27927, Corolla, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 27927, Corolla, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27927)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents of Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27927), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is crucial for making informed decisions about their health. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, to offer a comprehensive picture of the available healthcare options.

**The Landscape: Primary Players and Proximity**

The primary healthcare provider serving Elizabeth City is **Sentara Albemarle Medical Center**, located directly within the city. It's the closest and most accessible option for residents. Other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, which may be considered for specialized care or in cases of emergency, include facilities in Norfolk, Virginia, and Greenville, North Carolina. These options, while further away, can offer a wider range of specialized services.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center: The Core of Local Care**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (SAMC) is the cornerstone of healthcare in Elizabeth City. As a general acute care hospital, it offers a broad spectrum of services, including emergency care, surgery, obstetrics, and various medical specialties. Its proximity is a significant advantage, particularly in emergency situations.

**CMS Star Rating: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance across various quality measures. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, offer a publicly available benchmark for evaluating hospital quality. **At the time of this review, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center holds a three-star rating from CMS.** This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. While not the highest rating, it suggests that SAMC provides a generally acceptable level of care. It is important to note that these ratings are dynamic and can change over time, so patients should always consult the most recent CMS data.

**Emergency Room Performance: Time is of the Essence**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially in emergencies. SAMC's ER wait times, while fluctuating, are generally in line with national averages. Patients can expect to spend an average of around 30-60 minutes from arrival to being seen by a healthcare professional. However, these are averages, and individual wait times can vary significantly depending on the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. It is recommended to check the hospital's website or call ahead for the most current ER wait time estimates.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Beyond the Basics**

SAMC offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The hospital has a dedicated cardiac catheterization lab and offers advanced cardiac care. The cancer center provides comprehensive cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Orthopedic services include joint replacement and sports medicine. SAMC also provides maternity services, including labor and delivery, and a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. SAMC has embraced telehealth to some extent, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. These services can improve access to specialists, reduce the need for travel, and provide convenient follow-up care. The availability and scope of telehealth services are continually evolving, so patients should inquire directly with the hospital about specific offerings.

**Beyond Elizabeth City: Exploring Regional Options**

While SAMC is the primary healthcare provider, residents may need to seek care at hospitals further afield for specialized services or in cases of critical need.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (Norfolk, VA): A Flagship Facility**

Approximately a two-hour drive from Elizabeth City, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is a flagship facility within the Sentara Healthcare system. It is a Level I trauma center, meaning it is equipped to handle the most severe and complex medical emergencies. **Sentara Norfolk General Hospital consistently receives a five-star rating from CMS, indicating a high level of quality.** It offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac care, neurosurgery, transplant services, and a leading-edge cancer center. However, the longer travel time is a significant consideration, particularly in emergencies.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Regional Hub**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville, North Carolina, is another regional healthcare hub, approximately a one-hour and 45-minute drive from Elizabeth City. It is a Level I trauma center and a teaching hospital affiliated with East Carolina University. **Vidant Medical Center generally receives a three-star rating from CMS.** It offers a wide array of services, including specialized care in cardiology, neurology, and oncology. As a teaching hospital, it often has access to the latest medical advancements and research.

**Comparing the Options: A Summary**

| Hospital | Location | CMS Star Rating | ER Wait Times (Approx.) | Key Specialties | Telehealth Availability | Travel Time from Elizabeth City |
| :--------------------------- | :----------------------- | :-------------- | :---------------------- | :----------------------------------------------------- | :---------------------- | :----------------------------- |
| Sentara Albemarle Medical Center | Elizabeth City, NC | 3 Stars | 30-60 minutes | Cardiology, Oncology, Orthopedics, Obstetrics | Limited | Within Elizabeth City |
| Sentara Norfolk General Hospital | Norfolk, VA | 5 Stars | Varies | Trauma, Cardiac, Neurosurgery, Transplant, Oncology | Extensive | ~2 hours |
| Vidant Medical Center | Greenville, NC | 3 Stars | Varies | Trauma, Cardiology, Neurology, Oncology | Moderate | ~1 hour 45 minutes |

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

* **Proximity:** SAMC offers the most convenient access for residents of Elizabeth City.
* **Quality:** Sentara Norfolk General Hospital boasts the highest CMS star rating, indicating superior quality, but is further away.
* **Specialization:** Depending on the specific medical needs, patients may need to travel to Norfolk or Greenville for specialized care.
* **Emergency Care:** Both Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Vidant Medical Center are Level I trauma centers, providing the highest level of emergency care.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options are evolving, and patients should inquire directly with each hospital about available services.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For residents of Elizabeth City, the choice of healthcare provider depends on individual needs and circumstances. SAMC provides accessible, local care with a range of services. For specialized care or in emergencies, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Vidant Medical Center offer advanced options, albeit with longer travel times. Patients should research their specific needs, consider the CMS star ratings, and assess the ER wait times to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Furthermore, exploring the telehealth capabilities of each provider can enhance access to care and convenience. The "Overall Health Score" for the area is a composite of these factors, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each option to empower residents to navigate the healthcare system effectively.