28581, Stacy, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28581, Stacy, North Carolina is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Swansboro, NC (ZIP Code 28581)

Navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming, especially when facing a medical need. This review provides a comprehensive overview of hospitals serving the Swansboro, North Carolina (28581) area, offering an "Overall Health Score" based on publicly available data and key performance indicators. This score considers factors like patient safety, quality of care, access, and patient experience. Remember, this is a snapshot based on available information and should not replace personalized medical advice. Always consult with your physician for specific healthcare needs.

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

The primary hospitals serving the Swansboro area are concentrated in Jacksonville and Morehead City, offering a range of services. Proximity and travel time are critical considerations for residents in this coastal region, impacting access to emergency care and specialized treatments. The closest major medical centers are a drive away, influencing the overall healthcare landscape.

**Navigating the Ratings: CMS Star Ratings and What They Mean**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a readily accessible measure of overall quality. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. It's a starting point for understanding a hospital's performance, but it's essential to delve deeper than just the star rating.

**CarolinaEast Medical Center (New Bern, NC): A Regional Hub**

While not directly in Swansboro, CarolinaEast Medical Center in New Bern is a significant regional hospital, approximately an hour's drive away. CarolinaEast has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating reflects a mixed performance across various quality metrics.

CarolinaEast offers a comprehensive range of services, including a Level II Trauma Center, a heart center, and a cancer center. The hospital has a strong focus on cardiac care, with a dedicated cardiology department and interventional cardiology services. They also have a well-regarded obstetrics and gynecology department.

Telehealth services are available, expanding access to specialists and follow-up care, particularly beneficial for residents in more rural areas. Telehealth utilization rates are a key indicator of accessibility and patient convenience. The hospital's website provides details on available telehealth options.

ER wait times at CarolinaEast fluctuate, but generally, patients can expect to wait between 30 minutes to an hour, according to publicly available data. This is a crucial factor, especially in emergency situations.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital (Jacksonville, NC): The Local Option**

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located in Jacksonville, is a closer option for Swansboro residents, making it a more accessible choice for many. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Onslow Memorial provides a range of services, including a surgical center, a women's center, and a rehabilitation center. They also offer a comprehensive cancer program. The hospital is committed to community outreach and education, with various programs aimed at promoting health and wellness.

ER wait times at Onslow Memorial are generally in line with the regional average, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. This is a critical consideration for residents seeking immediate medical attention.

**Carteret Health Care (Morehead City, NC): Coastal Considerations**

Carteret Health Care in Morehead City is another significant regional hospital, offering services to the coastal communities. This hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Carteret Health Care provides a variety of services, including a cardiac center, a surgical center, and a women's center. The hospital has a strong focus on serving the needs of the coastal population, with specialized services for maritime-related injuries and illnesses.

ER wait times at Carteret Health Care are generally comparable to other regional hospitals, typically around 30 minutes to an hour.

**Specialty Centers: Accessing Specialized Care**

Access to specialized care is a critical component of overall health. The availability of specific specialty centers, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Both CarolinaEast and Onslow Memorial have established cardiology programs, offering interventional cardiology services and cardiac rehabilitation. Carteret Health Care also has a cardiac center.

Cancer care is available at CarolinaEast and Onslow Memorial, with dedicated oncology departments and access to chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Orthopedic services, including joint replacement and sports medicine, are available at both Onslow Memorial and CarolinaEast.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like the Swansboro region. Telehealth allows patients to access specialists, receive follow-up care, and manage chronic conditions remotely.

CarolinaEast has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. Onslow Memorial and Carteret Health Care also offer telehealth options, although the scope of these programs may vary. Check the hospital websites for specific details on available telehealth services.

**Patient Experience: Beyond the Numbers**

While CMS star ratings and wait times provide valuable data, patient experience is equally important. This includes factors like communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of the hospital, and the overall comfort of the environment.

Patient satisfaction surveys, such as those conducted by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide insights into patient experiences. These surveys assess aspects like communication, responsiveness, and pain management. Reviewing patient feedback on hospital websites and third-party platforms can provide a more nuanced understanding of the patient experience.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Indicator**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in emergency situations. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times in the region typically range from 30 minutes to an hour. However, these times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Access to Care: Considerations for the 28581 Area**

The Swansboro area's proximity to hospitals in Jacksonville and Morehead City offers reasonable access to care. However, residents may face longer travel times for specialized services or in emergencies. Transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles, are a factor.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Based on the available data, the hospitals serving the Swansboro area generally perform at a similar level, with CMS ratings of 3 stars. CarolinaEast, Onslow Memorial, and Carteret Health Care all offer a comprehensive range of services.

**Factors contributing to the "Overall Health Score" include:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** A baseline indicator of overall quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** A critical factor for emergency care.
* **Specialty Services:** Availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Expanding access to care, especially for rural populations.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction surveys and feedback.

**Recommendations:**

* **Research Specific Needs:** Before choosing a hospital, research the specific services needed.
* **Consider Proximity:** Factor in travel time, especially for emergencies.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Utilize telehealth services for convenience and access.
* **Review Patient Feedback:** Read patient reviews to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Consult with Your Physician:** Discuss healthcare needs and preferences with your primary care physician.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Healthcare information is constantly evolving, so it's essential to verify information with the hospitals directly.