28448, Kelly, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28448, Kelly, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Hampstead, NC (ZIP Code 28448)

The coastal region surrounding Hampstead, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28448) presents a unique healthcare landscape. Residents benefit from proximity to larger medical centers while also relying on a network of smaller, community-focused providers. This review offers an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing key aspects of healthcare accessibility, quality, and performance for those living in and around this area. The assessment considers factors like hospital ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, telehealth availability, and overall patient experience.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Cornerstone of Care**

The primary healthcare hubs for residents near 28448 are located in Wilmington, a short drive south. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), now part of Novant Health, stands as a significant presence. NHRMC holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's performance across several key areas, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of care that meets national standards.

Another major player in the region is Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, located in nearby Bolivia. While not directly in the 28448 zip code, it serves as a crucial resource for residents. Brunswick Medical Center also boasts a 3-star CMS rating, offering a similar level of care as NHRMC. These ratings, while a useful indicator, should be considered alongside other factors, such as personal experiences and specific healthcare needs.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility. Data indicates that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the specific hospital. Generally, NHRMC tends to have moderate wait times, often fluctuating between 30 minutes to an hour, based on publicly available data. Brunswick Medical Center generally reports similar wait times. However, these are averages, and individual experiences may differ. Patients should be prepared for potential fluctuations and consider factors like the severity of their condition when deciding where to seek emergency care. Local urgent care clinics can also be a viable option for less critical needs, often boasting shorter wait times.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Expertise**

The availability of specialized medical services is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. NHRMC offers a comprehensive range of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. The hospital's Heart Center provides advanced cardiac care, including interventional procedures and cardiac rehabilitation. The Zimmer Cancer Institute offers comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The Orthopedic Center provides specialized care for musculoskeletal conditions, including joint replacements and sports medicine. The Women's Health Center offers a range of services, including obstetrics, gynecology, and breast health.

Brunswick Medical Center also provides access to several specialty services, though its scope is generally smaller than NHRMC. It offers services in areas like cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. Patients requiring highly specialized care may need to travel to NHRMC or other regional medical centers.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially in areas with dispersed populations. Both NHRMC and Novant Health offer telehealth options, providing patients with virtual access to physicians and specialists. These services include virtual visits for primary care, follow-up appointments, and specialist consultations. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for residents in 28448, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telehealth services is continuously expanding, with new specialties and services being added regularly. Patients should check with their providers to determine the specific telehealth options available to them.

**Patient Experience: A Subjective but Important Factor**

Patient experience is a critical component of overall healthcare quality. While subjective, patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Both NHRMC and Brunswick Medical Center participate in patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS). These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, and the cleanliness of the hospital environment. Patient reviews and testimonials, available online, can offer additional insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Other Healthcare Providers in the Area**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, residents of 28448 have access to a network of other healthcare providers. Several urgent care clinics are located in the area, offering convenient access to care for non-life-threatening conditions. Primary care physicians and specialists are also available, providing ongoing care and management of chronic conditions. The availability of these providers helps to ensure that residents have access to a comprehensive range of healthcare services.

**Considerations for Seniors and Veterans**

The Hampstead area has a significant population of seniors and veterans, who may have specific healthcare needs. Both NHRMC and Brunswick Medical Center provide specialized services for seniors, including geriatric care and rehabilitation services. The area also has access to Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare facilities, providing specialized care and support for veterans. Veterans should contact the VA to determine their eligibility for services and access to care.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for residents of 28448 can be characterized as **"Good, with Considerations."**

* **Strengths:** Proximity to major hospitals with a range of specialty services, the growing availability of telehealth options, and a network of other healthcare providers.
* **Weaknesses:** Moderate ER wait times, the need to travel to Wilmington for some highly specialized care, and the 3-star CMS ratings of the primary hospitals, indicating areas for potential improvement.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research and Plan:** Residents should proactively research healthcare providers, understand their insurance coverage, and plan for potential healthcare needs.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Embrace telehealth options for convenient access to care and follow-up appointments.
* **Consider Urgent Care:** Utilize urgent care clinics for non-emergency conditions to potentially reduce wait times.
* **Stay Informed:** Stay informed about hospital performance metrics, patient satisfaction scores, and any changes in healthcare services.
* **Communicate Effectively:** Communicate openly with healthcare providers about their needs and concerns.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape near 28448 offers a solid foundation of care, with access to major hospitals, a growing range of specialty services, and telehealth options. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding CMS ratings and potential wait times, residents have access to a reasonable level of care. By proactively researching their options, utilizing available resources, and communicating effectively with their healthcare providers, residents of 28448 can navigate the healthcare system and maintain their overall health and well-being. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and residents should stay informed about the latest developments to make informed decisions about their care.