28360, Lumberton, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28360, Lumberton, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28360

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a medical need. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to ZIP code 28360 (Lumberton, North Carolina), focusing on key metrics like quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. This information is designed to help residents make informed choices about their healthcare options.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in and Around Lumberton**

Lumberton, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas are served by a network of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The primary considerations for this review include the proximity of facilities, the quality of care as reflected in official ratings, and the availability of specialized services that cater to diverse medical needs. Access to timely and efficient emergency care is also a paramount concern, as is the growing importance of telehealth options.

**Southeastern Regional Medical Center: The Flagship**

Southeastern Regional Medical Center (SRMC) in Lumberton is the most prominent hospital serving the 28360 area. As a flagship facility, it provides a broad spectrum of services and is often the first point of contact for medical emergencies. The hospital's performance, as measured by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is a key indicator of its overall quality. CMS star ratings, based on a range of quality measures, offer a readily understandable snapshot of a hospital's performance. Unfortunately, at the time of this review, SRMC's CMS star rating is unavailable. This lack of a star rating makes it difficult to assess the hospital's performance in comparison to others. This is something patients should investigate further by looking at patient satisfaction surveys and other quality indicators.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a significant factor in patient experience and a crucial indicator of a hospital's efficiency. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate constantly, it's important to consider the average wait times reported by hospitals. SRMC's ER typically handles a high volume of patients, and wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours. It is always advisable to call ahead or check online resources for the most current wait time information.

**Specialty Centers and Services at SRMC**

SRMC offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology, oncology, and surgical specialties. The hospital has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive treatment options for patients diagnosed with various forms of cancer. SRMC also offers a cardiac catheterization lab and a comprehensive heart program. The availability of these specialized services means that many patients can receive advanced care close to home, reducing the need for travel to larger medical centers.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Lumberton. SRMC has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings, providing patients with remote access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, allowing them to manage their health more effectively from the comfort of their homes. The availability and breadth of telehealth options are important considerations for patients seeking convenient and accessible healthcare.

**Other Hospitals in the Area: Exploring Alternatives**

While SRMC is the primary hospital in the immediate vicinity, residents of the 28360 area may also consider hospitals in nearby cities, such as Fayetteville or Laurinburg. These facilities may offer specialized services or have shorter wait times, depending on the specific medical need.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville): A Regional Option**

Located in Fayetteville, approximately 40 minutes from Lumberton, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a large regional medical center that offers a comprehensive range of services. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a CMS star rating, which provides a snapshot of its overall quality. The hospital has a Level II Trauma Center, a comprehensive stroke center, and a dedicated heart center. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center typically has a higher volume of patients than SRMC, so patients should be prepared for potential wait times in the ER.

**Scotland Memorial Hospital (Laurinburg): A Community Focus**

Scotland Memorial Hospital in Laurinburg is another option, located about 30 minutes from Lumberton. Scotland Memorial Hospital is a smaller community hospital that provides a range of services. The hospital's CMS star rating is a factor to consider when evaluating the quality of care. Scotland Memorial Hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. The hospital has a smaller emergency room than SRMC or Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, so wait times may be shorter.

**Comparing ER Wait Times: A Dynamic Picture**

ER wait times are a critical factor in evaluating hospital performance. While specific wait times fluctuate, comparing average wait times can provide valuable insights. Patients should be aware that ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the severity of the patient's condition. Data on ER wait times is often available on hospital websites or through online resources.

**Specialty Care: Matching Needs with Expertise**

The availability of specialized services is a key factor in choosing a hospital. Patients with specific medical needs, such as cancer treatment, cardiac care, or orthopedic surgery, should research which hospitals offer the most appropriate services. SRMC, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, and Scotland Memorial Hospital all offer specialized services, but the specific offerings and expertise may vary.

**Telehealth Integration: The Future of Healthcare**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Hospitals in the 28360 area are expanding their telehealth offerings, providing patients with access to remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services when choosing a hospital.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 28360 is a complex assessment that considers multiple factors. While SRMC is the primary hospital in the area, its lack of a current CMS star rating makes it difficult to assess its performance compared to other hospitals. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, with its CMS star rating, is a strong contender. Scotland Memorial Hospital, with its community focus, provides another option. Patients should weigh the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth offerings, to make informed decisions about their healthcare. The best hospital for each individual will depend on their specific needs and preferences. Researching each hospital's services, speaking with healthcare providers, and considering personal preferences are crucial steps in the decision-making process.