28368, Olivia, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28368, Olivia, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28368

Finding the right healthcare can be a daunting task. This review provides an overall health score assessment for hospitals near ZIP code 28368, focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions about your health. We'll delve into hospital quality, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in this area.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

ZIP code 28368 primarily covers the town of Raeford, North Carolina, and surrounding areas. The primary healthcare providers for this region are concentrated in nearby cities, particularly Fayetteville. Access to quality healthcare often involves considering facilities within a reasonable driving distance. This review will prioritize hospitals that are easily accessible from Raeford.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a valuable snapshot of overall quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While the CMS star rating is a useful tool, it's crucial to remember that it's just one piece of the puzzle.

One of the most prominent hospitals serving this region is **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center** in Fayetteville. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a large regional hospital and a major healthcare provider for the area. It's a designated Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a CMS star rating, which can fluctuate over time, so it's important to check the most recent data on the CMS website.

**Other Notable Hospitals:**

Beyond Cape Fear Valley, other hospitals within a reasonable distance of Raeford offer specialized services and contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem. **Womack Army Medical Center**, located at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg), is a significant healthcare provider. While primarily serving military personnel and their families, Womack may have limited availability for civilian patients depending on capacity and specific needs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of a hospital's ability to handle urgent medical needs. Longer wait times can be a sign of overcrowding or resource constraints. Data on ER wait times is often available through hospital websites, third-party healthcare information providers, or through the CMS. Comparing wait times across different hospitals in the area can help you make an informed decision when facing a medical emergency. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER wait times, like those of all hospitals, are subject to change based on patient volume and other factors. It is always best to call ahead to check.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise and Focused Care:**

Specialty centers provide focused expertise in specific medical areas. Access to these centers can be vital for patients with complex medical conditions.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center** boasts a range of specialty centers, including:

* **Heart & Vascular Center:** Offering comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.
* **Cancer Center:** Providing advanced cancer treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.
* **Neuroscience Center:** Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, including stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.
* **Orthopedic Center:** Focused on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including joint replacement, sports injuries, and spinal disorders.
* **Women's and Children's Services:** Offering a range of services, including obstetrics, gynecology, and pediatric care.

**Womack Army Medical Center** also offers specialized services, particularly in areas related to military medicine and veteran's health.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, through video conferencing or other digital platforms.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center** has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual appointments for certain specialties and follow-up care. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

**Womack Army Medical Center** also utilizes telehealth to provide care to its patients, especially those in remote locations.

**Other factors influencing overall health score:**

**Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. Hospitals often collect patient feedback through surveys, such as the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. These surveys provide insights into patient experiences, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital environment.

**Hospital Safety:** Hospital safety is paramount. Measures such as infection rates, medication errors, and surgical complications are critical indicators of a hospital's commitment to patient safety. CMS and other organizations track and report on these safety metrics.

**Community Health Needs Assessments:** Hospitals often conduct community health needs assessments to identify the most pressing health needs of the populations they serve. These assessments can provide valuable insights into the specific healthcare challenges faced by residents in the area.

**Financial Considerations:** The cost of healthcare is a significant factor for many patients. Understanding insurance coverage, hospital charges, and payment options is essential. Hospitals are required to provide price transparency information, and patients should research costs before receiving care.

**Specific Considerations for ZIP Code 28368:**

Raeford, NC, is a relatively rural area. Residents may face challenges in accessing healthcare due to geographic limitations. Telehealth services and convenient access to specialty centers are especially important for this population. Transportation limitations can also be a factor, so hospitals with accessible locations and robust transportation assistance programs can be particularly beneficial.

**Making Your Decision:**

Choosing a hospital is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research.

* **Consider your individual needs:** Do you have a specific medical condition that requires specialized care? Are you looking for a hospital with a particular reputation or expertise?
* **Assess your insurance coverage:** Ensure the hospital you choose is in your insurance network.
* **Research wait times:** Especially important if you anticipate needing emergency care.
* **Explore telehealth options:** Consider whether virtual appointments are a convenient option for your healthcare needs.
* **Read patient reviews:** Online reviews can provide valuable insights into patient experiences.
* **Talk to your primary care physician:** Your doctor can provide recommendations and help you navigate the healthcare system.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 28368 offers a range of options, with Cape Fear Valley Medical Center being a major regional provider. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review – CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and other factors – you can make an informed decision about the best healthcare options for your needs. Remember to stay informed, ask questions, and prioritize your health.