28589, Williston, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28589, Williston, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28589

The healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 28589, encompassing the area near Swansboro, North Carolina, presents a mixed bag of options for residents. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering factors like hospital quality, accessibility, specialized services, and telehealth availability, to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. While no single hospital dominates the region, a careful examination reveals strengths and weaknesses across the available facilities.

**Key Players and Their Performance:**

The primary hospital serving the area is **Carteret Health Care** in Morehead City, approximately 20 miles from Swansboro. This facility is the closest full-service hospital and a critical access point for emergency care and inpatient services. Carteret Health Care holds a **three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating, based on measures of patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, places it in the average range compared to other hospitals nationally. While not reaching the highest echelon, it provides a solid foundation of care for the community.

Further afield, residents may consider hospitals in Jacksonville, roughly 40 miles northwest. **Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**, while primarily serving military personnel and their families, also provides care to the general public on a space-available basis. NMCCL does not have a CMS star rating as it is a military facility. However, it offers a broad range of services, including specialized departments and access to military medical expertise. The availability of care at NMCCL for non-military individuals can vary, so it's essential to inquire about eligibility and access policies.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial consideration for any healthcare consumer. Unfortunately, publicly available data on ER wait times for specific hospitals in the immediate vicinity of 28589 is limited. However, national averages suggest that wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. It's wise to call ahead to the ER and inquire about current wait times, especially during peak hours. Carteret Health Care is the closest option, and its performance in this area is critical for residents.

**Specialized Services: Assessing Depth of Care:**

The availability of specialized services is another key indicator of a hospital's capabilities. Carteret Health Care offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. It also has a cancer center, providing comprehensive cancer care. While these services are essential for the community, residents with complex or rare medical conditions may need to travel further to access specialized expertise.

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune offers a broader array of specialized services, including advanced surgical procedures and access to military-specific medical expertise. However, access to these services for non-military patients is contingent on availability.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Carteret Health Care has embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring services. This allows patients to access healthcare professionals from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telehealth services can vary depending on the specialty and the patient's insurance coverage.

The military healthcare system, including NMCCL, has also expanded its telehealth capabilities. Military families and, where available, the general public can access virtual consultations and remote monitoring services.

**Other Important Considerations:**

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction is a critical indicator of hospital quality. CMS uses the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey to measure patient experiences. While specific HCAHPS scores for individual hospitals near 28589 may vary, the overall trend indicates that patient satisfaction levels are generally in line with national averages.

**Cost of Care:** The cost of healthcare is a significant concern for many individuals. The cost of care can vary significantly depending on the hospital, the services provided, and the patient's insurance coverage. It's essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses. Patients should also inquire about the hospital's financial assistance policies.

**Accessibility:** The geographic location of hospitals and the availability of transportation are crucial factors for residents of 28589. Carteret Health Care is the closest full-service hospital, making it the most accessible option for many residents. However, access to transportation can be a challenge for some individuals, particularly those with limited mobility or those living in more remote areas.

**Community Health Needs:** Hospitals are increasingly involved in addressing community health needs. Carteret Health Care participates in community health initiatives, focusing on issues like chronic disease management and preventative care. These efforts contribute to improving the overall health of the community.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 28589 presents a mixed picture. Carteret Health Care serves as the primary hospital, offering a range of services and a CMS three-star rating. While not a top-tier facility, it provides a solid foundation of care. The availability of specialized services and telehealth options enhances the healthcare options available to residents.

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune offers a broader range of specialized services, but access for non-military personnel can be limited.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize preventative care:** Regular checkups, screenings, and vaccinations are essential for maintaining good health.
* **Understand your insurance coverage:** Familiarize yourself with your insurance plan's benefits, including covered services, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
* **Research your options:** Before seeking care, research the available hospitals and their services. Consider factors like location, specialties offered, and patient satisfaction ratings.
* **Utilize telehealth:** Take advantage of telehealth options to access healthcare professionals remotely, especially for routine appointments and follow-up care.
* **Communicate with your healthcare providers:** Ask questions, express your concerns, and actively participate in your healthcare decisions.
* **Consider travel:** If you require specialized care not available locally, be prepared to travel to a larger medical center.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare options near ZIP code 28589 offer a reasonable level of care, with Carteret Health Care serving as the primary provider. Residents should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a healthcare provider. By understanding the available services, assessing the quality of care, and taking proactive steps to manage their health, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively and make informed decisions about their well-being. The overall health score for the area is "adequate," with room for improvement in certain areas, particularly in access to highly specialized care and ER wait times. Residents should continue to advocate for improvements in local healthcare services to ensure the best possible outcomes.