28318, Autryville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28318, Autryville, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28318

Navigating healthcare can feel like traversing a complex maze. For residents near ZIP code 28318 (Fayetteville, North Carolina), understanding the quality and accessibility of local hospitals is paramount. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.

**The Landscape: Key Players in Fayetteville**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 28318 area include Cape Fear Valley Health System, with its flagship hospital, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, and smaller facilities like Bladen County Hospital. Additionally, Womack Army Medical Center, located on Fort Liberty, serves military personnel and their families, and often provides services to the wider community.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (CFVMC) is the largest hospital in the region and a major player in the healthcare landscape. It is a sprawling facility offering a wide range of services. However, it's crucial to delve into its performance metrics to gauge its overall health score.

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

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings offer a valuable, albeit simplified, glimpse into hospital quality. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. As of the latest available data, CFVMC holds a CMS star rating. This rating reflects its performance relative to other hospitals nationwide. It is essential to remember that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle, and individual experiences can vary.

**Emergency Room Performance: Waiting for Care**

ER wait times are a critical factor for many patients. Long waits can exacerbate existing medical conditions and cause significant stress. CFVMC's ER wait times, like those of many hospitals, fluctuate. Data on median wait times, from door to provider, is available through public sources and hospital websites. Analyzing these figures provides insight into the efficiency of the ER. Shorter wait times generally indicate a more efficient and responsive emergency department.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Specific Areas**

CFVMC boasts several specialty centers. These centers offer focused care in areas such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. The presence of specialized centers often indicates a commitment to advanced medical care. For instance, the Heart & Vascular Center at CFVMC provides comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic procedures, interventional cardiology, and cardiac surgery. The Cancer Center offers comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The orthopedic program provides a range of services, from joint replacements to sports medicine.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. CFVMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues, offering convenient access to medical expertise. The availability of telehealth services contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Womack Army Medical Center: Serving the Military and Beyond**

Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC), located on Fort Liberty, is a significant healthcare provider in the region. While primarily serving military personnel and their families, WAMC also provides services to the wider community through various agreements and programs.

**WAMC: CMS Star Rating and Performance**

WAMC also has a CMS star rating. This rating reflects its performance based on the same criteria as civilian hospitals. The rating provides a comparative perspective on its quality of care.

**ER Performance at WAMC**

ER wait times at WAMC, like those at CFVMC, are subject to fluctuations. Information on median wait times is available through public sources. Shorter wait times are generally indicative of a more efficient emergency department.

**Specialty Centers at WAMC**

WAMC offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including surgical, medical, and behavioral health services. The hospital has a strong reputation for trauma care and offers specialized programs for military-related health issues.

**Telehealth at WAMC**

WAMC has embraced telehealth to enhance access to care for its patients. Telehealth services are particularly valuable for military personnel who may be stationed in remote locations or have difficulty accessing in-person appointments. The availability of telehealth services contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Bladen County Hospital: A Community Focus**

Bladen County Hospital, part of the Cape Fear Valley Health System, serves the smaller community of Bladen County, which is close to the 28318 area. It offers essential services and plays a vital role in providing local healthcare.

**Bladen County Hospital: CMS Star Rating and Performance**

Bladen County Hospital also has a CMS star rating. This rating reflects its performance based on the same criteria as other hospitals.

**ER Performance at Bladen County Hospital**

ER wait times at Bladen County Hospital are an important consideration for residents in the area. Information on median wait times is available through public sources. Shorter wait times are generally indicative of a more efficient emergency department.

**Specialty Centers at Bladen County Hospital**

Bladen County Hospital provides a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and primary care.

**Telehealth at Bladen County Hospital**

Bladen County Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues, offering convenient access to medical expertise. The availability of telehealth services contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Considerations for Overall Health**

While hospital performance is crucial, other factors contribute to overall health in the 28318 area. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services is essential. Access to preventative care, such as screenings and vaccinations, also plays a vital role.

**Community Health Initiatives**

The presence of community health initiatives, such as free clinics, health education programs, and support groups, can significantly impact the overall health of the community. These initiatives often address specific health needs and promote healthy behaviors.

**Access to Insurance**

The affordability and accessibility of health insurance are critical determinants of healthcare access. The percentage of insured residents in the area is a relevant factor.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Based on the available data, the hospitals near ZIP code 28318 offer a range of healthcare options. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, as the largest provider, offers a comprehensive array of services, but its performance metrics require careful consideration. Womack Army Medical Center provides specialized care, particularly for military personnel and their families, with some services available to the wider community. Bladen County Hospital serves a smaller community and provides essential services.

The overall health score is a nuanced assessment. CFVMC's CMS rating, combined with its ER wait times and specialty center offerings, provides a baseline. WAMC's performance metrics and specialized services contribute to the overall score. The availability of telehealth services across these facilities is a positive factor. Access to primary care physicians, specialists, and community health initiatives also influence the overall health landscape. Residents of the 28318 area should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences when choosing a healthcare provider.