27967, Powellsville, North Carolina COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 27967, Powellsville, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## COPD Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Manteo, NC (ZIP Code 27967)

Finding the right healthcare for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can be a daunting task. This review focuses on the hospitals and healthcare resources available near Manteo, North Carolina (ZIP code 27967), providing a fact-rich overview to help patients and their families navigate the complexities of respiratory care. We will consider factors crucial for COPD patients, including hospital quality metrics, access to specialized services, and the availability of telehealth options.

**The Local Landscape: Limited Options, Regional Reach**

The immediate vicinity of Manteo, a town on the Outer Banks, presents a limited selection of hospitals. Residents often rely on regional healthcare systems for more comprehensive care. This necessitates understanding the reach and capabilities of facilities within a reasonable driving distance.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (Elizabeth City, NC): The Primary Hub**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, located in Elizabeth City (approximately a 1-hour drive from Manteo), serves as a primary healthcare provider for the region. While not directly in the immediate vicinity, it's a critical access point for specialized care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Albemarle Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on measures like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Room:** The ER wait times at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center fluctuate, but the hospital strives to meet the national average. Specific wait times can be found on the hospital's website or through real-time tracking tools.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers a range of pulmonary services, including diagnostic testing (spirometry, lung function tests), respiratory therapy, and management of chronic respiratory conditions. The availability of specialized COPD programs should be confirmed directly with the hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Sentara Healthcare, the parent organization, has expanded its telehealth offerings. Patients should inquire about virtual consultations with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. This can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments and managing COPD exacerbations.

**Vidant Chowan Hospital (Edenton, NC): Another Regional Option**

Another hospital within a reasonable driving distance is Vidant Chowan Hospital in Edenton, NC. This facility is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive from Manteo.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Chowan Hospital also holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room:** Similar to Sentara Albemarle, ER wait times at Vidant Chowan Hospital should be checked via their website or local healthcare information resources.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Vidant Chowan Hospital provides pulmonary services, including diagnostic testing and respiratory therapy. The scope of their COPD-specific programs should be verified directly with the hospital.
* **Telehealth:** Vidant Health, the parent organization, offers telehealth services. Inquire about virtual consultations with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.

**Beyond the Immediate Area: Expanding the Search**

While Sentara Albemarle and Vidant Chowan are the closest hospitals, patients may need to consider facilities further afield to access more specialized care or advanced treatments.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Regional Referral Center**

Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, NC (approximately a 2-hour drive) is a regional referral center and the flagship hospital of the Vidant Health system. It offers a broader range of specialized services and may be a better option for complex COPD cases.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room:** As a larger facility, ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can be longer. Real-time tracking tools are available.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Vidant Medical Center boasts a more comprehensive pulmonary department, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized programs for COPD management. They may offer advanced diagnostic procedures and access to clinical trials.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vidant Medical Center likely has specialized centers for respiratory care, such as a dedicated pulmonary rehabilitation program. Inquire about their specific offerings for COPD patients.
* **Telehealth:** Vidant Health offers robust telehealth options, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**Duke University Hospital (Durham, NC): A Flagship Option (Further Afield)**

Duke University Hospital in Durham, NC (approximately a 3-hour drive) is a nationally recognized flagship hospital. It's a significant option for patients seeking the highest level of specialized care, although the travel distance is substantial.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Duke University Hospital consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving 5-star status. This reflects its commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **Emergency Room:** As a major academic medical center, ER wait times at Duke can vary. Real-time tracking tools are available.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Duke has a world-renowned pulmonary department with leading experts in COPD research and treatment. They offer advanced diagnostic capabilities, cutting-edge therapies, and access to clinical trials.
* **Specialty Centers:** Duke likely has specialized centers for COPD, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs, lung transplant services, and research facilities.
* **Telehealth:** Duke Health offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**UNC Medical Center (Chapel Hill, NC): Another Flagship Option (Further Afield)**

UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, NC (approximately a 3-hour drive) is another nationally recognized flagship hospital. It offers a comprehensive range of services and is a strong option for complex COPD cases.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UNC Medical Center consistently receives high ratings from CMS, often achieving 5-star status.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times at UNC Medical Center can vary. Real-time tracking tools are available.
* **Pulmonary Services:** UNC has a highly regarded pulmonary department with a focus on research and patient care. They offer advanced diagnostic capabilities, cutting-edge therapies, and access to clinical trials.
* **Specialty Centers:** UNC likely has specialized centers for COPD, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs, lung transplant services, and research facilities.
* **Telehealth:** UNC Health Care offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**Critical Considerations for COPD Patients**

Beyond hospital ratings and services, several factors are particularly important for COPD patients:

* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are crucial for improving lung function, reducing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life. Inquire about the availability of these programs at each hospital.
* **Respiratory Therapy:** Access to experienced respiratory therapists is essential for managing COPD exacerbations and providing ongoing support.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure the hospital has a pharmacy and staff who are knowledgeable about COPD medications and can provide medication education.
* **Patient Education:** Access to patient education resources is vital for understanding COPD, managing symptoms, and preventing complications.
* **Support Groups:** Consider the availability of local COPD support groups for emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

**Telehealth: A Valuable Tool**

Telehealth plays an increasingly important role in COPD care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Consultations with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists from the comfort of home.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Monitoring of vital signs and symptoms using wearable devices.
* **Medication Management:** Medication reviews and adjustments via virtual platforms.
* **Education and Support:** Access to educational resources and support groups online.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

For residents of Manteo (ZIP code 27967), accessing specialized COPD care requires careful consideration of available resources. While the immediate area has limited options, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center and Vidant Chowan Hospital provide essential services. For more specialized care, patients may need to travel to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, Duke University Hospital in Durham, or UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill. Patients should prioritize hospitals with strong CMS ratings, comprehensive pulmonary services, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and robust telehealth options. By understanding the available resources and considering individual needs, COPD patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and improve their quality of life. Remember to directly contact each hospital to verify specific services, program availability, and insurance coverage.