28508, Albertson, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28508, Albertson, North Carolina is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28508

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. For residents near ZIP code 28508, which encompasses much of Jacksonville, North Carolina, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of local hospitals is crucial. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" based on publicly available data, focusing on key indicators like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities. This information aims to empower informed healthcare decisions.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Considerations**

The primary healthcare providers serving 28508 are primarily focused on the city of Jacksonville. The area is home to a significant military population, influencing the types of services and the demand for care. The primary hospitals to consider are:

* **Naval Hospital Jacksonville (NHJ):** While technically located in Jacksonville, it primarily serves active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees.
* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** A community hospital serving the general population of Onslow County.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a readily accessible overview of quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** CMS currently rates Onslow Memorial Hospital with a 3-star rating. This rating indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. While not the highest possible rating, it suggests a baseline level of quality. It's important to remember that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle and should be considered alongside other factors.

**Emergency Room Performance: Time is of the Essence**

ER wait times are a critical indicator of a hospital's ability to provide timely care. Long wait times can lead to increased patient anxiety and potentially worsen health outcomes. Unfortunately, precise, real-time ER wait times are not always readily available for all hospitals. However, data from sources like Medicare.gov and Healthgrades can offer some insights.

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** While specific, current wait times fluctuate, it's essential to check the hospital's website or use online tools like those provided by Healthgrades for the most up-to-date information.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Focus**

The availability of specialized services is a key factor in assessing a hospital's capabilities. Residents may need access to cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and other specialized areas.

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women's health. They have a dedicated cancer center providing comprehensive cancer care. They also have a robust surgical program, including minimally invasive procedures.

**Telehealth: Healthcare at Your Fingertips**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for convenience and access to specialists. It allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits.

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Has been expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits for certain specialties. This can be a significant advantage for patients who live in more rural areas or have difficulty traveling.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Patient experience encompasses how patients perceive their care, including communication, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction. Patient satisfaction scores, often gathered through surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide insights into this aspect.

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Patient experience scores can vary, and it's essential to review the most recent HCAHPS data available on the CMS website. These scores provide valuable feedback on patient satisfaction with various aspects of their care.

**Considerations for Military Families**

For military families in the 28508 area, access to care is often dictated by TRICARE, the military's healthcare program. NHJ is the primary provider for active-duty personnel, their families, and retirees. However, depending on the specific TRICARE plan, patients may also have access to civilian hospitals like Onslow Memorial.

**Beyond the Basics: Additional Factors to Consider**

Beyond the core metrics, several other factors can influence a hospital's overall quality:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare signifies adherence to specific quality standards.
* **Technology:** The use of advanced medical technology, such as robotic surgery systems or advanced imaging equipment, can impact the quality of care.
* **Community Outreach:** Hospitals that actively engage in community outreach programs, such as health screenings or educational initiatives, demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of the community.
* **Physician Quality:** The qualifications and experience of the medical staff are crucial. Researching the credentials and experience of physicians is recommended.

**Overall Health Score: A Summary**

Based on the available data, here’s an assessment of the hospitals serving the 28508 area:

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Represents the primary option for the general population in the area. The 3-star CMS rating suggests average performance. The availability of specialty services and telehealth capabilities are positive aspects. ER wait times should be carefully monitored.

**Recommendations for 28508 Residents**

1. **Research and Compare:** Don't rely solely on one source of information. Compare data from multiple sources, including CMS, Healthgrades, and the hospitals' own websites.
2. **Consider Your Needs:** Evaluate your individual healthcare needs and choose a hospital that offers the services you require.
3. **Check ER Wait Times:** If you need emergency care, check current ER wait times if possible.
4. **Explore Telehealth Options:** Take advantage of telehealth services for convenient and accessible care.
5. **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask questions about a hospital's services, quality, and patient experience.
6. **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health needs.
7. **For Military Personnel:** Understand your TRICARE plan and the healthcare options available to you.

This review provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape near 28508. The "Overall Health Score" is not a definitive ranking but rather a framework for informed decision-making. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, residents can make informed choices about their healthcare needs. Remember that healthcare is dynamic, and it's essential to stay updated on changes in services, ratings, and wait times.