27261, High Point, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 27261, High Point, North Carolina is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Greensboro, NC (27261)

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health crisis. For residents near Greensboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27261), the landscape offers a range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, to help you make an informed choice.

**The Big Players: Cone Health and Atrium Health**

The dominant healthcare providers in the region are Cone Health and Atrium Health, both offering a network of hospitals and clinics. These systems are the primary contenders for your healthcare needs, so a closer look is warranted.

**Cone Health: A Strong Regional Presence**

Cone Health is a well-established system with a significant presence in the Greensboro area. Its flagship hospital, **Wesley Long Hospital**, is a major player. Wesley Long boasts a strong reputation and is often a go-to for complex medical needs.

**Wesley Long Hospital:** CMS Ratings and Performance

Wesley Long Hospital has a mixed performance record based on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system. The CMS star ratings are a valuable, albeit imperfect, tool for comparing hospitals. It is important to note that the CMS ratings are based on a complex formula that considers a variety of factors, including patient experience, safety of care, and effectiveness of care.

Wesley Long has received a **3-star rating** from CMS. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. While not the highest possible rating, it signifies a generally acceptable level of care.

**ER Wait Times and Considerations:**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration, especially during emergencies. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, average wait times at Wesley Long Hospital are generally in line with regional averages. However, it's essential to understand that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Expect longer waits during peak hours and for non-life-threatening conditions.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Wesley Long Hospital offers a broad range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. It has a well-regarded cancer center and a comprehensive heart program. The hospital is also known for its maternity services.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Cone Health has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring options. This can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication management, and certain types of consultations. The availability and scope of telehealth services vary depending on the specialty and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Other Cone Health Facilities:**

Cone Health also operates other hospitals and facilities in the area, including **Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital**, which is a larger facility that often handles a higher volume of patients. It is important to research each facility individually to understand its specific strengths and weaknesses.

**Atrium Health: Expanding Its Reach**

Atrium Health, another major healthcare provider, has a growing presence in the Greensboro area. The system has been expanding its footprint and services, offering patients additional options.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center:**

Atrium Health's flagship hospital, **Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center** in Winston-Salem, is a Level 1 Trauma Center and a nationally recognized medical center. This is a significant advantage for complex medical cases and emergencies.

**CMS Ratings and Performance:**

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center has a **3-star rating** from CMS.

**ER Wait Times and Considerations:**

As a major medical center, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center often experiences longer ER wait times than smaller facilities. The volume of patients and the complexity of cases contribute to this. Patients should be prepared for potentially longer wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center offers a wide array of specialized services, including advanced surgical procedures, transplant services, and specialized care for complex conditions. Its cancer center and heart center are highly regarded.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Atrium Health has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. The system has invested heavily in telehealth to expand access to care and improve patient convenience.

**Other Atrium Health Facilities:**

Atrium Health has several other facilities in the region, including smaller hospitals and clinics. The specific services and capabilities of each facility vary.

**Smaller Hospitals and Clinics: Community Options**

Beyond the large healthcare systems, several smaller hospitals and clinics offer healthcare services in the 27261 area and surrounding communities. These facilities can provide convenient options for routine care and less complex medical needs.

**Greensboro Surgical Associates:**

Greensboro Surgical Associates provides surgical services and is a reliable option for surgical needs.

**Other Urgent Care Clinics:**

Several urgent care clinics are located in the area, offering convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries. These clinics typically have shorter wait times than hospital ERs.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

Choosing the right hospital involves several factors beyond CMS star ratings and ER wait times.

**Patient Experience:**

Patient experience is a critical aspect of healthcare. Research online reviews, talk to friends and family, and consider your own experiences to gauge the quality of care.

**Physician Expertise:**

The expertise of the physicians is paramount. Research the qualifications and experience of the doctors who will be treating you.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Ensure that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.

**Location and Accessibility:**

Consider the hospital's location and accessibility, especially if you anticipate needing frequent visits.

**Specific Needs:**

If you have specific medical needs, such as a chronic condition or a need for specialized care, research the hospital's capabilities in that area.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

For residents near 27261, the healthcare landscape offers a mix of options. Cone Health and Atrium Health are the dominant players, each with its own strengths. Wesley Long Hospital and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center offer comprehensive services. However, consider factors like ER wait times, specialty services, and patient experience. Smaller hospitals and clinics provide additional options for routine care. Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for each facility depends on individual needs and preferences. Researching each facility thoroughly, considering the factors mentioned above, and consulting with your primary care physician will help you make the best decision for your health.