28349, Kenansville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28349, Kenansville, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28349

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 28349, encompassing the Hope Mills, NC area, presents a diverse range of options, from large regional hospitals to smaller community clinics. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" of these facilities requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors like patient outcomes, access to care, specialized services, and technological integration. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview, incorporating data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Healthgrades, and hospital websites, while acknowledging the inherent limitations of publicly available information.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of healthcare in the region is Cape Fear Valley Health System, which includes Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, the largest hospital in the area. While CMS star ratings are a valuable indicator, it's important to understand their limitations. The most recent data available shows Cape Fear Valley Medical Center with a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects performance across several domains, including mortality, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, effectiveness of care, timeliness of care, and efficient use of medical imaging. This rating suggests areas for improvement, particularly in patient experience and certain clinical outcomes, while also highlighting strengths in other areas.

Another key player is Womack Army Medical Center, located on Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). As a military hospital, Womack operates under a different regulatory framework than civilian hospitals. While CMS star ratings aren't directly applicable, Womack's performance is evaluated through the Department of Defense's healthcare system. Womack provides comprehensive services to military personnel, their families, and eligible veterans, including a wide array of specialty services. Access to care at Womack is primarily determined by military eligibility and referral processes.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Access to Care:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. While precise, real-time data can fluctuate, publicly available information provides a general understanding. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER wait times are often reported on websites like Healthgrades, but it's essential to recognize that these are averages and can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and patient volume. Shorter wait times generally indicate better efficiency and resource allocation within the ER.

The availability of urgent care clinics in the area also impacts overall access. Several urgent care facilities operate near ZIP code 28349, offering an alternative for non-life-threatening conditions. These clinics typically have shorter wait times than hospital ERs and provide convenient access to care for common illnesses and injuries.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical services is a key component of a robust healthcare system. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. These include a heart and vascular center, a cancer center, a women's health center, and a comprehensive stroke center. The presence of these specialized facilities reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for advanced care.

Womack Army Medical Center also offers a wide array of specialty services, tailored to the needs of the military population. These include specialized clinics for various medical conditions, as well as surgical and rehabilitation services.

The presence of specialized services like these is a significant advantage for residents near ZIP code 28349, ensuring access to advanced medical care within a reasonable distance.

**Telehealth and Technological Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in recent years. Cape Fear Valley Health System has invested in telehealth services, providing virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. These services can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth can also facilitate follow-up appointments and medication management.

The technological infrastructure of a hospital system is also a critical factor. Electronic health records (EHRs) are essential for efficient patient care, allowing for seamless information sharing between providers. The adoption of advanced imaging technologies and minimally invasive surgical techniques also contributes to improved patient outcomes.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction:**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. CMS collects data on patient satisfaction through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. These surveys assess various aspects of the patient experience, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, pain management, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment.

Online patient reviews and ratings, while subjective, can provide additional insights into patient experiences. Websites like Healthgrades and Google Reviews offer platforms for patients to share their experiences, providing valuable feedback on individual providers and hospital services.

**Community Health and Preventive Care:**

Beyond hospital-based care, the overall health of a community is influenced by factors like access to primary care physicians, preventive services, and public health initiatives. The availability of primary care providers in the area is essential for managing chronic conditions and providing preventive care.

Community health programs, such as those offered by local health departments and non-profit organizations, play a vital role in promoting wellness and addressing health disparities. These programs often focus on areas like health education, disease prevention, and access to resources for vulnerable populations.

**Considerations for Specific Needs:**

Individuals with specific healthcare needs should carefully consider the available options. For example, patients with heart conditions should research the expertise and outcomes of the heart and vascular centers. Cancer patients should investigate the resources and services offered by cancer centers, including access to clinical trials and support groups. Expectant mothers should evaluate the maternity services and birthing options available at local hospitals.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 28349 offers a range of options, with Cape Fear Valley Medical Center as the primary regional hospital and Womack Army Medical Center serving a specific population. While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's CMS rating indicates areas for improvement, the presence of specialized services and telehealth options is a positive factor.

ER wait times, while variable, are a key consideration for access to care. The availability of urgent care clinics provides an alternative for non-emergency situations. Patient experience, as reflected in HCAHPS scores and online reviews, is a crucial factor to consider.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for the area is a complex assessment. It's a combination of factors. Residents are encouraged to research the specific needs and to consider the individual strengths and weaknesses of each facility. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and continuous monitoring of these factors is crucial for staying informed and advocating for improved healthcare services in the community.