28360, Lumberton, North Carolina COPD Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the COPD Score in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Breathing Easier: A COPD Score Review for Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28360

Finding the right hospital for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care is crucial. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 28360, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help patients make informed decisions. The goal is to offer a clear picture of the landscape, allowing individuals to assess their options based on their specific needs.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 28360, encompassing the town of Raeford, North Carolina, and surrounding areas, is served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. The quality of COPD care can vary significantly between these facilities. This review will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the available options, providing a comparative analysis to aid in the decision-making process.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance**

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC):** Located approximately 20 miles from Raeford, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a major regional player. It boasts a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest rating, it indicates an overall average performance in areas like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and responsiveness. Cape Fear Valley has a dedicated pulmonary medicine department, offering comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for COPD. Their ER wait times are a critical factor. Data from recent months show an average wait time of approximately 45-60 minutes, which can be a significant concern for COPD patients experiencing exacerbations. The hospital has invested in telehealth, offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments and medication management. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas like Raeford, reducing the need for frequent travel.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst, NC):** Situated about 30 miles from Raeford, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital is another prominent option. It holds a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher level of overall quality compared to Cape Fear Valley. The hospital’s pulmonary department is well-regarded, offering specialized services including pulmonary rehabilitation programs. ER wait times at Moore Regional are generally shorter than at Cape Fear Valley, often averaging around 30-45 minutes. The hospital has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual access to specialists and remote monitoring for patients with chronic conditions. They have a strong focus on patient education, providing resources and support for managing COPD effectively.

**Womack Army Medical Center (Fort Liberty, NC):** While primarily serving military personnel and their families, Womack Army Medical Center, located near Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) and about 15 miles from Raeford, is a significant healthcare provider in the region. Due to its unique patient population and reporting structure, Womack does not receive a CMS star rating in the same way as civilian hospitals. However, it offers comprehensive pulmonary services, including specialized care for veterans with COPD. ER wait times can fluctuate, often depending on the volume of patients. The hospital has a strong emphasis on integrated care and offers a range of support services for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

**Smaller Community Hospitals and Clinics:**

Several smaller community hospitals and clinics are located closer to Raeford. These facilities may offer basic COPD management and referral services. However, they often lack the specialized resources and expertise found at the larger regional medical centers. Patients with complex COPD cases or those requiring advanced interventions may need to be transferred to a larger hospital. It is essential to understand the limitations of these smaller facilities and have a plan for potential transfers.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

Beyond general pulmonary departments, some hospitals offer specialized services that are particularly relevant for COPD patients. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are a crucial component of COPD management, helping patients improve their lung function, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life. Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital offer pulmonary rehabilitation. These programs typically involve supervised exercise, education, and support groups.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

ER wait times are a crucial factor for COPD patients, especially during exacerbations. The ability to receive prompt medical attention can significantly impact outcomes. The data indicates that wait times can vary significantly between hospitals. Patients should consider this factor when choosing a hospital, especially if they are prone to frequent exacerbations. Checking real-time wait times on hospital websites or through online resources can be helpful.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important tool for managing chronic conditions like COPD. Virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online education programs can help patients manage their condition effectively, reduce hospital readmissions, and improve their quality of life. Both Cape Fear Valley and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital have invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel to the hospital.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Guide**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. While not the only factor to consider, they can be a useful starting point for evaluating hospitals. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally perform better in areas like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. However, it is important to remember that these ratings are based on publicly reported data and may not capture all aspects of hospital quality.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at different hospitals. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews offer a wealth of information about patient satisfaction, including comments about the quality of care, communication with healthcare providers, and the overall hospital environment. Reading these reviews can help patients get a better sense of what to expect at a particular hospital.

**Specific Considerations for COPD Patients**

COPD patients have specific needs that should be considered when choosing a hospital. The availability of specialized pulmonary services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation, is crucial. The hospital’s ability to provide rapid access to care during exacerbations is also essential. The hospital’s experience in managing COPD complications, such as pneumonia and respiratory failure, is another important factor.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for COPD care is a personal decision. This review has provided a fact-rich overview of the hospitals near ZIP code 28360, highlighting key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital are the primary options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Womack Army Medical Center provides care for military personnel. Smaller community hospitals offer basic services. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when making their choice. Consulting with their primary care physician or pulmonologist is crucial to developing a personalized care plan. This review is designed to empower patients with the information they need to navigate the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about their COPD care.