28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28387, Southern Pines, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28387

The healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 28387, encompassing the town of Raeford, North Carolina, presents a tapestry of options, from large regional medical centers to smaller community hospitals and specialized clinics. Assessing the "Overall Health Score" requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors like hospital quality, accessibility, specialized services, and the availability of telehealth options. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview, focusing on key players and their performance metrics.

**The Flagship: Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville)**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, located in Fayetteville, is the dominant healthcare provider in the region and a critical hub for residents near 28387. It's a large, regional medical center with a broad range of services. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Cape Fear Valley Medical Center holds a **3-star rating**. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and timely and effective care. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's essential to delve deeper than the overall score.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center boasts specialized centers, including a comprehensive heart and vascular program, a dedicated cancer center, and a robust women's health program. They have a Level II Trauma Center, a critical asset for handling severe injuries and emergencies. The hospital also has a significant presence in telehealth, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring for certain conditions. However, specific telehealth utilization statistics are not readily available to the public.

**Emergency Room Dynamics:**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility and efficiency. While precise, real-time ER wait times fluctuate constantly, it's possible to get a sense of average wait times. Resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and third-party platforms can provide estimated wait times, which can vary significantly depending on the day of the week and the time of day. It's advisable to check these sources before heading to the ER.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Providers in the Region:**

While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center serves as the primary regional hospital, residents near 28387 have other options.

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst):**

Located further south, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst is another major player in the regional healthcare system. It is a highly regarded hospital, and its CMS star rating is generally higher than Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer care. FirstHealth is known for its commitment to patient experience and community outreach.

**Smaller Community Hospitals and Clinics:**

The area also benefits from smaller community hospitals and clinics that provide essential primary care and specialized services. These facilities often offer a more personalized approach to care and can be more accessible for routine appointments and non-emergency situations.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Beyond general hospitals, the region features specialized centers catering to specific medical needs. These include:

* **Cardiology:** Both Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital have well-established cardiology programs, offering advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures and heart surgery.
* **Oncology:** The Cape Fear Valley Health System has a dedicated cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. FirstHealth also offers robust cancer care services.
* **Orthopedics:** Orthopedic care is available at both major hospitals, providing treatment for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.
* **Women's Health:** Both hospitals offer comprehensive women's health services, including obstetrics, gynecology, and specialized care for women's health issues.

**Telehealth and Digital Health Integration:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Both Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital have invested in telehealth infrastructure, offering virtual visits, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. While specific utilization statistics may not be publicly available, it's safe to assume that telehealth services are growing in popularity and availability. Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from medical facilities or have mobility limitations.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating healthcare options. Residents of Raeford and surrounding areas may face transportation challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles. Public transportation options are limited in this area. Proximity to hospitals and clinics is a significant factor, and the availability of transportation services, such as ride-sharing programs or hospital-provided transportation, can improve accessibility.

**Insurance and Affordability:**

The affordability of healthcare is a major concern for many individuals. The acceptance of various insurance plans by hospitals and providers is a crucial factor. Checking the insurance coverage of each healthcare provider is essential. The availability of financial assistance programs and payment plans can also impact the overall affordability of care.

**Quality Indicators and Patient Experience:**

Beyond CMS star ratings, other quality indicators provide valuable insights. These include:

* **Patient Satisfaction Scores:** Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), offer valuable feedback on patient experiences.
* **Readmission Rates:** Lower readmission rates generally indicate better quality of care.
* **Infection Rates:** Hospitals strive to minimize hospital-acquired infections.
* **Mortality Rates:** Mortality rates are a critical measure of hospital performance, reflecting the effectiveness of care.

**Community Health Needs Assessments:**

Local health departments and hospitals often conduct community health needs assessments to identify the most pressing health concerns in the area. These assessments can highlight specific health challenges and inform the development of targeted healthcare programs and services.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 28387 is influenced by a variety of factors. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, with its Level II Trauma Center and specialized services, serves as a major regional hub. FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital provides another strong option. Smaller community hospitals and clinics add to the network of care. While the CMS rating for Cape Fear Valley is average, it's important to consider the hospital's specialized services and its role as a regional provider. ER wait times should be checked before seeking emergency care. The availability of telehealth services is growing, and accessibility, insurance coverage, and affordability are crucial considerations. Residents should research their options, compare providers, and consider their individual healthcare needs when making decisions about their care.