27861, Parmele, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 27861, Parmele, North Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Rocky Mount, NC (ZIP Code 27861)

The search for quality healthcare is a constant, and for residents near Rocky Mount, North Carolina (ZIP code 27861), understanding the landscape is crucial. This review provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability. We’ll delve into the key players, focusing on data-driven insights to help residents make informed decisions.

**The Flagship: Nash UNC Health Care**

Nash UNC Health Care, located in Rocky Mount, is the primary hospital serving the 27861 area. It's a key player, and its performance significantly impacts the overall health score for the region. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Nash UNC Health Care currently holds a **3-star rating**. This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to dig deeper into specific areas.

Nash UNC Health Care’s emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical consideration. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, national averages suggest that wait times can vary. Residents should be aware of the potential for longer waits, especially during peak hours or periods of high patient volume. Accessing up-to-date wait time information through the hospital's website or local resources is advisable.

Nash UNC Health Care offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer care. It is also equipped with advanced imaging technology, including MRI and CT scans. The availability of these specialized services within the community significantly contributes to the overall health score.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Nash UNC Health Care has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions or those who have difficulty traveling to appointments. The availability of telehealth options positively impacts the health score by increasing access to care.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity: A Comparative Overview**

While Nash UNC Health Care is the primary provider, residents may seek care at hospitals in neighboring areas. These facilities can offer alternative options and specialized services.

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital, located in Tarboro, NC, is another hospital option within a reasonable driving distance. Vidant Edgecombe Hospital is part of the Vidant Health system. Its CMS star rating is not readily available, so it's important to research its specific performance metrics. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and women's health.

Wilson Medical Center, located in Wilson, NC, is another nearby hospital. Wilson Medical Center is part of the Duke LifePoint Healthcare system. Its CMS star rating is also not readily available. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, and surgical services.

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

ER wait times are a major concern for anyone needing urgent care. The national average for ER wait times is around 2-3 hours. However, wait times can fluctuate significantly based on factors like the time of day, the severity of patient conditions, and the overall patient volume.

Patients in the 27861 area should proactively seek information on ER wait times. Many hospitals provide real-time wait time updates on their websites or through mobile apps. Local news outlets and community resources may also provide this information. Shorter wait times indicate a more efficient ER, which can positively impact the overall health score.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Meeting Specific Needs**

The availability of specialized medical services is a critical factor in assessing the overall health score. Residents may require access to specialized care for conditions like heart disease, cancer, or orthopedic injuries.

Nash UNC Health Care's cancer center is a significant asset for the community. It provides comprehensive cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services. The hospital also offers cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and interventional procedures. Orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine, are also available.

For more specialized needs, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in cities like Raleigh or Durham. These centers often offer advanced treatments and specialists not available locally.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has transformed healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to access medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services from the comfort of their homes.

Nash UNC Health Care has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations with physicians and specialists. This is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, those who have difficulty traveling, or those who need convenient access to care.

The availability of telehealth services increases the overall health score by improving access to care and reducing the need for in-person visits.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Beyond clinical outcomes and wait times, patient experience is a crucial factor. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide insights into how patients perceive their care.

Nash UNC Health Care's patient satisfaction scores are available on the CMS website. These scores reflect patient feedback on various aspects of their care, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the overall hospital environment.

Positive patient experiences contribute to a higher overall health score.

**Community Resources and Support**

The overall health score is not solely determined by hospital performance. Community resources and support systems play a vital role in promoting health and well-being.

The 27861 area has various community resources, including local health departments, community health centers, and support groups. These resources provide access to preventive care, health education, and support services for specific health conditions.

The availability of these resources positively impacts the overall health score by promoting preventative care and supporting the health of the community.

**Overall Health Score Summary for 27861**

Based on the available data, the overall health score for the 27861 area is moderately positive. Nash UNC Health Care, the primary hospital, provides essential services and has a 3-star CMS rating. However, residents should be aware of potential ER wait times and proactively seek up-to-date information.

The availability of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, is a positive factor. The expansion of telehealth services further enhances access to care.

The overall health score can be improved by:

* **Monitoring and addressing ER wait times:** Hospitals should implement strategies to reduce wait times and improve efficiency.
* **Enhancing patient experience:** Hospitals should prioritize patient satisfaction and actively seek feedback to improve the quality of care.
* **Expanding telehealth offerings:** Hospitals should continue to invest in telehealth infrastructure and services to increase access to care.
* **Promoting community health initiatives:** Local health departments and community organizations should continue to provide health education and support services.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of the 27861 area have access to essential healthcare services, with Nash UNC Health Care serving as the primary provider. By considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the overall health score of their community. Continued monitoring of hospital performance, ER wait times, and the availability of specialty services is essential to ensure access to quality healthcare for all residents.