27919, Belvidere, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27919)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27919), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining key factors like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. The analysis focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering the needs of the community.

**The Landscape: Primary Hospitals in the Area**

The primary hospital serving the Elizabeth City area is **Sentara Albemarle Medical Center**, located directly in Elizabeth City. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it provides essential services to a rural community. While not a large, sprawling medical complex, Sentara Albemarle plays a vital role in providing immediate care. Further afield, residents may consider hospitals in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area, approximately a two-hour drive, for more specialized services.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center: A Closer Look**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center is the cornerstone of local healthcare. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, maternity care, and various diagnostic imaging capabilities. It is important to understand the limitations of a critical access hospital; it is not designed to provide the breadth of services found in a larger, tertiary care center.

**Quality Ratings and Performance Metrics**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a snapshot of overall quality. As of the latest available data, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center's CMS star rating is a 3-star rating. This rating reflects a composite score based on various factors, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency. This rating is a useful, publicly available metric to gauge overall hospital performance.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times: A Critical Indicator**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility and responsiveness. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but it is essential to have access to current information. Local sources, such as the hospital's website and third-party websites that track ER wait times, should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Shorter wait times are generally indicative of a more efficient ER.

**Specialized Services and Centers**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital also has a dedicated surgical suite. The availability of specialized services is crucial for addressing complex medical needs within the community.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Initiatives**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely. These services can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or who live in remote areas.

**Beyond Elizabeth City: Considering Regional Options**

For specialized care, residents of 27919 often look towards hospitals in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area. These hospitals offer a broader range of services and access to specialists. However, this requires a longer travel time, so it is important to weigh the benefits of specialized care against the inconvenience of travel.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** A flagship hospital in the Sentara system, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a Level I trauma center and a major referral center for the region. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, and transplant services. The hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** This hospital provides a broad range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and specialized programs. It has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

**Other Considerations: Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a vital aspect of healthcare quality. Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by CMS, provide valuable insights into how patients perceive their care. These surveys assess various aspects of the patient experience, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a critical factor, particularly for those with mobility issues or who lack reliable transportation. The availability of public transportation, as well as the ease of parking at the hospital, are important considerations.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

Healthcare costs can be a significant burden for individuals and families. Understanding the cost of services and whether the hospital accepts your insurance plan is crucial. The hospital's website and insurance provider can provide information on covered services and out-of-pocket expenses.

**Overall Health Score Assessment: Summary**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents near ZIP Code 27919 is influenced by several factors. Sentara Albemarle Medical Center provides essential services and is a crucial resource for the community. However, its status as a critical access hospital means that it may not offer the full range of specialized services available at larger hospitals.

The CMS star rating of 3 stars for Sentara Albemarle Medical Center indicates a moderate level of quality. ER wait times should be monitored closely, and residents should consult local sources for the most up-to-date information.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to hospitals in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area, such as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital or Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital. These hospitals offer a broader range of services, but the longer travel time is a factor to consider.

Telehealth services at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center are a positive development, improving access to care for those who may have difficulty traveling.

Patient experience, accessibility, and cost are also important considerations. Residents should research these factors to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Residents of 27919 should familiarize themselves with the services offered by Sentara Albemarle Medical Center and understand its limitations. For specialized care, they should be prepared to travel to hospitals in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area.

Regularly checking ER wait times and utilizing telehealth services can improve access to care. Patients should actively participate in their care by asking questions, communicating their needs, and providing feedback.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for the Elizabeth City area is a reflection of the available resources, the quality of care, and the accessibility of services. By understanding these factors and making informed choices, residents can navigate the healthcare system effectively and receive the care they need.