27884, Stokes, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 27884, Stokes, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Tarboro, NC (ZIP Code 27884)

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Tarboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27884), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We’ll examine flagship hospitals, their CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. This information is current as of late October 2024, but remember to always confirm details directly with the hospitals as information changes.

**Defining the Scope:**

The primary focus will be on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Tarboro. This includes those in Greenville, Rocky Mount, and potentially Wilson, NC. The "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on a combination of publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, patient reviews (where available), and information on specialized services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

**Vidant Medical Center, Greenville, NC:**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville, is a major regional referral center and the flagship hospital for Vidant Health. It is the most significant healthcare provider in the immediate area for residents of 27884. Vidant Medical Center is a Level I Trauma Center, equipped to handle the most critical emergencies.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects performance across several quality measures, including mortality rates, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a facility that generally meets national standards.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can fluctuate. Publicly available data suggests average wait times, but it's crucial to check real-time data through online portals or by calling the hospital directly, especially during peak hours. Expect longer wait times during evenings and weekends.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vidant Medical Center boasts a wide array of specialty centers. These include a comprehensive heart and vascular center, a cancer center offering advanced treatments, a dedicated women's health pavilion, and a children's hospital. The hospital also has specialized units for stroke care, intensive care, and burn treatment.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Vidant Health has significantly invested in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. Telehealth can be a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and consultations. The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specific provider and insurance coverage.
* **Overall Health Score Assessment:** Vidant Medical Center serves as a critical resource for the region. While the 3-star CMS rating warrants consideration, its comprehensive services, including its Level I Trauma designation, are significant assets. The availability of telehealth is also a positive factor.

**UNC Health Southeastern, Lumberton, NC:**

UNC Health Southeastern, though further afield, is another facility that could serve residents of 27884. It is part of the UNC Health system, which is known for its commitment to quality care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UNC Health Southeastern's CMS rating is not readily available.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times vary. It's essential to check real-time data.
* **Specialty Centers:** UNC Health Southeastern provides a range of services, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** UNC Health Southeastern offers telehealth services.
* **Overall Health Score Assessment:** The lack of a readily available CMS rating makes a full assessment difficult.

**Nash UNC Health Care, Rocky Mount, NC:**

Nash UNC Health Care in Rocky Mount provides another healthcare option, being closer to Tarboro than Greenville.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Nash UNC Health Care has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are variable.
* **Specialty Centers:** Nash UNC Health Care offers a variety of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Nash UNC Health Care offers telehealth services.
* **Overall Health Score Assessment:** Similar to Vidant, the 3-star CMS rating is a point to consider. The proximity to Tarboro makes it a convenient option.

**Other Considerations:**

Smaller hospitals and urgent care centers exist in the surrounding area, but they generally offer a more limited scope of services. These can be appropriate for minor illnesses and injuries, but for serious conditions, referral to a larger hospital like Vidant Medical Center is often necessary.

**Factors Influencing the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" is influenced by several factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** This is a key indicator of overall quality, but it's important to remember that it's just one metric.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are generally preferable, especially in emergency situations.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and trauma services, is crucial.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can improve access to care and convenience.
* **Patient Reviews:** While subjective, patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates adherence to quality standards.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision. Consider the following when making your choice:

* **Your specific healthcare needs:** Do you have a chronic condition that requires specialized care? Are you looking for a hospital with a particular specialty?
* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel?
* **Insurance coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?
* **Patient reviews:** Read online reviews to get a sense of other patients' experiences.
* **Consult with your primary care physician:** They can provide recommendations based on your individual needs.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of 27884, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville stands out as the primary regional healthcare hub, offering a comprehensive range of services and a Level I Trauma Center. Nash UNC Health Care in Rocky Mount offers a closer option. While the CMS ratings of 3 stars for Vidant and Nash UNC Health Care are not the highest possible, they still indicate a generally acceptable level of care. Consider the factors outlined above, research your options, and consult with your doctor to make the best healthcare choices for your specific needs. Remember to always verify information directly with the hospitals, as details can change.