28386, Shannon, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28386, Shannon, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28386

Finding the right hospital is crucial for maintaining good health. This review provides an in-depth look at healthcare options near ZIP code 28386, focusing on key factors like quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll examine flagship hospitals, their performance metrics, and the availability of telehealth options to help you make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape**

ZIP code 28386 primarily encompasses the town of Raeford, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas in Hoke County. The healthcare landscape here is largely influenced by proximity to larger cities like Fayetteville and Southern Pines, which offer a wider range of specialized services. Access to care can be affected by factors like rurality, transportation, and the availability of specialists.

**Flagship Hospitals and Performance Metrics**

The most prominent hospital serving the area is **Cape Fear Valley Medical Center** in Fayetteville, approximately a 30-minute drive from Raeford. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a large regional hospital and a major referral center. Its performance is closely watched.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center currently holds a **3-star rating** from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across several quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper into specific areas.

* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility and efficiency. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER wait times can fluctuate. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website provides up-to-date information. Patients should expect to wait, but understanding the average wait time can help manage expectations.

* **Specialty Centers:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. These include a Heart & Vascular Center, a comprehensive cancer center, a dedicated women's health center, and a robust surgical program. The hospital is equipped to handle complex medical cases and offers advanced treatments.

* **Telehealth Services:** Telehealth is increasingly important for accessing care, particularly in rural areas. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and access to behavioral health services. The availability of telehealth expands access to care and can reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Other Healthcare Options**

While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a primary resource, other healthcare facilities contribute to the overall health ecosystem near 28386.

* **FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital** in Pinehurst, approximately a 45-minute drive, is another significant healthcare provider. It is known for its high-quality care and has a strong reputation in the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital holds a **4-star rating** from CMS, indicating a higher level of overall performance compared to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.
* **Specialty Centers:** This hospital features a strong cardiology program, an advanced stroke center, and a comprehensive cancer center.
* **Telehealth Services:** FirstHealth also offers a range of telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

* **Smaller Clinics and Urgent Care Centers:** Several smaller clinics and urgent care centers are scattered throughout the area, offering primary care, walk-in services, and basic medical treatments. These facilities provide convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries.

**Analyzing Key Performance Indicators**

Beyond CMS star ratings, several other factors contribute to a hospital's overall health score.

* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction is a crucial indicator of quality. Hospitals are evaluated based on patient surveys regarding their experiences, including communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the facility.
* **Readmission Rates:** High readmission rates can indicate problems with care coordination or inadequate post-discharge support. Lower readmission rates are generally considered a positive sign.
* **Surgical Outcomes:** Hospitals are assessed on their surgical outcomes, including complication rates and mortality rates. These metrics are particularly important for patients undergoing complex procedures.
* **Infection Control:** Hospitals are expected to maintain strict infection control protocols to prevent the spread of infections. Rates of hospital-acquired infections are closely monitored.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth plays a vital role in expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Raeford. It allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving outcomes.

* **Benefits of Telehealth:** Telehealth offers several advantages, including convenience, reduced travel costs, and improved access to specialists. It can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions who require regular monitoring.
* **Types of Telehealth Services:** Telehealth services include virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals.
* **Considerations for Telehealth:** While telehealth offers many benefits, it's essential to consider factors like internet access, technical proficiency, and the limitations of virtual examinations.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility to healthcare is a critical concern, especially for residents in rural areas.

* **Transportation Challenges:** Limited public transportation options and long distances to hospitals can pose challenges for some patients.
* **Community Resources:** Local organizations and community health centers can provide transportation assistance and other support services.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial for accessing healthcare services.

**Specialized Care and Centers of Excellence**

The availability of specialized care is essential for treating complex medical conditions.

* **Cardiology:** Both Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital offer comprehensive cardiology services.
* **Oncology:** Both hospitals have dedicated cancer centers providing advanced treatments.
* **Stroke Care:** FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital has a designated stroke center.
* **Behavioral Health:** Access to behavioral health services is crucial. Both hospitals offer behavioral health programs.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital is a personal decision that should be based on individual needs and preferences.

* **Research and Comparison:** Researching hospitals, comparing their performance metrics, and considering your specific healthcare needs is essential.
* **Consultation with Your Doctor:** Consulting with your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and recommendations.
* **Consider Your Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital you choose is within your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Options**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 28386 offers a range of options, with Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital being the primary providers. While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center offers a broad spectrum of services, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital boasts a higher CMS star rating. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage when making healthcare decisions. Evaluating ER wait times, specialty center availability, and the extent of telehealth offerings will help in choosing the most appropriate healthcare provider. Staying informed and proactive in your healthcare choices is key to maintaining good health and well-being.