28372, Pembroke, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28372, Pembroke, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28372 (Raeford, NC)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals in proximity to Raeford, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28372), focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower residents with data-driven insights for informed healthcare decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Raeford, NC, is situated in Hoke County, a region served by a network of hospitals and medical facilities. The primary hospitals considered in this review include those within a reasonable driving distance, factoring in accessibility for residents. Access to quality healthcare is crucial, and this review aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the available options.

**The Core Metric: CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings provide a readily accessible, public-facing assessment of hospital quality. These ratings, ranging from one to five stars, are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the sole determinant of quality, the CMS star rating offers a valuable starting point for evaluation.

**Cape Fear Valley Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Cape Fear Valley Health System, headquartered in Fayetteville, NC, is a significant player in the region. Several of its facilities are within a reasonable driving distance of Raeford and are therefore relevant to this assessment.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville):** This is the flagship hospital of the Cape Fear Valley Health System. It is a large, comprehensive facility offering a wide range of services. As of the latest available data, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center holds a CMS star rating, which reflects its performance across various quality measures. It’s important to note that these ratings can fluctuate, so checking the most current CMS data is always recommended. The hospital boasts a Level II Trauma Center, crucial for handling serious injuries and emergencies. It also houses specialized centers for cardiology, oncology, and women's health.

**Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital (Raeford):** Located directly within the ZIP Code 28372 area, Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital is a critical access hospital. Critical access hospitals are designated to provide essential healthcare services in rural communities. This hospital’s CMS star rating provides a snapshot of its performance. It offers a 24/7 emergency department and a range of inpatient and outpatient services, including diagnostic imaging and laboratory services. It is an important resource for the Raeford community, providing convenient access to care.

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

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for patients. Shorter wait times often correlate with better patient outcomes and a more positive experience. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, understanding average wait times provides valuable insight. Data sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms can offer estimated wait times, although these are subject to change.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville):** As a larger facility with a high volume of patients, wait times at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center may vary. Data from the hospital and public sources should be consulted for the most up-to-date information.

**Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital (Raeford):** As a smaller facility, Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital typically has shorter ER wait times than the larger regional hospitals. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking immediate care.

**Specialty Centers: Meeting Specific Needs**

The availability of specialized medical centers is crucial for comprehensive healthcare. These centers provide advanced care in specific areas, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville):** This hospital boasts a robust array of specialty centers. The Heart & Vascular Center offers advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures. The Cancer Center provides comprehensive oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The Orthopedic Center offers a range of treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.

**Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital (Raeford):** While not offering the same breadth of specialty services as the larger Fayetteville facility, Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital provides access to specialists through its network and partnerships. This allows residents of Raeford to receive specialized care without necessarily traveling long distances.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. They provide patients with remote access to healthcare professionals, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience.

**Cape Fear Valley Health System:** The Cape Fear Valley Health System has invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits for various specialties. This includes primary care, behavioral health, and specialty consultations. Telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for patients in Raeford, reducing travel burdens and improving access to specialists.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

While Cape Fear Valley facilities are the primary focus, other hospitals within a reasonable distance might be relevant depending on specific needs. These include:

* **FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst):** Located further south, this hospital offers comprehensive services and may be a viable option for some residents. It is important to check its CMS star rating and specialty offerings.

**Assessing Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" is a composite assessment, considering CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center availability, and telehealth capabilities.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville):** This hospital scores highly due to its comprehensive services, Level II Trauma Center, and extensive specialty centers. However, longer ER wait times may be a factor. Its investment in telehealth further enhances its score.

**Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital (Raeford):** This hospital provides a valuable service to the Raeford community. Its strength lies in its convenient location, shorter ER wait times, and access to specialist care through the Cape Fear Valley network.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst):** This hospital's score will depend on its current CMS star rating and the availability of specific services.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital:**

* **Specific Medical Needs:** Patients with specific medical conditions should prioritize hospitals with specialized centers that address their needs.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the distance and ease of access to the hospital.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are crucial in emergency situations.
* **Physician Preferences:** Patients may have existing relationships with physicians who practice at specific hospitals.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP Code 28372 offers a range of options. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville provides comprehensive services, while Cape Fear Valley Hoke Hospital in Raeford offers convenient access to care. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs, assess the available data, and make informed decisions about their healthcare. Regular updates on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth services are essential for staying informed about the evolving healthcare landscape. Consulting with your primary care physician is always recommended when making healthcare decisions.