28524, Davis, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28524, Davis, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28524 (Jacksonville, NC)

Navigating healthcare choices can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28524) area, focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. The assessment incorporates data on quality, accessibility, and specialized services, aiming for a comprehensive picture of each facility's strengths and weaknesses.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The primary hospitals serving the 28524 ZIP code are located in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. These facilities cater to a diverse population, including military personnel and their families from nearby Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. The region's healthcare needs are shaped by this unique demographic, as well as the general health concerns of the broader community.

**Key Metrics for Evaluation**

This review considers several critical factors in determining an "Overall Health Score." These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on performance across various quality measures. These ratings provide a readily understandable benchmark for overall quality.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** Timely access to emergency care is crucial. ER wait times are a significant indicator of a hospital's ability to manage patient flow and provide prompt treatment.
* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, reflects a hospital's ability to address complex medical needs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services have become increasingly important, offering convenient access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission signifies adherence to rigorous quality standards. Specific certifications for specialized programs, such as stroke centers, are also considered.
* **Patient Satisfaction Scores:** Patient feedback provides valuable insights into the overall patient experience, including communication, responsiveness, and care coordination.

**Specific Hospital Assessments**

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, NC)**

Onslow Memorial Hospital is the primary hospital within the city of Jacksonville. It is a non-profit, community-owned facility serving the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Onslow Memorial Hospital currently holds a **3-star rating** from CMS. This indicates average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide.
* **ER Wait Times:** Publicly available data on ER wait times varies, but generally, Onslow Memorial strives to maintain wait times within a reasonable range. It is advisable to check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other online resources, as they fluctuate.
* **Specialty Centers:** Onslow Memorial offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and a cancer center. The hospital has a dedicated Women's Health Center.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Onslow Memorial Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. The availability of specific telehealth services may vary depending on the specialty and patient needs.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Onslow Memorial Hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission. The hospital also holds certifications for specific programs, such as its stroke center.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores at Onslow Memorial Hospital are generally in line with national averages. Specific scores can be found on the hospital's website or through the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**CarolinaEast Medical Center (New Bern, NC)**

Located approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville, CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern is a regional medical center that serves as a referral center for patients in the surrounding areas.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CarolinaEast Medical Center has a **3-star rating** from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CarolinaEast Medical Center can vary, and it is recommended to check real-time wait times online or by phone.
* **Specialty Centers:** CarolinaEast Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of specialty services, including cardiology, oncology, and a comprehensive stroke center.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** CarolinaEast Medical Center has invested in telehealth technology, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** CarolinaEast Medical Center is accredited by The Joint Commission. The hospital has several certifications for specialized programs, including its stroke center and cardiac care services.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores at CarolinaEast Medical Center are generally comparable to national benchmarks. Specific scores are available on the hospital's website and through CMS resources.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC)**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville (approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville), is a large regional medical center and the flagship hospital for Vidant Health. It is a Level I Trauma Center, offering a high level of specialized care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center currently holds a **2-star rating** from CMS. This rating reflects areas for improvement in certain quality metrics.
* **ER Wait Times:** As a Level I Trauma Center, Vidant Medical Center often experiences higher patient volumes, which can impact ER wait times. Real-time wait times are available online and through the hospital's website.
* **Specialty Centers:** Vidant Medical Center offers a wide array of specialty services, including advanced cardiology, comprehensive cancer care, and specialized surgical programs. It is a major referral center for the region.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Vidant Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services across various specialties.
* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Vidant Medical Center is accredited by The Joint Commission. The hospital holds numerous certifications for specialized programs, including trauma care, stroke care, and cardiac care.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores at Vidant Medical Center vary depending on the department and service. Specific scores can be found on the hospital's website and through CMS resources.

**Other Considerations**

* **Military Healthcare:** Active-duty military personnel and their families often have access to healthcare through Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune, which offers a range of services. The availability of specific services and wait times at Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune should be considered as an option.
* **Proximity and Travel Time:** When choosing a hospital, consider the distance and travel time, especially in emergencies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your personal preferences, such as the hospital's culture, amenities, and the availability of specific providers.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

Based on the available data, here's a general assessment of the hospitals serving the 28524 area:

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** Offers a good level of care within the community, with a 3-star CMS rating. Its proximity and focus on local needs make it a convenient option for many residents.
* **CarolinaEast Medical Center:** Provides a broader range of services, including specialized care, but is further away. Its 3-star rating indicates similar quality to Onslow Memorial.
* **Vidant Medical Center:** As a Level I Trauma Center and regional referral center, Vidant Medical Center offers the most comprehensive and specialized care. Its 2-star CMS rating suggests areas for improvement, but its resources and expertise remain a significant asset.

**Recommendations**

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 28524 is a relative assessment. The best choice depends on individual needs and circumstances.

* For routine care and less complex medical needs, Onslow Memorial Hospital is a convenient and accessible option.
* For specialized care and more complex medical conditions, CarolinaEast Medical Center and Vidant Medical Center are viable options, though they require travel.
* Consider Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune if you are eligible for military healthcare.
* Always verify insurance coverage and check real-time ER wait times before seeking care.
* Consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.

This review provides a starting point for making informed healthcare decisions. It is essential to conduct your own research and consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital. Healthcare information is constantly evolving, so it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information and guidance.