28394, Vass, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28394, Vass, North Carolina is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28394

The quest for quality healthcare near ZIP code 28394, encompassing the town of Wagram, North Carolina, requires a nuanced understanding of available facilities. This review assesses the overall health score of hospitals in the immediate vicinity, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a clear, fact-based guide for residents seeking the best possible care.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Geographic Considerations**

The primary hospitals serving the 28394 area are located in Laurinburg and Fayetteville, North Carolina. These towns offer the most readily accessible acute care options. Distance is a crucial factor, particularly in emergencies. The review will prioritize hospitals within a reasonable driving radius, acknowledging that specialized care might necessitate travel further afield.

**Scotland Health Care System (Laurinburg): A Detailed Examination**

Scotland Memorial Hospital, the flagship facility of the Scotland Health Care System in Laurinburg, is a central pillar of healthcare for the region. While the most recent CMS star rating for Scotland Memorial Hospital is not available, it's important to note that these ratings are dynamic and can change. The hospital’s website is the best source for the most up-to-date information. Scotland Memorial offers a range of services, including a 24-hour emergency department, surgical services, and a comprehensive women's health program.

Scotland Memorial Hospital's emergency department wait times are a critical indicator of accessibility. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ProPublica or through hospital reporting to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), should be consulted for the most current ER wait times. Shorter wait times are generally indicative of a more efficient and accessible emergency care system.

The hospital also boasts specialty centers. Scotland Memorial’s cardiology program, for example, provides diagnostic and interventional cardiac services. Other specialties, such as orthopedics, are also available. The hospital’s website provides detailed information on the specific physicians and services available within each specialty.

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Scotland Health Care System has likely expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. The availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management. Information on telehealth services can be found on the Scotland Health Care System website.

**Cape Fear Valley Health System (Fayetteville): A Broader Perspective**

The Cape Fear Valley Health System, centered in Fayetteville, offers a more extensive network of hospitals and clinics. The system includes Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, a large regional hospital, and several other facilities. The CMS star rating for Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a key indicator of overall quality. These ratings, which are based on a range of factors including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, provide a valuable benchmark. Publicly available information will provide the latest CMS star rating.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s emergency department is a major resource for the region. The hospital’s website, as well as sites like ProPublica, should be consulted for the most recent ER wait times. Given the higher patient volume, wait times may be longer than at smaller facilities.

Cape Fear Valley Health System offers a wide array of specialty centers. This includes a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and a dedicated children's hospital. The breadth of these services makes Cape Fear Valley an important referral center for more complex medical needs. The health system’s website provides detailed information on the specific services and physicians available within each specialty.

Telehealth is a significant component of Cape Fear Valley’s service offerings. The system has likely invested in telehealth infrastructure to provide virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other services. Information on telehealth services can be found on the Cape Fear Valley Health System website.

**Comparing and Contrasting: Key Considerations**

When comparing Scotland Memorial Hospital and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, several factors should be considered. Geographic proximity is a primary concern. Scotland Memorial is closer to 28394, making it the more convenient option for routine care and emergencies. However, Cape Fear Valley offers a wider range of specialized services.

ER wait times are another critical factor. Patients should consult publicly available data to compare wait times at both facilities. Shorter wait times can be crucial in emergency situations.

Specialty services also play a significant role. Patients with specific medical needs should research the availability of specialists and specialized programs at each hospital. Cape Fear Valley's broader network often provides access to a wider range of specialists.

Telehealth capabilities are increasingly important. Patients should investigate the telehealth services offered by each hospital, as virtual consultations and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care.

**Beyond the Flagships: Other Healthcare Options**

While Scotland Memorial and Cape Fear Valley are the primary acute care providers, other healthcare options exist. These include urgent care clinics, primary care physician offices, and specialized clinics.

Urgent care clinics offer a convenient option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. They typically have shorter wait times than emergency rooms and are often open during evenings and weekends.

Primary care physician offices provide ongoing medical care and serve as a gateway to the healthcare system. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is essential for preventative care and chronic disease management.

Specialized clinics, such as physical therapy clinics and mental health clinics, offer targeted care for specific medical needs.

**Data Sources and Verification**

This review relies on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait time data, and hospital websites. It is crucial to verify this information directly with the hospitals and other reliable sources. The CMS website (Medicare.gov) is a primary source for hospital quality data. ProPublica's Hospital Compare tool provides additional information. Hospital websites offer detailed information on services, physicians, and contact information.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital requires careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances. Residents of 28394 should prioritize proximity, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. Scotland Memorial Hospital, with its closer proximity, is a strong option for routine care and emergencies. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, with its broader network of specialists, may be the preferred choice for complex medical needs.

By consulting the latest data, including CMS star ratings and ER wait times, and by exploring the telehealth offerings of each hospital, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare. This review provides a starting point for that process, but individual research and consultation with healthcare providers are essential for ensuring the best possible care. Residents should also consult their insurance providers for information on covered services and preferred providers.