27872, Roxobel, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 27872, Roxobel, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Tarboro, NC (ZIP Code 27872)

The search for quality healthcare is a constant, and for residents near Tarboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27872), understanding the landscape is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from hospital ratings to specialist availability, offering a snapshot of the medical resources accessible in the area. This is not a definitive ranking, but a comprehensive overview to aid informed decision-making.

**Primary Hospital Hubs: A Focus on Edgecombe County**

The primary hospital serving the 27872 ZIP code is **Vidant Edgecombe Hospital** in Tarboro. This facility is the most immediate point of care for residents. However, its CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a critical consideration. As of the latest available data, Vidant Edgecombe Hospital's star rating is **three stars**. This rating reflects a composite of factors, including patient experience, safety of care, and efficiency of care. While a three-star rating indicates a level of performance, it's important to understand the specific strengths and weaknesses outlined in the CMS data.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: Wait Times and Capacity**

Emergency room wait times are a vital indicator of a hospital's ability to handle immediate needs. Information on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it's essential to seek the most current data. Data from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provides real-time information on ER wait times. The wait times at Vidant Edgecombe Hospital are usually available on the hospital’s website. This data allows patients to gauge the potential wait time and make informed decisions, especially in urgent situations.

**Specialty Services: Access to Specialized Care**

Beyond general care, the availability of specialized medical services is a significant factor in the overall health score. Vidant Edgecombe Hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. However, for more complex cases or specialized treatments, residents may need to travel to larger facilities.

**Flagship Hospitals: Exploring Regional Options**

The nearest flagship hospitals, offering a broader spectrum of specialized care, are located in Greenville, NC, approximately 40 minutes away. These hospitals, including **Vidant Medical Center**, provide a higher level of care. Vidant Medical Center, the flagship hospital for Vidant Health, boasts a **four-star CMS rating**. This rating reflects higher performance across multiple categories.

**Vidant Medical Center: A Deeper Dive**

Vidant Medical Center, a Level I Trauma Center, offers a comprehensive range of services. It includes advanced cardiac care, a dedicated cancer center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a specialized children's hospital. Its larger size and more extensive resources mean a greater capacity to handle complex medical cases.

**ER Dynamics at Vidant Medical Center**

The ER at Vidant Medical Center is a high-volume facility. ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the cases. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time updates on ER wait times, allowing patients to assess the situation before arriving.

**Specialty Centers at Vidant Medical Center**

Vidant Medical Center houses several specialty centers, including the James and Connie Maynard Children's Hospital, the Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center, and a comprehensive cardiovascular program. These centers offer specialized expertise and advanced treatment options. The cancer center provides advanced treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The cardiovascular program offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and interventional procedures.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Vidant Health, including Vidant Edgecombe Hospital and Vidant Medical Center, has invested in telehealth capabilities. These services allow patients to access medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and specialist consultations remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who have mobility issues or live in remote areas. The availability of telehealth services increases access to care and reduces the need for travel.

**Mental Health Services: A Critical Component**

Mental health services are an essential part of overall health. Both Vidant Edgecombe Hospital and Vidant Medical Center offer mental health services. These services include inpatient psychiatric care, outpatient therapy, and counseling services. The availability of mental health services is critical for addressing the needs of the community.

**Other Hospitals and Clinics: Complementary Care**

Beyond the primary hospitals, the area offers other healthcare options. Numerous clinics and physician practices provide primary care, specialist consultations, and urgent care services. These facilities play a crucial role in the healthcare ecosystem, offering convenient access to routine medical care.

**Access to Specialists: Beyond the Local Hospitals**

The availability of specialists is a critical factor in the overall health score. Residents of the 27872 ZIP code have access to a range of specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and surgeons. However, the concentration of specialists may be greater in Greenville, necessitating travel for certain specialized consultations or procedures.

**Patient Experience: A Vital Consideration**

Patient experience is a crucial component of healthcare quality. The CMS Hospital Compare website provides patient experience data, including ratings on communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment. This data can help patients assess the quality of care they can expect to receive.

**Cost of Care: Navigating Healthcare Finances**

The cost of healthcare is a significant concern for patients. The cost of care can vary depending on the hospital, the type of services provided, and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should inquire about the cost of services before receiving care. The hospital's billing department can provide information on the cost of services and payment options.

**Preventive Care: A Foundation for Health**

Preventive care is essential for maintaining good health. The healthcare providers in the 27872 ZIP code offer a range of preventive services, including vaccinations, screenings, and health education. Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect health problems early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

**Community Health Initiatives: Supporting Wellness**

Community health initiatives play a crucial role in promoting overall health. The healthcare providers in the area often partner with community organizations to offer health education programs, screenings, and other services. These initiatives can help improve the health of the community.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary Assessment**

The overall health score for residents near the 27872 ZIP code reflects a landscape of both strengths and areas for improvement. Vidant Edgecombe Hospital provides essential local care, while Vidant Medical Center in Greenville offers a higher level of specialized services. The three-star CMS rating for Vidant Edgecombe Hospital highlights the need to consider the quality of care. The four-star CMS rating for Vidant Medical Center offers a positive indicator of quality. Access to specialty services is generally good, but some may require travel. Telehealth services are expanding access, and community health initiatives are working to promote wellness. The most important factor for residents is to understand their individual needs and to make informed decisions about where to seek care. The best approach is to research specific providers, consider the CMS ratings, evaluate ER wait times, assess the availability of specialists, and understand the cost of care.