Times at Forsyth Medical Center:** Similar to Moses Cone, ER wait times at Forsyth Medical Center vary. Checking the Novant Health website or using online tools for real-time updates is recommended.

**Telehealth at Novant Health:** Novant Health has significantly expanded its telehealth capabilities. They offer virtual visits with pulmonologists, remote monitoring programs, and educational resources for COPD patients. The availability of specific COPD-focused telehealth services should be verified with the hospital.

**Other Hospitals in the Area:**

**High Point Medical Center:** Located within High Point, this hospital is a key option for residents of ZIP code 27263. High Point Medical Center, part of the Novant Health system, provides a range of services, including pulmonary care. Patients should inquire about their specific COPD services and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation. The CMS star rating for High Point Medical Center is currently unavailable.

**Community Hospital Considerations:**

Smaller community hospitals in the area may offer basic pulmonary services and can be a good option for initial care and follow-up appointments. However, they may not have the same level of specialized expertise or advanced diagnostic capabilities as larger hospitals. Patients with complex COPD cases may need to be referred to a larger facility.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond general hospital services, consider the availability of specialized programs. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are crucial for managing COPD. These programs typically include exercise training, education about COPD management, and support groups. Inquire about the availability of these programs at each hospital.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times are a significant concern, especially for COPD patients who may experience acute exacerbations. Long wait times can lead to delayed treatment and potentially worsen outcomes. Checking real-time wait times through hospital websites or third-party apps is crucial.

**Access to Specialists:**

The availability of board-certified pulmonologists is paramount. Ensure the hospital has a sufficient number of pulmonologists with expertise in COPD diagnosis, treatment, and management. Ask about the pulmonologists' experience and their specific areas of expertise.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as PFTs, bronchoscopy, and advanced imaging (CT scans), is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of COPD. Confirm that the hospital has the necessary equipment and expertise to perform these tests.

**Telehealth: The Future of COPD Care:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in COPD management. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and access to educational resources. Inquire about the hospital's telehealth offerings and whether they have specific programs tailored to COPD patients.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan and that the services you need are covered. Check with your insurance provider for details about coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:**

Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the quality of care and patient experience at each hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report can provide valuable information.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital for COPD care requires careful consideration of several factors. Evaluate the hospitals based on their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, the expertise of their pulmonologists, the availability of specialized programs like pulmonary rehabilitation, their telehealth offerings, and patient reviews. Contact the hospitals directly to gather specific information about their services and to ask any questions you may have. Remember to consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision. This review provides a starting point for your research; a consultation with your primary care physician or a pulmonologist is crucial for personalized recommendations.