28334, Dunn, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28334, Dunn, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28334

Finding the right healthcare in the vicinity of ZIP code 28334, which encompasses much of the Fort Bragg and Spring Lake areas of North Carolina, requires a nuanced understanding of available resources. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors from hospital quality and emergency room wait times to specialty centers and telehealth capabilities. Due to the proximity of military personnel and their families, access to care, quality of service, and specific needs are paramount considerations.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The healthcare landscape near 28334 is significantly shaped by the presence of Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC), the primary healthcare provider for active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees in the region. WAMC is a large, complex facility offering a wide range of services. However, it is not rated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in the same way as civilian hospitals. CMS star ratings are based on patient experience, safety of care, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. While WAMC adheres to rigorous standards, its operational structure and patient population differ significantly from civilian hospitals, making direct comparisons challenging.

For civilian healthcare needs, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville is a major player. It is a large, regional hospital offering a comprehensive suite of services. Cape Fear Valley has a CMS star rating, allowing for comparison against other hospitals nationally. The CMS star rating provides a snapshot of overall hospital quality, but should be considered alongside other factors.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in assessing healthcare access. Longer wait times can indicate overcrowding, staffing shortages, or other systemic issues. Data on ER wait times is often publicly available, though it can vary based on the source and methodology. WAMC, as a military facility, has its own internal ER wait time metrics. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center also reports its ER wait times. It is important to note that ER wait times are dynamic and can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of cases.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is crucial for comprehensive healthcare. Both WAMC and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center provide a range of specialty services. WAMC boasts a robust network of specialists catering to the unique needs of the military population, including specialized care for combat-related injuries and mental health services.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers various specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, and women's health services. The presence of these centers reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care. The quality of these centers can be evaluated by looking at accreditations, physician expertise, and patient outcomes.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially in areas with a large population of military personnel who may be deployed or have mobility challenges. Telehealth services allow patients to access healthcare remotely, improving access to care and convenience. WAMC has a well-developed telehealth program, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center also offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists. The availability of telehealth options can be a significant advantage for patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments. The effectiveness of telehealth programs depends on factors like technology infrastructure, physician training, and patient access to technology.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the major hospitals, the healthcare landscape near 28334 includes a network of outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty practices. These facilities provide additional access to care and can help alleviate the burden on the larger hospitals. The quality of these facilities can vary, so it is important to research their credentials and patient reviews.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The healthcare environment near 28334 presents a complex picture. WAMC serves as the primary healthcare provider for the military population, offering a wide range of services tailored to their specific needs. While CMS star ratings are not directly applicable to WAMC, it is a well-resourced facility with a dedicated staff.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center provides a vital civilian healthcare option. The hospital’s CMS star rating provides a benchmark for quality, and its specialty centers offer access to advanced medical care. The availability of both hospitals ensures a degree of redundancy and choice for residents in the area.

Emergency room wait times are a key consideration. Patients should be aware of the potential for longer wait times, particularly during peak hours. The availability of urgent care centers can provide an alternative for less serious conditions.

Telehealth capabilities are a significant asset, particularly for military families. Both WAMC and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offer telehealth services, improving access to care and convenience.

**Specific Recommendations:**

* **Military Personnel and Families:** Begin by understanding your healthcare options through WAMC. Familiarize yourself with the services offered and the referral process.
* **Civilians:** Research Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and other local hospitals. Check CMS star ratings and compare ER wait times.
* **Everyone:** Consider telehealth options for routine appointments and follow-up care. Research local urgent care centers for non-emergency medical needs.
* **Consider Insurance:** Ensure your insurance plan covers the facilities and services you need.

**Disclaimer:**

This "Overall Health Score" review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Healthcare needs are highly individual. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and information may change.